A variety of scenarios can prevent you from living independently. These include natural causes such as old age and unexpected occurrences such as accidents, injuries and illnesses. You may need extra effort and time to complete tasks that were once taken for granted. You may also be vulnerable to medical emergencies that require immediate attention.
Individuals with such complex requirements have two choices. They may move to an assisted living facility, or they may subscribe to a medical alert system such as Lifealert that allows them live independently in their home or apartment.
Assisted Living
Assisted living facilities across United States offer long-term housing and personal care to seniors and individuals with disabilities. Support services commonly include meals, bathing, dressing, medication management, and transportation.
An assisted living facility will cost you close to $4,000 per month. A recent survey by Genworth Financial shows a 1.45 percent increase in monthly expenses between 2013 and 2014. You should, generally, expect a 4.25 percent increase in base price each year. Alaska and Delaware are the most expensive states for assisted living. Georgia and Missouri are the least expensive ones.
Your final cost will depend on the extent of care you require. Assisted living has other disadvantages as well. You will be required to leave your home and personal belongings which may hold a lot of sentimental value. You may have to share a room with another stranger. Assisted living facilities also have specific rules about various things and all the residents are required to follow them. This can be tough and overwhelming for many individuals.
Lifealert and Medical Alert Systems
Lifealert and other medical alarm systems offer a great alternative. Seniors can live in the comfort of their home while having access to emergency medical care at all times. They receive a base station with a help button. The system is connected to your phone landline. Many providers, like Bay Alarm Medical, Medical Guardian, Lifealert and Philips Lifeline also offer a detachable help button that can be worn around the neck or the wrist. Once you press the help button, the system establishes communication with the provider’s monitoring center. An agent analyzes your situation and procures the help you need.
Lifealert Cost Compares Well to Assisted Living Facilities
Medical alert systems are reasonably priced, especially when compared to assisted living facilities. You may pay $100 to $200 for the equipment, depending on the provider. Some companies offer equipment for free when you sign an annual contract. The monthly coverage charges range from $25 to $40. This will again depend on the provider with the Lifealert cost on the higher end. Annual and quarterly payment plans may lower your monthly charges. Additional features such as mobile monitoring, fire and smoke detection, medication monitoring, and GPS tracking cost extra.
Medical alerts allow seniors and individuals with disabilities to live in the comfort of their home. You are free to choose your schedule. You can eat whatever you want and sleep whenever you feel like. You also have your privacy. You can remain close to your friends and family members. You live in familiar surroundings and can remain active in the community as well.
Emergency medical alarm systems have revolutionized the way seniors and individuals with disabilities lead their lives. They can live life the way they want without worrying about medical emergencies. Their loved ones also have peace of mind knowing their parents have access to medical help at all times. Most medical alert system providers stay in touch with family members and give them regular updates about health and well-being of the patient.
Several studies have revealed that familiar surroundings play an important role in health and recovery of an individual patients recovering from chronic illnesses and injuries do better at home than at the hospital. Active and independent lifestyle is important for the well-being of seniors as well. When compared to assisted living facilities, systems like Life Alert allow seniors and individuals with disabilities to enjoy the best possible lifestyle at a highly affordable price.