At the mention of medical alert systems, many people would automatically think that senior alarm systems were being referenced. Yes, seniors and the elderly are among the most dependent on these types of apparatuses. But alarm and alert systems serve other purposes too; coming in many shapes, sizes and varieties, including simple tags that convey medical conditions.

Medical IDs

Not too long ago, paramedics and other medical personnel treating a victim would occasionally have difficulty evaluating the problem. If the victim didnt display symptoms that led rescuers to at least a general idea of what the condition might be, then treatment had to be generalized until the victim could be more closely evaluated at a medical facility. And sometimes, by then it was too late.

For this reason, in the early 1960s, the American Medical Association (AMA) developed the medical identification bracelet. Today there are bracelets and necklaces available that display symbols or actual information indicating whether an individual has a medical condition.

In addition to necklaces and bracelets, there are also Universal Serial Bus (USB) flash drives. medical IDs. These mini hard drive devices can be easily connected to a computer via a USB port, allowing physicians to have instant access to a victim's medical records.

Home Alarm Systems

Home security alarms are the most popular type of alarm or alert system, and are becoming a standard feature in many new homes. The first home alarm systems were invented in the early 1900s and were difficult to install and maintain. These early alert devices were audible alarm systems, which meant police or rescuers had to actually hear the alarm to respond.

Today, alarm systems primarily run on electricity but will also operate on batteries in the event of a power failure. If the electrical current is broken or a sensor is tripped, the system will alert a monitoring station or law enforcement entity. Technology continues to evolve in this area, and many higher-end alarm systems can be customized to fit the desires of the homeowner.

Senior Medical Alert Systems

Elderly home alarm systems have become very popular in recent years. They enable older adults to live in their own homes for longer periods of time while offering family members and friends peace of mind. The older adult wears a medical alert bracelet or necklace featuring a button that can be pressed in the event of injury or illness. The button then sends a signal to a central unit located in the home, which alerts dispatchers at a monitoring station to contact a response team.

A newer senior medical response system may also have options such as fall sensors available. If an elderly person in fragile condition falls and is unable to reach the alert button, floor sensors will pick up the activity and automatically alert the monitoring station. If attempts by a dispatcher to contact the subject are unsuccessful, a response team is then contacted immediately.

These are just a few of the different types of alerts and alarms available for individual, residential and commercial use.The importance of these systems in the protection and preservation of lives and property cannot be emphasized enough in todays world.