Medical alert devices are valuable tools for seniors with mobility issues and chronic health conditions. These devices provide relief to seniors and their loved ones by offering reliable and timely support during emergencies. However, alert devices function differently according to their features and specifications. Therefore, you should get proper knowledge about the working and abilities of these devices. 

One of the most searched-after features for these devices is their range. Most devices work in all parts of a home and protect seniors within the boundary of their residence. However, there are concerns about the effectiveness of these devices outside homes. Read to know the detailed information about alert devices and their range outside homes. 

Medical Alert Devices and Their Range

The make and incorporated technology are two of the features that can influence the range of an alert device both inside and outside the premises. The most common types of these devices include:

In-Home Medical Alert Systems

In-home medical alert systems are designed specifically to work inside homes. They usually consist of a wearable device, a pendant or a wristband, and a base station. Based on their connectivity, these systems are further divided into the following: 

Landline-Based Systems

Using landline phones to work, these systems have a range between 600 and 1,500 feet from the base station. It enables them to work throughout the home, depending on the size of the home. It means you can move freely inside the home and the yard while staying connected with your alert system. 

Read More: Medical Alert Fall Detection | Empowering Freedom for Seniors

Cellular-Based Systems

Cellular-based systems are a better alternative to landline-based systems as they provide more coverage and connectivity. Their range is from 600 to 1,500 feet, similar to the landline system. Like other medical alert devices, these systems work when users press the button during emergencies. They are more suitable for urban and suburban areas with reliable cellular coverage. Additionally, they are more secure than landline systems. 

Wearable Medical Alert Systems

Home-based alert systems provide the best results within premises but don’t offer outdoor safety due to their fixed location. Therefore, the devices for seniors with more travel and outdoor activities are on-the-go medical alert systems. Hence, enabling wearers to get coverage outside their homes through cellular technology. Some common wearable devices include:

Pendants

Generally available as necklaces to wear around the neck, these senior safety devices are the most common. Medical alert pendants provide constant monitoring and call for help when the user presses the SOS button. These are long-range devices with an extended coverage of 1,000 feet. Furthermore, the features include wireless connectivity, portability, fall detection, and GPS tracking. 

Medical Alert Watch

Alert watches look similar to smartwatches and can be worn comfortably on wrists. They also work similarly to pendants by sending alerts to responders when the user presses a button. Medical alert watches generally provide coverage for up to 1,000 feet. They also have other features including 4G connectivity, 24/7 monitoring, and water resistance. 

GPS Medical Alert Systems

With a range of up to 1,000 feet, GPS systems are the most suitable option for people who tend to wander and forget their way back. This further enables responders to find the exact location and dispatch help in time. GPS systems ensure timely, reliable, and on-time assistance to ensure and other wearers alike. 

Factors Affecting the Range of Alert Devices

Several factors affect the range of medical alert devices. Some of the most prominent ones are:

Technology 

One of the primary factors that affect the range of any medical alert device is its technology. The working range of medical alert devices differs according to the technology used in the making. For instance, landline, cellular, pendant, smartwatch, or GPS comes with different types of technologies and hence differ in their coverage. GPS-enabled devices have the most extensive coverage, while landline systems only cover users when they are inside homes. Collectively, they all provide emergency alerts for seniors, whenever and wherever needed.  

Environmental Factors

GPS technology in wearable devices faces hurdles due to environmental factors. GPS may give inaccurate location if the user is in a remote area or a place with tall buildings. Additionally, in-home systems also act inaccurately if there is dense foliage or metal structures in the surroundings. 

Signal Strength

Wearable devices with cellular networks depend heavily on signal strength for working in an area. They perform poorly in a location with weak signal strength. This issue is particularly visible in rural and remote areas. 

Battery Life

Some medical alert devices work effectively with optimum battery capacity. Low battery life in these devices negatively impacts the performance of these devices. Therefore, it is necessary to check the battery of your device before moving outdoors with a wearable alert device. 

How to Maximize the Range of Alert Devices

You can get maximum advantage from your medical alert device by following these tips:

• Understand your device’s specific features and range by reading its manual carefully. Knowing about these details enables you to use the device effectively and know its limitations. 
• Keep your device in good condition and take care of its charging. Always charge your personal safety device before moving outside. Also, update the software when required and check the device regularly to avoid mishaps during emergencies. 
• To further amplify the range, you can use a signal booster which not only increases the coverage but also improves the reliability of your medical alert device. 

Conclusion

Medical alert devices are critical for ensuring personal safety for seniors. However, understanding the range of these devices is essential for choosing the right device that fulfills your specific needs. Whether you’re at home or moving outside, a reliable medical alert device with a wide range ensures help is always within reach. You can choose from various options, ranging from in-home systems to GPS-enabled devices, providing varying coverage and added protection. 

Why Choose Us?

Benefits by State is a reliable source for providing complete information about medical alert devices and their feature. You can find details about features, ranges, cost variations, and options that are available in the marketplace. Additionally, Benefits by State helps seniors in selecting medical alert devices from in-house and on-the-go categories, that fulfill their specific requirements.