Why Fall Detection Matters for Older Adults

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than one in four Americans age 65 or older experiences a fall each year. The National Council on Aging (NCOA) also reports that an older adult is treated in an emergency department for a fall every 11 seconds.

For many older adults, a fall can lead to injuries such as broken bones or head trauma, which may require long recovery times. Beyond the physical toll, the fear of falling can also cause some people to limit their activities or social interactions, which can impact their quality of life.

Fall detection provides an extra layer of reassurance. Knowing that help can be automatically summoned in the event of a fall allows many seniors to continue their daily routines with greater confidence.

Fall Prevention Tips

Fall detection is an excellent safeguard, but it’s equally important to take proactive steps to prevent falls in the first place. A few simple adjustments can go a long way in reducing your risk.

Home Safety Adjustments

• Remove tripping hazards such as loose rugs, electrical cords, or clutter on the floor.Make sure all stairways, hallways, and rooms are well-lit.
• Adding night lights in bedrooms and bathrooms is especially helpful for moving around safely after dark.
• Install grab bars in bathrooms near the toilet and shower, and consider using non-slip mats in areas where water may make floors slippery.
• Download our free eBook: A Room-by-Room Guide to Eliminating Common Causes of Falls.

Exercise and Health Maintenance

• Participate in low-impact exercise programs such as yoga, tai chi, or swimming to improve balance, flexibility, and muscle strength.
• Keep up with annual vision and hearing checkups. Good eyesight and hearing help you stay aware of your surroundings and reduce the chance of missteps.
• If you sometimes feel dizzy or unsteady, ask your doctor to review your medications and check your blood pressure. Some prescriptions can increase your risk of falling.

Even with these precautions, falls can still happen. That’s where Lifeline’s fall detection technology comes in.

How Fall Detection Works

What Is a Fall Detection System?

A fall detection system is part of a medical alert service designed to automatically connect you to a Trained Care Specialist if a fall occurs. This means that even if you are unable to press your help button, help can still be on the way.

How Lifeline Detects Falls

Lifeline fall detection technology uses built-in sensors inside your help button to monitor changes in movement and speed. If the system senses a sudden change that indicates a fall, it automatically connects to the Lifeline Response Center. A Trained Care Specialist will then check in with you and, if needed, send help to your location.

This automatic connection is especially valuable in situations where someone might lose consciousness or be unable to reach their help button after a fall.

Choosing the Right Fall Alert System

Do You Need Fall Detection?

Every Lifeline system includes a waterproof help button you can press anytime, even in the shower or bath, where many falls occur. But fall detection adds another level of reassurance.

For individuals who have experienced falls before, have health conditions that affect balance, or simply want to know that help is always within reach, fall detection can be an invaluable feature.

Cost of Fall Detection

Fall detection is available as an optional feature with Lifeline service for an additional $15 monthly fee. Many subscribers find that the peace of mind it provides is well worth the investment.

Fall Detection FAQs

Does fall detection work outside the home?

Yes, fall detection is available with Lifeline mobile systems and the Smartwatch. These work both inside and outside the home.

Will fall detection call 911 automatically?

If a fall is detected, the system first connects you with a Trained Care Specialist. They assess the situation and can send emergency services or contact a caregiver, depending on your needs.

Can fall detection be turned off?

Yes, if you decide you no longer want automatic fall detection, it can be removed from your service plan.

Is fall detection 100% accurate?

No fall detection system can detect every single fall or rule out all false alarms. However, Lifeline uses advanced technology designed to recognize most serious falls and minimize unnecessary alerts.

Live with Confidence with Lifeline

Falls can happen when you least expect them, but you don’t have to face that risk alone. A Lifeline medical alert system with fall detection can provide added reassurance, helping you or your loved one continue to live independently with confidence. Take our product quiz to find the right system for you or call us today at 855-681-5351 to speak with a specialist.

The post Understanding Fall Detection and How It Works appeared first on Lifeline.

Smartwatches offer invaluable security and health monitoring features, making them essential tools for seniors, even those who may feel intimidated by technology. Fortunately, many smartwatches are designed to be user-friendly, ensuring that they can be easily operated by individuals of all tech levels.

These innovative devices can significantly improve the quality of life for seniors by providing features such as health tracking, emergency assistance, and reminders for medications. When selecting a smartwatch for yourself or a loved one, it’s important to consider a few key features that will best meet their needs. With the right smartwatch, seniors can enjoy greater independence and peace of mind, knowing they have essential support right on their wrist.

Key Features to Consider in Senior Smartwatches

Choosing the right smartwatch for seniors involves considering several key features that can enhance their experience and provide numerous benefits.

User-Friendly Design

When selecting a smartwatch for seniors, prioritize ease of use. A device that can be easily programmed and operated is vital for those who may not be familiar with technology. Looks for a smartwatch with voice activation. Many smartwatches support voice prompts. The watch will vibrate and speak to notify you when the device is battery is low, the device is charging, and more. Once they understand how the watch works, using it becomes second nature.

Large Display for Easy Readability

An easy-to-read display can make all the difference. Look for a smartwatch that features a larger screen with clear, bold text, ensuring that seniors can navigate its functions with ease. As fine motor skills and eyesight may decline with age, having a clear and accessible interface encourages confidence in using the device.

Comfortable Wearability

A smartwatch should be comfortable enough for daily use. Look for models that are waterproof and ergonomically designed. The Lifeline Smartwatch is both waterproof and lightweight, making it suitable for environments like the bath or shower, where falls can commonly occur.

Long Battery Life for Reliability

A long-lasting battery is crucial to avoid interruptions during crucial moments. The Lifeline Smartwatch offers extended battery life along with easy charging options, ensuring reliability when it matters most.

Improving Senior Health with Smartwatches

Smartwatches can play a crucial role in enhancing the health and well-being of seniors. With advanced features and functionalities, they have become indispensable tools for seniors looking to stay active and monitor their health.

Health Monitoring Features

Staying active is crucial for seniors and smartwatches can be a vital tool for seniors looking to monitor their health. Features such as a heart rate monitor and step tracking can help motivate seniors to engage in regular physical activity, leading to improved cardiovascular health, increased mobility, and enhanced cognitive function. These features in a smartwatch can also be helpful for seniors who need to manage health concerns proactively.

Smartwatches Enhance Senior Safety

Many smartwatches come equipped with GPS technology, enabling seniors to easily track their location. In emergencies or if they get lost, they can quickly alert loved ones or emergency services.

Emergency Assistance

The Lifeline Smartwatch offers 24/7 support with a built-in help button that connects users to a response center at any time, ensuring trained care specialists can quickly dispatch the appropriate assistance, whether from a family member, neighbor, or emergency services. Additionally, the smartwatch features automatic fall detection, which can send help even when the help button isn’t pressed, providing an extra layer of security to ensure seniors receive timely assistance when needed.

GPS Tracking Capabilities

The Lifeline Smartwatch features advanced GPS and Wi-Fi location technology, ensuring seniors can receive assistance wherever they are. This is particularly reassuring for those with memory loss, providing peace of mind for both seniors and their families.

Supporting Senior Independence with Smartwatches

Smartwatches offer seniors a range of benefits, from health monitoring and connectivity to supporting daily independence and overall well-being. These devices are designed to empower seniors to live more freely, with quick access to essential features like emergency assistance, health tracking, and reminders, all at their fingertips. With a smartwatch, seniors can move through their day with confidence, knowing that help is close by if they need it.

For more information about smartwatches for seniors, contact Lifeline today. We offer a wide range of medical alert systems with essential emergency functions, providing peace of mind for you and your loved ones.

The post Smartwatch Benefits for Seniors: Safety and Health appeared first on Lifeline.

Benefits of Wearable Medical Alert Systems  

The Power of Medical Alert Systems  

Medical alert systems are specifically designed to be worn on the body, ensuring continuous monitoring and quick access to assistance. Unlike a smart speaker, which requires you to be within earshot, wearable devices are always with you, providing you with security 24/7, 365 days a year. Whether at home, in the yard, or out running errands, these devices remain vigilant, and response specialists are ready to respond in any situation.  

Fast Response Time  

According to the CDC, more than one out of four older adults fall each year. After a fall, rapid response is crucial to faster recovery and the ability to return home. Medical alert systems are engineered to provide fast communication with response specialists at the press of a button. Smart speakers, while capable of making emergency calls, might not offer the same level of immediacy. Wearable devices prioritize swift response, ensuring that the right help is on the way in the shortest possible time frame.  

Accuracy in Location Tracking  

In emergency situations, accurate location information is extremely important. Mobile medical alert systems feature advanced GPS technology, enabling response specialists to pinpoint your exact location. Smart speakers, on the other hand, relies on the location of the device itself, which may not be where you need assistance sent.   

Fall Detection  

A pivotal feature that sets medical alert systems apart is the inclusion of fall detection technology. Wearable devices equipped with fall detection automatically initiate a call for help upon detecting a fall. This critical advantage ensures that even if an individual is unable to speak or press a button, help will be dispatched promptly. Fall detection technology is designed to distinguish between falls and daily activity, reducing the risk of false alarms and providing a more accurate and reliable response. Since you don’t wear a smart speaker, it lacks the physical connection to your movements, making it incapable of detecting a fall. 

Dedicated Functionality

Medical alert systems are purpose-built for providing fast assistance when and where you need it, offering a streamlined and dedicated functionality. Smart speakers, while a multifunctional smart device, may not provide the same level of focus and efficiency in emergency scenarios. Wearable devices are designed to be user-friendly, ensuring that individuals of all ages and abilities can easily access help when needed. 

Reliability and Battery Life

Medical alert systems are designed with reliability in mind, featuring long-lasting battery life to ensure continuous protection. Smart speakers, as a smart home device, may be susceptible to power outages or network connectivity issues. Many medical alert systems can function independently or remain working off a backup battery, minimizing the risk of service interruptions during critical moments. 

The Unmatched Advantages of Medical Alert Systems 

While voice-activated smart speakers like Alexa have the capability to transform our daily lives, they do not provide the same level of focused and immediate assistance as dedicated medical alert systems. In the realm of emergency response, the choice between the two ultimately boils down to the critical factors of response time, accuracy, reliability, and the continuous presence of the device. Medical alert systems not only prioritize immediate assistance but can also minimize the chance of unnecessary interventions, fostering a sense of trust and confidence in the device’s capabilities. Furthermore, as falls can happen unexpectedly and in various environments, the inclusion of fall detection in medical alert systems significantly enhances their overall effectiveness, making them an indispensable choice for those seeking comprehensive and proactive emergency response solutions. 

Find the Right Medical Alert System for Your Lifestyle

If you are seeking protection, peace of mind, and the fastest possible response in an emergency, Lifeline offers easy-to-use medical alert systems that can be tailored to your unique lifestyle. Whether you’re looking for protection at home or on the go, we’re here to help you find the perfect solution.

Get started today by taking our short product selection quiz to determine which system is the right fit for you. Your safety, independence, and peace of mind are our top priorities, and we’re here to assist you in ensuring a rapid response in times of need.

Get Started

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Understanding the Seasonal Risks

Before delving into preparation, it’s vital to be aware of the specific risks associated with your location. The occurrence of natural disasters varies throughout the year and across regions. For instance:

• Eastern Pacific Hurricane Season: May 15 to November 30.
• Atlantic Hurricane Season: June 1 to November 30.
• Central Pacific Hurricane Season: June 1 to November 30.
• Tornadoes are more prevalent in the Midwest and Southeast regions of the U.S., posing a threat year-round.
• Wildfires, characterized by unplanned fires in natural areas like forests and grasslands, can erupt unexpectedly.

Being Prepared for Your Region

One crucial takeaway is that hurricanes aren’t solely coastal concerns. Research and understand the potential risks in your area. Enroll in national and community weather alerts to stay informed.

Recognizing tornado indicators, such as funnel-shaped clouds or roaring sounds akin to freight trains, is pivotal. Keep a close eye on local weather updates and register for alerts.

In the case of wildfires, don’t just focus on weather alerts. Incorporate air-quality notifications into your preparations as well.

Crafting an Emergency Plan

An emergency plan is your lifeline during crises. Involve your family or household in its creation. Ensure that everyone comprehends evacuation procedures. Should you need to evacuate, refrain from returning home until authorities declare it safe. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) recommends starting with some simple steps to prepare, which include:

• Build an emergency supply kit (see recommendations below).
• Make a family communication plan.
• Know the evacuation routes you need to leave your home.
• Locate your local emergency shelters.
• Closely watch/listen to weather reports – every hour as the storm nears.
• Put fuel in all vehicles and withdraw some cash from the bank. Gas stations and ATMs may be closed after a storm.
• If authorities ask you to leave, do so quickly

Assembling Your Emergency Go-Bag

An emergency go-bag, thoughtfully prepared, can be a lifesaver. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) suggests including these items, among others, in airtight bags stored within a larger bag:

• Cell phone, charger, backup battery or solar charger
• Personal hygiene items: masks, soap, hand sanitizer, disinfecting wipes
• Updated emergency contacts list, medical professionals’ numbers, and vet details
• Waterproof container with essential documents: IDs, insurance policies, banking records
• Medical necessities: hearing aids, eyeglasses, medications, first aid supplies
• Water and sustenance: 1 gallon per person/pet, energy bars, pet food
• Communication tools: radio (solar or battery-powered), NOAA Weather Radio
• Cash or pre-paid cards, whistle, sanitation supplies, survival blanket

Download a printable version here

Lifeline’s Emergency Preparedness: Important Information about Your Medical Alert Equipment

At Lifeline, your safety and that of your loved ones take precedence. In the face of unpredictability, such as natural disasters, it’s important to know what to do with your Lifeline medical alert system.

If you need to evacuate from your home:

• Take your Lifeline pendant and your in-home communicator (if you have one) with you if you are able. If you have an On the Go mobile device, remember to take your charging pad.
• If you plug your Lifeline in-home communicator in a temporary location, call our Customer Service team at 1-800-635-6156 to let us know where you are located and how long you expect to be there. If you have a mobile pendant, it will work outside of your home as long as it is charged and is in a place with adequate cellular network coverage.

If you evacuate, when you get home you should:

• Place a test call by pressing your pendant or the button on your in-home communicator when you return home.
• If your Lifeline equipment was damaged in the storm, please contact us immediately upon your return home so that we can get new equipment shipped to you as soon as possible.

If you are not evacuating and you lose power:

• If you lose power, your Lifeline medical alert system will work for a limited time off of a backup battery.
• If your in-home communicator relies on a landline connection to send a help signal, your Lifeline in-home communicator will not function if your phone service goes down.
• When your power is restored, please test your system immediately to ensure it is working properly.

If you cannot successfully complete a help call, contact our Customer Service team at 1-800-635-6156 as soon as possible so that we can assist you.

Tailoring Preparedness to Older Adults

Planning for your unique needs and those of your loved ones will impact your plans, help you prepare appropriately and possibly help save lives. You should have enough supplies on hand in order to survive at least three days if an emergency occurs. For older adults, it may also help to keep things like walkers, wheelchairs and other assistive devices clearly labeled with your name and phone number.

By preparing diligently and staying informed, you empower yourself and those around you to face adversity head-on.

The post Preparing for Natural Disasters: Your Comprehensive Guide appeared first on Lifeline.

Smart Strategies to Manage Caregiving Expenses Effectively

Assessing the Situation

The first crucial step is to determine the exact amount required for caregiving expenses. Recognize that different family members will have varying capacities to contribute due to their individual financial obligations. Nevertheless, the primary concern should always be the well-being of your parents or loved ones. Even those who are unable to provide financial support can contribute in other meaningful ways.

In lieu of monetary assistance, consider allocating responsibilities such as driving your loved ones to appointments, helping with grocery shopping, housekeeping, meal preparation, and other tasks that fall outside the caregiver’s responsibilities.

Evaluate Your Loved One’s Finances

It is essential to assess the financial resources available from your loved ones themselves. If your parents have savings, investments, a nest egg, or insurance coverage, these assets can help alleviate the burden on the rest of the family.

In cases where they continue to reside in their own home, these funds can be utilized to hire a caregiver. Alternatively, if they need to transition to assisted living, selling their home can provide the necessary funds.

If the individuals in need of care are your parents, it is reasonable to assume that any financial support would ultimately benefit the children. This perspective ensures that the responsibility does not solely fall on the children’s shoulders.

Consult Professionals

Seeking guidance from a financial advisor or lawyer can provide insights into potential assistance options. If your loved ones do not possess significant financial means, they may qualify for medical assistance programs designed for in-home care or assisted living. Consulting with professionals can help you navigate the complex financial landscape and reach informed decisions.

A mediator or objective third party can also offer valuable input and help facilitate a final resolution. Their impartial perspective can prevent disputes and impasses, as resolving these matters independently might prove challenging.

Respect Your Siblings’ Choices

It is possible that some of your siblings may refuse to contribute financially. This should be understandable, especially if they are facing financial instability, such as unemployment, the arrival of a new baby, or struggling to make ends meet. It is important to refrain from judgment or belittlement.

For siblings who cannot contribute financially or can only offer a modest amount, explore alternative ways they can assist while still feeling involved and helpful. Engage in open conversations with them to find mutually agreeable ways for their participation. Avoid pressuring siblings who are unable to financially contribute towards caregiving expenses. Instead, strive to find common ground and reach agreements on alternative means of involvement.

Document Everything

Maintaining meticulous documentation of all financial transactions is crucial. Make this information readily accessible for all siblings to review and ensure that every expenditure is recorded. Transparency is key in managing money matters within families, and by keeping accurate records, you provide clarity on how each individual contributes and where the funds are allocated.

This approach fosters satisfaction among all siblings, assuring them that their contributions are allocated appropriately. By documenting receipts, tracking incoming and outgoing funds, and accounting for any remaining balance, you minimize the likelihood of disputes or accusations regarding mishandling of finances.

Consider a Medical Alert System

Investing in a medical alert system may bring peace of mind to all parties involved, ensuring your parents have immediate access to medical professionals in case of emergencies. These systems contain comprehensive medical information, including contact details for you and all your siblings. Acquiring a medical alert system is a small yet invaluable investment in caregiving that can potentially save lives.

The post Crafting a Feasible Financial Plan for Caregiving Costs appeared first on Lifeline.

Essential Items for Independent Senior Living

Smart Home Technology

Smart home technology is becoming increasingly popular among all ages, including seniors. Smart home devices like Amazon Echo and Google Home allow you to control your lights, thermostat, door locks, security systems, and other appliances with just a few simple voice commands. With these devices, there’s no need to fumble around for switches or remotes—just ask Alexa or Google Assistant to do it for you!

Medical Alert Systems

A medical alert systems is a device that allows seniors to call for help in the event of an emergency. A medical alert system with fall detection has the capabilities to call for help even when someone is unable to press the button. Lifeline’s home system comes with a base station that is connected to your phone line or Wi-Fi network, as well as a wearable button (worn around the neck or wrist) that allows you to call for help at any time. Lifeline’s mobile system, which you wear around your neck, includes an advanced GPS locator so that you can quickly get the help you need in your home or on the go.

Robot Vacuums

Robot vacuums have become increasingly popular recently—and not just among senior citizens! These robotic vacuums are designed to autonomously clean your floors while you relax or take care of other tasks. Some models even come with sensors that help them avoid obstacles like furniture and stairs so they won’t get stuck or crash into anything. Plus, most robot vacuums are relatively quiet so they won’t disturb your peace and quiet.

Fall Prevention Items

Safety should always come first when it comes to seniors living on their own. Investing in items that prevent falls or assist with mobility is key. Some of these items may include grab bars for the shower, raised toilet seats, shower benches, elevated bath chairs, and mobility aids such as wheelchairs or walkers. These items allow seniors to feel secure while moving around their homes.

Organizers and Helpers

It can be difficult for seniors to keep track of daily tasks and errands, which is why investing in organizers or helpers can be so beneficial. There are apps and devices specifically designed for seniors that help them remember to take their medications on time, pay bills, organize meals, keep up with appointments, and more. With the help of these devices, seniors can stay organized and on top of their daily tasks with ease.

Bathroom Aids

Bathroom aids can make a huge difference for seniors who have difficulty getting in and out of the shower or bathtub. Items such as long-handled sponges, non-slip mats, and handheld showers are all great options to help them stay safe while bathing. This can also be extremely helpful for seniors who may need assistance bathing or using the restroom.

Kitchen Aids

Similar to bathroom aids, kitchen aids such as automatic food choppers and blenders are available that can help seniors prepare meals more easily. Additionally, there are microwaves with large-print displays or voice command options that make it easier for seniors to use them. There are also products that can help seniors open bottles, jars, and cans with ease. Investing in these items can help make mealtime much more enjoyable for seniors.

Large-Button Phones

Having a phone that is easy to use can be essential for seniors who live alone. Large-button phones have become increasingly popular, as they make dialing and using the phone much simpler than traditional models. Many also come with features such as amplified sound, caller ID, emergency buttons, and more so that seniors can stay connected to their loved ones and be contacted in case of an emergency.

Conclusion

It’s important for seniors living alone at home to feel secure in their own space—and items like medical alert systems and robot vacuums can help make it happen! Investing in these items can provide peace of mind and make life easier for seniors who want to remain independent without sacrificing their safety or comfort. Consider adding one of these smart items into your life today!

The post Helpful Things for Seniors Living Alone appeared first on Lifeline.

3 Essential Caregiving Tips

Get Everyone on Board

Start by scheduling family meetings to discuss and delegate caregiving responsibilities. It’s essential to emphasize that caring for your parents or elderly relatives is not just a duty but also a privilege. Encourage family members to volunteer for various caregiving tasks. This not only eases the burden on you but also allows them to contribute positively and feel a sense of fulfillment. Remember, asking for help is not a sign of selfishness; it’s a way to share the responsibility and provide the best care possible.

In addition to involving family members, consider having an open and honest conversation with your employer. Explain your caregiving situation and the potential need for flexibility, such as time off for doctor’s appointments or other essential care tasks. Most employers are understanding and willing to accommodate such requests when you communicate openly about your situation.

Organize and Simplify

The demands of caregiving can be overwhelming, and it’s easy to become disorganized. To keep track of appointments and schedules, carry a small notebook with you to jot down important dates and tasks. A large family calendar in your home can serve as a centralized hub for everyone’s schedules. Keeping everyone informed helps reduce mental clutter and stress, allowing you to focus on the well-being of your loved one and yourself.

Enlist Outside Help and Consider a Medical Alert System

Recognize that there may come a point where it’s impossible to provide all the necessary care while juggling other responsibilities. Though it may be emotionally challenging, consider seeking outside assistance. If you work, options like a visiting nurse or adult day care centers can provide respite and support. There might be moments when you realize that you can no longer offer adequate care, whether your loved one resides independently or with you. This realization may lead to a difficult decision, such as transitioning your loved one to an assisted living facility or nursing home.

In such cases, it’s worth exploring the use of a medical alert system. Lifeline’s medical alert systems can provide peace of mind for both you and your loved one. These wearables, when activated, connect your loved one to a 24/7 monitoring center. In case of an emergency or a fall, they can quickly request assistance, even if you’re not nearby. This added layer of security can be a lifeline, allowing your loved one to maintain some independence while ensuring their safety.

Balancing Caregiving

Balancing caregiving and the rest of your life can be a challenging task. Being prepared and proactive in seeking help and support will ensure that you and your loved one can make the most of your time together while minimizing stress and hardship. By following these strategies and considering the use of a medical alert system, you can better manage your caregiving responsibilities, maintain your own well-being, and provide the best care possible for your aging parents or elderly relatives.

The post Three Essential Tips for Caring for Parents While Living Your Own Life appeared first on Lifeline.

What Does a Medical Alert Bracelet or Pendant Do?

These wearables can help you get medical help fast. Part of a medical alert system, the bracelet or pendant features a button that wearers can easily push when they require assistance. The call is answered by trained staff who can offer immediate help, notify loved ones, or summon emergency assistance. Some models even include automatic fall detection, which notifies call center operators even if the wearer cannot press the button themselves.

Medical alert systems are suitable for anyone, especially people who:

• Live alone
• Want to remain independent
• Live with one or more chronic conditions
• Take medication that increases fall risk
• Have mobility issues
• Want to feel safer and increase peace of mind for their loved ones

What is a Medical ID Bracelet or Necklace?

Medical IDs provide vital information about your health, such as medical conditions, allergies, and medications, on a bracelet or pendant. This information is crucial for emergency personnel when you’re unable to communicate. They are particularly beneficial for individuals living with various health challenges, including:

• Cognitive and memory issues or developmental disabilities
• Heart conditions
• Diabetes
• Food or medication allergies
• Asthma, emphysema, or COPD
• Epilepsy
• Autism
• Implants such as steel rods, brain shunts or stents

It’s essential to choose an ID that matches your personal style, but make sure it prominently displays the emergency medical symbol so that emergency care providers recognize it as a vital information source rather than just jewelry.

So Which is Right For Me?

While either a medical ID bracelet or a medical alert system can be a lifesaver in an emergency, the combination of both offers the best chance of receiving the care you need quickly and accurately. By having your medical information readily accessible on your person and the ability to call for help at the press of a button, you’re ensuring a comprehensive safety net for yourself or your loved ones.

Find the Right Medical Alert System for Your Lifestyle

If you are seeking protection, peace of mind, and the fastest possible response in an emergency, Lifeline offers easy-to-use medical alert systems that can be tailored to your unique lifestyle. Whether you’re looking for protection at home or on the go, we’re here to help you find the perfect solution.

Get started today by taking our short product selection quiz to determine which system is the right fit for you. Your safety, independence, and peace of mind are our top priorities, and we’re here to assist you in ensuring a rapid response in times of need.

Get Started

The post The Critical Difference Between a Medical Alert Bracelet and a Medical Alert System appeared first on Lifeline.

Researching deductions for medical equipment used by yourself, your spouse or another person in your care is worth the effort because you may be able to reduce your tax bill.

The IRS allows taxpayers who itemize to potentially deduct the amount of medical and dental expenses that is more than 7.5% of your adjusted gross income on Schedule A (Form 1040). If you take the standard deduction, you cannot claim medical equipment or other health-related deductions.

Qualifying Medical Expenses for Tax Deductions

Once you or your qualified dependent meets the medical deduction threshold, you can investigate the approved medical deductions and credits that may apply to you. You may be able to count as medical expenses the amount you pay for:

• Artificial limbs and teeth
• Braille books and magazines
• Crutch rental or purchase
• Equipment that displays the audio part of television programs as subtitles for persons with a hearing disability
• Eyeglasses, contact lenses and related equipment
• Hearing aids and batteries, repairs and maintenance needed to operate them
• Medical supplies such as bandages
• Oxygen and oxygen equipment to relieve breathing problems caused by a medical condition
• Telephone equipment for a person who is deaf, hard of hearing, or has a speech disability, including teletypewriter (TTY) and telecommunications devices for the deaf (TDD)
• Wheelchairs used for the relief of a sickness or disability
• Wigs purchased on the advice of a physician for the patient’s mental health

Personal medical alert systems, like Lifeline, may be deductible with a prescription from a doctor. If you do not have a prescription, you might be able to claim the system as a capital expense for special equipment installed in your home for the main purpose of supporting medical care for you, your spouse or your dependent.

Additionally, depending on the product you use, you may be able to claim the Medical Information Plan deduction for “amounts paid to a plan that keeps medical information in a computer data bank and retrieves and furnishes the information upon request to an attending physician.”

With so many possible deductions for medical equipment, it’s smart to determine how itemizing could potentially help you cut the cost of aging or reduce the financial burden of being a caregiver. It’s always best to consult with a tax professional and IRS Publication 502 for the most current list of eligible deductions to determine if you qualify.

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This information is not intended as a substitute for professional financial, accounting, tax or legal consultation; it is provided “as is” without any representations or warranties, express or implied. Remember to always consult professionals when you have specific questions about any financial matter.

The post What Medical Equipment is Tax Deductible? appeared first on Lifeline.

“We are social animals and need to have family and tribe and a sense of belonging to be psychologically whole,” says Andrew Duxbury, professor in the Division of Gerontology, Geriatrics and Palliative Care at the University of Alabama-Birmingham. “As the vicissitudes of life cause our bodies to change, getting out becomes harder, we tend to spend more time at home and our peer group starts to fall away.”

But it doesn’t have to be that way.

“The rise of the Internet has helped reverse these trends by allowing seniors to stay in touch with family and peers without having to leave a comfortable environment,” Duxbury says.

Here’s how technology is helping seniors stay connected and live healthier lives.

Video Calling and Chats for Older Family Members

“We all want to be included in things,” says Deborah Shouse, author of Connecting in the Land of Dementia: Creating Activities to Explore Together. “Staying connected with family and friends enriches life and offers an air of excitement to everyday life. Having a visual to go along with the conversation often helps us all feel more connected.”

Video calls and conferencing apps make inclusion and connection possible, and more older Americans are already using the technology needed to connect in these ways. Data from Pew Research shows that about 91% of Americans 65 and older own a mobile phone and 53% own smartphones¹.

Social Media Keeps Older Adults Engaged

Duxbury says he knows a lot of 80-somethings who use Facebook and other social media. According to a Pew Research report, 8% of online adults 65 and older use Instagram, 11% use LinkedIn, and 46% and use Facebook². Like Vicki Lamb.

“Facebook is a wonderful way to stay in touch with family and friends,” says Lamb, who is 79. “You can see what they are doing and watch the children and grandchildren grow. Three of my children spent 18 days in Italy, Greece and Crete — I am quite limited by arthritis, but I traveled with them vicariously. And in my late husband’s family of 224 members, Facebook really allows me to stay involved.” Lamb also participates in a weekly video conference with her nephews and their families.

Wearables & Devices Can Improve Safety

Home monitoring systems and wearable medical alert systems with automatic notification capabilities make it possible for caregiving children to know when their parents are safe or need assistance without having difficult conversations.

Duxbury says wearables, in particular, support better connectedness and communication for seniors through “real-time monitoring of activity and immediate alert to a fall or other untoward event; helping prevent wandering in the cognitively impaired, [and] sending real-time data to central computers which can alert a healthcare provider if something is out of parameters.”

6 Tips for Talking to Your Parents About Technology

Ready to talk to mom or dad about using technology to stay better connected and engaged?  Here are six tips:

1. Plan the conversation for a time of day when everyone is rested and alert.
2. Be sensitive to your parent’s feelings of self-consciousness and fear of being put “in the home” — explain that some technology might be to avoid that very thing.
3. Stay focused on the benefits to you and your parents, including your peace of mind.
4. Use the technology, when possible, to support the conversation.
5. Cite examples of friends or family already using technology to stay safe and independent.
6. Prepare to have a series of incremental conversations about aging, isolation and healthcare.

Staying connected is important for your peace of mind and your family members’ wellbeing. Start exploring how technology can help today.

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¹ “Mobile Fact Sheet.” Pew Research Center, Washington, D.C. (June 12, 2019), https://www.pewresearch.org/internet/fact-sheet/mobile/.
Pew Research Center bears no responsibility for the analyses or interpretations of the data presented here. The opinions expressed herein, including any implications for policy, are those of the author and not of Pew Research Center.

² “Social Media Fact Sheet.” Pew Research Center, Washington, D.C. (June 12, 2019), https://www.pewresearch.org/internet/fact-sheet/social-media/.
Pew Research Center bears no responsibility for the analyses or interpretations of the data presented here. The opinions expressed herein, including any implications for policy, are those of the author and not of Pew Research Center.

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