While you may not be concerned about your safety now, accidents and other unexpected health concerns become increasingly likely as we get older. For example, each year 1 in 4 people age 65 or older suffers a fall. After you’ve fallen once, your chance of falling again unfortunately doubles. Additionally, throwing out your back, unexpected bouts of vertigo, and other accidents are all reasons why having a medical alert system can ensure your safety.

The good news is that 90% of older adults who get help within one hour will be able to return home and resume their lives. Being proactive ensures that if an accident does happen again, the help you need is on the way.

When you press your button, you’re connected instantly to our 24/7 U.S.-based monitoring center—no need to search for your phone, dial a number or explain who you are. We already know your name, location, and emergency contacts, so we can act fast. Unlike 9-1-1, which only routes you through EMS dispatch, we send the right help right away—whether that’s EMS or someone you trust like a neighbor, caregiver, or family member. It’s faster, more personal, and built around you.

Cost is an understandable concern. However, the cost of not investing in a medical alert device can be more devastating than investing in one. Experts refer to the first hour after a fall occurs as the “golden hour.” Receiving medical attention during this critical time has been shown to dramatically decrease medical costs and increase survival rates. After the first hour, treatment becomes riskier and is more likely to result in the need for rehabilitation and costly long-term care. For about $1 a day, you and your loved ones can feel the peace of mind that comes with 24-hour emergency response at the push of a button.

Cell phones are handy, but they don’t replace the need for a medical alert device. Unlike a cell phone, most devices are water resistant, meaning you’re protected even while in the shower. Because the devices are worn around the neck or on the wrist, help is always within reach. A single button press activates our medical alert devices, setting them apart from even the most user-friendly cell phone.

How does Fall Detection work? Fall detection pendants have tiny sensors that can detect changes in motion as well as changes in height. This information is analyzed real-time to determine if the person wearing the fall detection pendant has experienced a motion pattern that indicates a fall has occurred.

What’s is the recommended way to wear my Fall Detection pendant? Fall Detection works best when worn on the outside of clothing. This allows the pendant to move freely so it can pick up on motion patterns that indicate a fall has occurred. Most devices are designed to be worn close to the chest or waist area, where they can detect movements accurately.

I dropped my device and Fall Detection did not activate. Is the fall detection working properly? Yes! The fall detection feature is usually able to tell the difference between a drop and a fall. The device is working in real time to analyze movement and determine if a fall has happened. Remember, fall detection is very good but does not work 100% of the time. In an emergency, if you are able, please press your button for help. If you are unsure if fall detection is enabled on your device, please call Member Support at 1 (734) 219-4327.

Fall Detection Best Practices

• Wear It Consistently: Always wear your fall detection device. Whether it’s a pendant, wristband, or clip-on device, it should be worn consistently throughout the day.

• Proper Placement: Ensure that the device is placed correctly on your body. Most devices are designed to be worn close to the chest area, where they can detect movements accurately. The adjustable lanyard option keeps the device at the correct location for you.

• Keep It Charged: If the device has a rechargeable battery, make sure it’s charged regularly. Low battery levels can affect the device’s functionality, so keep it charged as recommended.

• Maintain a Routine: Establish a daily routine, so the device can better recognize deviations from your typical activities. Sudden changes in behavior or activity patterns may trigger false alarms.

Yes! All our wearable devices are water-resistant and designed to be worn in the shower—one of the most common places where falls can happen. However, please keep base units for home devices dry!

Depending on your insurance plan, you may be eligible for a discounted or free device! We recommend reaching out directly to your health insurance provider to find out if medical alert devices are covered and which options you may qualify for.

Even if you aren’t covered by your health insurance, at Vanguard Watch Medical Monitoring, it’s our goal to make getting a device as affordable as possible. All of our devices are available for purchase via phone or online. Check out our website for promotions, and you can usually snag a device for a discount!