Sponsored Love: How To Choose The Best Medical Alert System In Canada

A medical alert system is one of the most thoughtful gifts you can ever give to your loved ones.

With these devices, you can track the health condition of your vulnerable family members and respond promptly during medical emergencies.

Some medical alert systems are designed for at-home use, whereas others provide remote monitoring out of your home. Whichever option you choose depends on your dear ones’ medical needs.

In this post, we shall highlight the key considerations when scouting for an effective medical alert system in Canada.

1. Leasing versus Buying

To buy or lease?

That’s a common dilemma you’ll face while shopping for a medical alert system in Canada.

Rented medical alert systems are ideal for temporary use, such as if you’re monitoring the postoperative recovery of a family member. You only pay for the services during the active duration of use, and can cancel your subscription at any time.

On the other hand, purchasing a medical alert system is best if you’re eyeing long-term usage. While the initial equipment costs may be significantly high, you get to use the devices for as long as they remain functional.

Moreover, owning a medical alert system eliminates the trouble of returning the gadgets when the leasing period lapses. You also enjoy warranty benefits, which can run into years, depending on the provider.

2. In-Home versus On-the-Go Alert Systems

As the name implies, in-home medical alert systems are meant for use within the home vicinity. The gadgets typically come with a base station equipped with a help button and a two-way speaker for seamless information transmission during medical emergencies. Depending on the provider, you may also get wearable pendants designed with emergency buttons.

To activate an in-home medical alert system, simply push the buttons on the base station or pendant, and you’ll be instantly connected with an emergency responder.

One noteworthy drawback to in-home medical alert systems is their reduced flexibility. If you’re seeking protection for your loved ones wherever they go, consider on-the-go alert systems.

On-the-go medical alert systems feature built-in, two-way communication capabilities and work via cellular networks. Some are also fitted with Wi-Fi and GPS trackers to pinpoint the wearer’s location, enhancing emergency response.

On-the-go medical alert systems come in a variety of designs, including pendants, belt clip-ons, smartwatches, and fitness trackers.

3. Landline versus Cellular Connection

When choosing between in-home and on-the-go medical alert systems, you’ll also need to pick between landline and cellular connection.

Landline connections are ideal for in-home medical alert systems. They’re more affordable than their cellular counterparts, and deliver exceptionally in areas with spotty cellular coverage.

However, landline connections are unreliable for on-the-go medical alert systems. In this case, cellular networks would be your best bet.

If possible, invest in both landline and cellular connections. This combination provides reliability whether your vulnerable loved ones are at home or venturing outdoors.

4. Compatibility with Local Cellular Network

While cellular connections are perfect for on-the-go medical alert systems, not every part of the country receives stable cellular coverage from all major providers.

Therefore, it’s important to establish that a mobile network company provides coverage in your area before integrating their services into your medical alert systems.

To do that, you may need to conduct a practical assessment using your regular mobile devices. Alternatively, read online reviews to understand the cellular companies with a predominant presence in your general location.

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5. Signal Range

How far can a medical alert system’s signal travel?

The answer will determine whether the system suits your loved ones or not.

Ideally, your home’s size should be the principal factor while assessing a medical alert system’s signal range. While some signals cover a paltry 200-foot radius of the base station, some can provide transmission for up to 1,400 feet. Insist on a longer range if you have a larger home.

If you’re in doubt, conduct an open field test of a medical alert system during the trial period to determine its actual coverage range.

6. Additional Accessories and Capabilities

Help Button Activation

Medical alert systems typically have two primary options for activating help, namely;

Wall Buttons: Commonly placed where your loved ones prefer to hang out or where they’re likely to fall.

Voice-activated Buttons: Activate emergency response through a voice command.

Fall Detection Buttons

Many traditional medical alert systems come with a fall detection button in addition to a help button.

Be sure to keep that in mind if you’re looking for a package that includes fall protection.

Location Tracking

If your vulnerable loved ones primarily use on-the-go medical alert systems, it’s important to pinpoint their exact location during medical emergencies. That’s where location tracking comes in.

Insist on devices fitted with advanced tracking technologies, such as GPS, Wi-Fi, and 4-G cellular.

Batteries

Medical alert systems rely on coin-sized lithium (3V) batteries that can last for years.

While these batteries are typically waterproof, keeping them free from moisture can prolong their durability.

7. Warranty and Guarantees

Medical alert systems don’t come cheap. Therefore, you want a company that offers reasonable warranties and guarantees.

Many medical alert equipment come with a manufacturer’s warranty, which entitles you to free repairs or replacements for manufacturing defects.

Besides the warranty, consider a company that provides a longer money-back guarantee (up to one month). This way, you have ample time to test-drive their gadgets before committing via a full subscription.

The Bottom Line

No two medical alert systems are equal. While observing the above tips might help you narrow down on an efficient medical alert system, choosing the right package ultimately comes down to the needs of your vulnerable loved ones.

As a bonus point, consider an emergency responder’s capabilities while shopping for a medical alert system in Canada.