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Home and mobile panic buttons have taken Canada by storm. Their usefulness and reliability in providing support for seniors have made them a must in personal safety and protection.

Thanks to this technology, many elderly people have regained their independence and self-confidence. They are now able to live independently without fear, knowing that help is only a push of a button away.

Indeed, seniors can feel comfortable and at ease staying home alone because they have access to 24/7 emergency services from a wearable panic button.

No need for a smartphone to call for help because a built-in communication system is available from the panic button itself. Just push the button and you are immediately connected to a live emergency operator.

For very low monthly fees, you have non-stop emergency services at your disposal!

Personal emergency response systems (PERs), medical alert systems, and senior panic buttons are offered by our security partners in Ontario, Quebec, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta, British Columbia, and throughout Canada!

Find out how you can get a reliable panic button for you or an elderly relative for peace of mind.
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Why are panic buttons essential for seniors?

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Panic buttons are very helpful for seniors who are at a higher risk for falls, accidents, medical emergencies, and even fire.

Panic buttons can be worn as a necklace or wristband and allows a user to simply press the button to summon emergency assistance quickly.

In the event of a fall or medical emergency wherein the senior cannot speak or move, quick access to emergency services is not only convenient but can also save a life!

Some security companies offer panic buttons connected to a monitored security system to ensure total security and safety at all times.

Having a panic button is a must for peace of mind and security for seniors and caregivers. Seniors wearing a panic button at home and while outdoors can feel more confident about doing routine and leisure activities and prolong their ability to live independently.

How do panic buttons work?

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Panic buttons are small, portable devices that ensure that a user gets access to emergency assistance during an emergency situation.

The user simply needs to push the button. When the button is pushed, a signal is received by the monitoring center and responded to by a trained professional. He will determine the type of assistance required by the user.

The senior can immediately speak to a live operator through a 2-way communication system built-in on the device. If the user cannot speak, the operator can dispatch emergency responders to check on the user’s status.  He can dispatch a medical team, police responders, or contact a family member for non-medical emergencies.

Most panic buttons are conveniently worn as a necklace, can be clipped to a belt, or worn around the wrist like a watch.  They are also waterproof or water-resistant, allowing users to wear them even in the bathroom for non-stop protection.

Depending on the manufacturer, some models can work up to 100 or a few hundred feet from the base unit or console.

Wireless units, however, can work virtually from anywhere, providing more flexibility and freedom of movement. Wireless or mobile units work outside the home and are ideal for seniors with more active lifestyles.

Do you live alone, worry about getting help when you have a medical emergency, or need more assurance of your safety? Take advantage of panic buttons for seniors for your comfort and peace of mind.

Fill out the form on this page to compare your options for the best panic buttons and save time and money!

Types of Panic Buttons and their features

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Like any product in the market, finding the right panic button that suits you needs will need some research on your part.

You see, there are several types, brands, and prices and not all of them will be a good fit. You will need to think about your health, living situation and environment, support system, and risks to find the perfect match.

Monitored vs. non-monitored panic buttons

When looking for a panic button for seniors, you will surely come across 2 types – monitored and non-monitored systems.

It is critical to decide whether you need monitoring services or not. Firstly, your level of care and response depends on it. Secondly, it will mean paying monthly fees or not.

What are non-monitored panic buttons?

A non-monitored panic button is independent, meaning, it connects only to 3-10 pre-programmed numbers, depending on the system chosen. When the panic button is pushed, it automatically dials these numbers until the call is answered. It can dial 911, relatives, or friends. Since it is unmonitored, its reliability depends on the contacts selected.

There is no support system outside of your selected contacts. If they fail to answer your summons, assistance can be delayed or not arrive at all. Thus, there is a big risk, especially if it is a medical emergency.

These contacts have the responsibility of attending to the user’s emergency needs or contacting the appropriate emergency service.

For a non-monitored system, the user will buy the device outright but there will be no monthly charges or contract.

What are monitored panic buttons?

In contrast, a monitored panic button is hooked to a certified and qualified monitoring center in Canada with 24-7 operations.

This means that any time a user sends an alert by pushing the panic button, a trained professional is ready to assist. They work round-the-clock to give 24/7 assistance and protection.

Monitored panic buttons offer home systems and wireless systems to give users more choices in terms of function and price. They also offer other advanced features such as automatic fall detection, GPS tracking, geo-fencing, medication dispenser, etc.

Monitored panic buttons have different prices and plans. Some need to be purchased outright with monthly monitoring fees. Other companies offer a lease on the device with monthly fees.

You can find the right plan that meets your needs and budget.

Types of monitored panic buttons

Standard Home-based Panic Buttons are usually connected to a landline. They can be anywhere in the home as long as it is within the system’s range. It is ideal for seniors and at-risk individuals who stay home most of the time.

This is the most affordable panic button with monitoring. The system you choose must offer a range that is suitable to the size of your home to make sure you can get protection anywhere in the home.

Some home systems offer fall detection as well but it is optional. If you choose the plan with fall detection, it will cost a little more than a basic plan.

Home and Yard systems offer a little more flexibility than the basic system. A user can still use the panic button up to the yard. Keep in mind that these systems will still have a maximum range from the console.

Wireless systems can be used in the home and outdoors. They work anywhere there is a cellular signal. Wireless or mobile systems give you access to emergency services in the home and outside the home, making it the system of choice for active seniors.

Mobile panic buttons offer additional features for enhanced protection. With automatic fall detection, a monitoring center is alerted to a potential fall even when the user fails to push the button. It can also have GPS tracking which allows the user to be located at any time and receive assistance quickly.

Fall detectors are panic buttons that can automatically detect if a user has fallen. Because falls are a serious risk for seniors, this technology is especially useful for individuals with a history of falls or a fear of falling. With fall detection, a user can get emergency or medical assistance without pushing the button such as when the senior has fallen unconscious or injured.

These innovative and reliable technologies provide superior protection to seniors and at-risk individuals, giving peace of mind even to their loved ones.

To find the best panic button for your needs, fill out the form on this page and receive FREE and NO-OBLIGATION quotes.

Key benefits of monitoring services for panic buttons

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When you are shopping for a panic button, you will find systems that come with monthly monitoring services. The next logical question would be whether you need monitoring services. Why do you need to pay monthly for this service?

The best panic buttons are those that are connected to qualified and certified monitoring centers staffed with trained professionals. They operate non-stop and serve customers day and night.

This is important because it assures you that whatever day or time you have a medical emergency and press your panic button, someone will be on the other end without delay.

In a medical emergency, every second matters, especially in life and death situations. Have you ever heard of someone lying on the floor for hours, even days, before someone arrives to help? With a monitored panic button, this will never happen.

Monitoring services provide the following valuable features:

·        24/7 emergency assistance

·         Can contact family members in non-medical emergencies

·         Trained professionals stay on the line until help arrives

·         GPS tracking for seniors who wander or are at risk of wandering

·         Back-up monitoring centers in case of power or other technical problems such as during natural disasters

·         Low monthly fees

Some companies require locked-in periods (2 years) while others offer month-to-month contracts with free cancellation.

When shopping for a monitored panic button, make sure to check the following:

·         Outright purchase, lease, or free device

·         Installation and activation fees

·         Length of contract

·         Termination fees

Start comparing offers today using our free online form to save time and money!

Do you need fall detection?

Fall detection is a technology that uses specific parameters to detect a fall. Panic buttons with fall detection employ this capability to get help fast and automatically to a senior. It allows a monitoring center to identify a potential fall and send help even if the user fails to push the button.

Fall detection systems have sensors that are activated after someone suffers a fall. If a senior becomes unconscious, can’t move or talk, or becomes disoriented and does not remember to use the panic button, help will still arrive FAST!

How do fall detectors work?

Sensors. These systems make use of accelerometers (radio wave sensors) to monitor the user’s movements. Patented algorithms are used to measure these movements based on speed, height, and compare with normal movements to recognize a fall.

These sensors evaluate the user’s physical activity, smoothness of motion, and body position. When the device determines that a possible fall has occurred, it activates an alert to the monitoring center so that an agent can immediately assist.

Each company uses its own fall detection technology and some may be superior to others.

Accuracy. Many of our movements are routine and can be accurately detected by fall detection. Their parameters are calibrated while the user is wearing the device. In some instances when a fall occurs slowly (such as sliding off the bed or sofa onto the floor), the technology may not detect it and would require the user to press the button to get help.

Fall detection technology is not 100% fail-proof but it has a very high accuracy (92% to 97%.) It can be a life-saving feature for:

·         Individuals with a history of falling

·         Those with medical conditions that put them at risk of falling

·         Seniors taking prescription medications with side effects

·         Seniors with balance issues or mobility issues

 

No-fault false alerts. Mistakes and accidents can always happen. If a monitoring center receives a false alert, just let the operator know that you don’t need assistance. No harm done.

Falls: #1 Threat to Seniors Living Independently

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When a child takes a fall, he can be back up in a minute, with not much harm done. With seniors, however, consequences of a fall can be devastating.

Seniors become slower to react, their bones become more brittle, skin easier to bruise, and deficits in sight and hearing make them less conscious of dangers.

All of these factors can lead to life-threatening injuries. According to Statistics Canada, 1 in 3 seniors aged 65 or older suffer a fall each year. Falls also account for many hospitalizations for seniors due to injuries.

As we age, the possibility of falling also increases. An estimated 17% of seniors from 65 to 69 years old report a fall and this figure jumps to 27% for seniors aged 65 and above.

Thankfully, panic buttons with fall detection can detect falls when they occur and can make sure medical assistance is received promptly to increase the chances of recovery.

Factors that increase the risk of falls among seniors

 Certain factors and medical conditions increase the risk of falls. Health professionals are trained to recognize these risks and can recommend solutions to mitigate the risks for specific patients. Many health specialists recommend the use of a monitored panic button for seniors living independently and those in assisted living facilities.

If you have a loved one with the following conditions, he may be at risk.

·         Neuropathy

·         Balance issues

·         Muscle weakness and joint pain

·         Blood pressure issues, heart disease, or thyroid

·         Vision and hearing impairment

·         Taking multiple prescription medications

The cost of falls to elderly persons

Seniors who fall along with their families experience significant implications, financially and emotionally.

With thousands of seniors hospitalized each year due to broken hips, head trauma, and other injuries, the road to recovery is usually long, expensive, and challenging.

Researchers have placed the direct cost of falls for elderly persons at about $34 billion a year. The average cost of a fall-related hospitalization is about $35,000.

But aside from the financial cost, the psychological and emotional consequences of a fall can also be devastating. Seniors develop a fear of falling again and may feel less inclined to go back to their physical routine and social activities. This can lead to a loss of physical conditioning and depression or social isolation.

The response time after a fall is critical. The time spent by a senior feeling helpless is important as research shows that seniors not found until 72 hours had passed had a higher chance of dying or suffering serious injuries.

We can never completely eliminate the risk of falls among seniors and no fall detection system can work 100% all the time. But the risk of falls can be reduced and its consequences mitigated with the combination of a panic button system and a good support system from family or caregivers.

Panic buttons with fall detection offer multiple layers of protection to seniors who are at risk of falls and other personal or medical emergencies.

 

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Activity Monitoring: Essential for Seniors Living Alone

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Activity monitoring is an essential feature offered by premium medical alert systems. The purpose of this service is to make sure that a senior is moving around during the day.

Why is this essential? We want to know when there is inactivity because it can be a strong indicator that something is wrong. When a senior is living alone in the home, activity monitoring assures family members that all is well.  Even if a senior is wearing a panic button, an accident can occur and render him unable to move or push the button to call for help.

This feature avoids scenarios wherein a person has been hurt, unconscious, or even dead, for hours or days before he is found. While situations such as these are too difficult to think about, the risks are very real and do happen.

With the additional protection of activity monitoring, seniors and their families will not worry so much about being alone at home.

Top Panic Buttons for seniors and their cost

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As we get older, we face challenges that included limitations in our movements, memory loss, weakening muscles, poor eyesight and hearing, etc. 

Seniors have to deal with these challenges daily and having a safety net such as a panic button is necessary.

 

We have put together a list of the top panic buttons in Canada for you to consider. This guide can help you understand their features and their prices to enable you to find the best match for your needs.

SECURMEDIC

SecurMedic is a personal emergency response system that aim to help seniors remain independent with peace of mind and confidence.

They provide a lifeline in an emergency through a panic button worn around the neck or wrist. Their devices also have 24/7 monitoring services, built-in 2-way voice communication, and no long-term contract.

The company offers 3 plans – SmartSafe for home use, SmartSafe with Fall Detection Plus, and SmartSafe Fall Detection.

All plans require a landline and prices start at $25 monthly with no hidden fees.

Telus Direct Alert

Direct Alert was purchased by Telus last 2019. The company offers medical alert systems with personalized customer care.

Their systems are available in 3 plans: At Home Classic (requires a landline) ft; cellular series (for homes without a landline), and on-the-go systems with fall detection. The classic system works up to 1,000 ft. while the cellular system works up to 600 ft.

The devices are waterproof and can be plugged into any phone line. The company has no installation and activation fees and no contract. They even offer a money-back guarantee.

Their plans cost $25 for the classic plan, $35 for the cellular series, and $55 for the mobile plan.

Galaxy Medical Alert Systems

This company has been a leading provider of independent living for seniors in North America.  Their latest offering is a personal emergency response system.

Their monitoring center is staffed by emergency operators trained to handle all types of emergencies and can speak a variety of languages.  In fact, they have CSAA 5-star rated call centers, a testament to their outstanding performance.

Their packages include a Home system, Home and yard system, Fall detection system, cellular system, a mobile system with fall detection, and mobile system with GPS.

The plans start at $29.95 monthly and their most advanced plan costs $49.95 a month. The company charges a one-time device fee for the fall detection system

Life Assure

As a Canadian company, Life Assure is focused on providing seniors with medical alert devices to keep them safe and allow them to live independently.  Their systems can be connected to a landline, cable, VOIP, or cellular technology.

The company offers 3 plans – Life Assure Classic Home, Life Assure Total Home (cellular), and Life Assure Premium Mobile Plus. They all have 2-way voice systems and back-up power but the mobile plan has fall detection capability.

The company does not require a long-term contract, has no activation or installation fees, and offers a risk-free program.

Their classic package costs $29.95, the Total Home package costs $44.95 a month, and the premium mobile package costs $69.95 a month.

Global Security

Global Security is a leading provider of home and business security solutions in Canada. One of their most recent offerings is the Numera Libris medical alert system from Nortek.

This personal alarm system comes in the form of a pendant or bracelet which you can choose when you purchase. You also have the option to buy the PERS Numera Libris or the PERS Numera Libris + EverThere, a powerful software to help manage the user’s health information.

 

Global Security medical alert systems are monitored by high-quality monitoring centers that comply with ULC standards. They also offer the most advanced fall detection system with high accuracy and almost zero fall alarm.

The basic package costs $34.99 (36-month contract) while the GSM Fall Detector Package is $379.99 + $99.00 activation. The button costs $79.00.

 

Philips Lifeline

The Philips Lifeline medical alert system offers a comprehensive emergency response system through their HomeSafe Basic, HomeSafe with Auto Alert and GoSafe 2 plans.


Their services also include a caregiver’s digital platform named Philips Cares. Their systems are also compatible with automatic fall detection and GPS tracking.


This company offers monthly monitoring services although unlike other companies, their monitoring centers are not TMA Five Diamond certified.  Their monthly fees are also slightly higher at $29.95 for the HomeSafe Standard Plan and $44.95 for the GoSafe 2. You will also pay $50 for activation.

 

When choosing your medical alert system, it is advisable to check on the following?

 

 

·         How much is the total price for the device, monthly fees, installation and activation fees?

·         Is the company’s monitoring center/s UL certified or TMA Five Diamond certified?

·         Is there a penalty for terminating the contract?

·         How long is the required contract?

·         What is the range of the system? (it must be suitable to the size of your house)

·         Is the device waterproof or water-resistant?

·         How long is the back-up battery? (essential in case there is no power after a natural disaster)

 

You can compare multiple offers from reliable panic button companies serving your area.
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