Medical alert systems can be lifesavers

Most people have seen the ads on television that promote home safety for the elderly by buying a pendant that will allow the wearer to press a button to get emergency help. What many may not know is that service is available for Wiregrass residents through a local company.

Three years ago, Harris Security Systems launched a campaign to alert the community as to the availability of the Personal Emergency Reporting System in the Wiregrass. What sets this program apart from those advertised nationally is that it is handled by a local representative, Susan Woods. She believes that personal connection helps to allay any fears the potential client and family members may have.

To get started, Ms. Woods says it is necessary for a checklist/fall assessment to be made in the client’s home. Suggestions may be made as to how to improve the living environment to eliminate potential hazards, especially for the elderly.

“During this assessment we also gather contact names, family members, friends, neighbors, that the client may want notified in an emergency,” Ms. Woods said. “We also get medical information ahead of time to have ready for the emergency services personnel who will respond to the call for help.”

The equipment consists of two parts. The base, which is about the size of an answering machine, will be connected to an electrical outlet (with a battery-operated system for back-up) and a phone jack. The second piece is the waterproof pendant that can be worn as a necklace or on a wristband. The choice is left up to the individual user.

“The unit, which we will install, is leased from us,” Ms. Woods said. “I go over its operation with the client. I will also leave my business card with the client, so they have a personal contact. If they have any questions that come to mind later, they can call me. I’m passionate about helping the elderly. I personally make sure the client is comfortable with the unit after it is installed.”

The unit has a range of 250 feet, which allows senior adults more freedom of movement. Each home is different, however, so the pendant should be tested to gauge the actual distance from which it will activate the base unit.

“They can work outside in their yard or garden or walk to the mailbox,” Ms. Woods said.

The primary advantage, however, of the PERS program can’t be measured in dollars and cents.

“This program allows an individual to stay at home alone while providing peace of mind for their family members,” Ms. Woods said. “Many of our clients don’t have family members here to watch over them.”

Instead, the PERS does it for them.

“They are monitored 24/7 without someone actually being there with them,” Ms. Woods continued.

Once the client presses the button on the pendant, the company’s call center in Birmingham answers. The call center has the client’s information in a database and can supply that information to the emergency personnel that responds.

“When the button is pressed, the client will talk to a person,” Ms. Woods added.

Ann Varnum, host of “The Morning Show” on WTVY, knows firsthand how important the system is. She provided the following testimonial for use by Harris Security Systems.

“The day before Mother had her aneurism, she was wearing a medical alert pendant and was able to push the button and immediately get help. The paramedics were there. It allowed her, at almost 91, to live alone and have quality care.”

Falling in the home, Ms. Woods notes, is the third leading cause of death. Getting help quickly holds the key in whether the injuries suffered as a result of the fall cause death.

“The information that we gather during the assessment is made available to the rescue unit,” Ms. Woods said. “Time is crucial, especially in a fall. The first hour after a fall is critical. Time is of the essence in that type of situation. That’s why this machine is so important.”

There is another advantage to having PERS.

“If a senior hears someone breaking in, they can press the button for help,” Ms. Woods said. “Even though all calls go in as medical responses, the person answering the call will know, based on information provided by the client, what type of assistance is needed.”

For more information about the PERS program offered by Harris Security Systems, contact Susan Woods at 798-9766.