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A Medic Alert Saves Young People Too!

I’m appropriate for a “Medic Alert?”

But, I’m not falling and I’m not old!

When you think about a “medic alert,” you typically think of an “elder person who is falling.”  This, of course, is because the industry has trained us to think that way!  (ie “Help!  …I can’t get up!”)

The following CDC statistics also supports that idea: 

  • 1 in 3 Seniors (65+) WILL FALL this year!  
  • 50% of those who fall CANNOT get back up….
  • Two-thirds of those that fall will do so again within 6 months.  
  • The chances of surviving a fall are 6 times greater IF the person is found within the hour.
  • Falls are the leading cause of death from injury among people 65 and older.

With those scary statistics, therefore, it’s no wonder that we have reinforcement to confirm the thought that you have to be elderly AND falling to be appropriate for a “button.”  We ALL know that.  Right?  Right!

However, did you ever stop to think that you don’t have to be elderly and/or falling to be appropriate?  

The Leading Causes of Death are Fairly Consistent.

Did you know, for instance, that approximately 74% of all deaths in the United States occur as a result of only 10 causes? The 2019 data from the Center for Disease Control (CDC) suggests that the main causes of death in the U.S. have remained fairly consistent. They are as follows:

  1. Heart disease
  2. Cancer
  3. Unintentional injuries (Accidents)
  4. Chronic lower respiratory disease
  5. Stroke and cerebrovascular diseases
  6. Alzheimer’s disease
  7. Diabetes
  8. Kidney disease
  9. Influenza and pneumonia
  10. Suicide

So, when you consider all of the above “causes of death,” you realize that most have no age requirement

At this point, let us take a moment to think about individuals in our lives who could potentially benefit from the peace of mind a PERS (Personal Emergency Response System) provides. A medic alert SAVES LIVES!  

Unfortunately, Death Can Occur at Any Age.

Thus, our focus is on individuals who have health issues that would warrant immediate medical attention in an emergent situation — regardless of age!  In an emergency, therefore, being able to get help quickly could be the difference between life and death! 

Likewise, Medical Conditions Can Occur at Any Age.

Collectively, we can explore this sad, but true, fact. Unfortunately, we do not have to be old to be sick!

Heart Disease is the leading cause of death for both men and women — in the U.S. and worldwide.

Cancer is a risk to everyone to a degree, but for most cancers, the risk will increase with age.

Accidents, or unintentional injuries, are the leading cause of death for those aged 1–44.

Chronic lower respiratory disease refers to a group of lung conditions that block the airflow and cause breathing-related issues. These diseases include:

  • chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
  • bronchitis
  • emphysema
  • asthma

Cerebrovascular diseases develop due to problems with the blood vessels that supply the brain. The four most common cerebrovascular diseases are stroke, transient ischemic attack, or mini stroke, subarachnoid hemorrhage, and vascular dementia.

Dementia refers to a group of conditions that cause a decline in cognitive function. This affects a person’s ability to perform everyday activities. In turn, this can lead to changes in memory, behavior, and the ability to think clearly. Alzheimers disease is just one type of dementia. Alzheimer’s is also the only cause of death in the top 10 that medical experts cannot cure, prevent, or slow down.

Diabetes is a condition wherein the body can no longer control blood glucose, which leads to dangerously high levels of blood glucose. This is called hyperglycemia. It can cause serious health complications, including heart disease, blindness, kidney failure, and the need for amputation of the lower extremities.

Influenza, or flu, is a highly contagious viral infection. It is one of the most severe illnesses of the winter season. Pneumonia, a serious condition that causes inflammation of the lungs, can cause complications in people who have the flu.

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) causes kidney damage. Damaged kidneys cannot filter blood as well as healthy kidneys. As a result of this, waste from the blood remains in the body and may lead to other health problems.

When a person dies by suicide, they may or may not have lived with a mental health condition — such as depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder — for a long time. Sadly, suicide is the second-leading cause of death among people aged 10-34 years.

But, I’m Too Young to Need a Medic Alert!

Do you, or someone you know, have any of the aforementioned health conditions?  

After considering the fact that a medic alert system could help ANYONE at ANY AGE to maintain their safety AND independence, wouldn’t it would be ideal to put that protection in place? Remember, in closing, that EVEN IF YOU CANNOT SPEAK, you can get help simply by pushing your button!!!

Around the Clock Medical Alarms has been a medic alert system provider since 2012.  

In closing, let us help you, or someone you know — Around the Clock — regardless of age!

 

 

National Pie Day: January 23, 2021

Two weeks ago, I went to visit one of our clients who is a farmer. Harlan, has cows, sheep, barn cats, and a beagle-mixed (aka “mutt”) female dog named “Buddy” that he tends to daily.
 
While there, I noticed that he had a Wal-Mart sack of cracked pecans — that he was eating as fast as he could shell. I sat there and visited and we managed to get them all picked from the shell. When we finished, he asked if I knew how to make a pecan pie. “Of course,” I replied. He asked if he could send enough nuts for me to make 20 pies — to which I stated that I’d be happy to make two…. A few days later I dropped off two pies that were from the nuts we shelled together.
 
On January 23, 2021, appropriately enough, Harlan called and I asked him how he liked the pies. In the fashion of a two-year-old kid (instead of an 88-year-old man) he enthusiastically replied, “They were gooder than good!” What an awesome slice of humble pie!!!! This totally made my day…!
 

If you or an aging loved-one are considering choosing Medical Alarms in St. Louis MO, please contact the friendly staff at Around The Clock Medical Alarms.
Call Us: 877.449.5566

5 Home Safety Tips for Recent Surgery Patients

Recovery after surgery is vital and ensuring safety post-operation is a critical step. Preparing the home and taking a few precautions will be a lifeline for those who have recently been discharged from the hospital. Here are five tips.

Tips for Recovering Safely After Surgery

1. Stock Up

Whether you will be on a restricted diet after your procedure or you will have limited mobility, a stocked freezer and pantry will help. Prepare meals ahead of time and freeze them, and make sure to have nonperishable staples in the cupboard, so you have plenty of options. Good nutrition is vital for your recovery, making a well-stocked kitchen a top step.

2. Consider Home Care

You may need help with a variety of tasks after surgery, from bathing to changing bandages. Look into a home caregiver or visiting nurse who can assist with certain necessities in the few days after you get home. Always set up the first appointment before you leave the hospital, so there is no gap in care.

3. Stay on the First Floor

lifelineIf your home has multiple levels, move onto the first floor for the duration of your recovery. Set up a sleeping area, so you don’t have to go up and down stairs, and make sure to have easy access to essentials like a bathroom.

4. Boost Safety

Remove clutter, so there is nothing in your way that can cause falls or injuries, especially if moving about is more difficult post-surgery. Set up nightlights for moving in the dark, and wear slippers, flat shoes, or socks with non-skid grips on the bottom to reduce slip risks. Also, consider adding a shower seat and handrails in the bathroom for extra safety, as well as lifeline equipment like medical alert necklaces in case something happens while you are alone.

5. Ask About Limitations

Speak with your doctor to learn what you can and can’t do, and how long you must wait to return to your regular activity. Ask about driving, traveling, and returning to work. Also, find out about possible side effects to watch for and what to do if you feel them, such as fever, pain, nausea, dizziness, and lethargy.

If you or a loved one has recently been released from the hospital after surgery, you want to ensure safety at all costs. That is where Around the Clock Medical Alarms in Cape Girardeau, MO, comes in. Their goal is to help individuals stay secure and independent in their own space by way of their medical alarm systems. These personal items are small and waterproof but have a range the size of three football fields to guarantee you have a lifeline when you need it most. Their knowledgeable team also provides 24-hour customer service, so you have a friendly, personal emergency response system any time of day. Call (573) 334-7233 for more on their medical alert bracelets and necklaces, or visit their website for more on their productsimage

 

A Guide to Being a Productive Caregiver

As you reach adulthood, there may come a time when an aging parent will need daily assistance to enjoy a healthy and comfortable life. Becoming a caregiver for a sick or elderly loved one can require habit changes and the adoption of medical alarms and life alert systems when you’re away. For those individuals transitioning into a caregiver role, here’s some helpful information so you can be successful and supportive. 

Understanding How to Be a Great Caregiver

What Roles & Responsibilities Will You Take on Caring for a Sick or Elderly Parent?

Caregivers for senior citizens may be called upon to assist with a variety of tasks. While your general roles and responsibilities can change based on your loved one’s health, most caregivers will schedule doctor’s visits, pay bills, pick up and manage medication, provide light housekeeping,  plan meals and exercise, do laundry, and help with grooming needs such as brushing hair and dressing.

cape-Girardeau-medical-alarmWhen entering a caregiver relationship with an aging loved one, it’s important to maintain open, honest, and respectful lines of communication. Set boundaries as necessary so you don’t feel overwhelmed by their dependence on you. When necessary, seek support and outside assistance from professional organizations that can offer tips and product recommendations that will make your caregiver responsibilities easier.  

What Tools Can You Embrace for Safety & Peace of Mind?

Whether you live with your senior loved one or you keep a separate home, ensuring their living spaces are safe should be a top priority. Inspect their room and communal areas to identify any problems or hazards that could lead to injury or slips and falls. Investing in a medical alarm that they can push if they need immediate assistance is highly recommended. Medical alert necklaces, medical alarms, and life alert systems that include reminder calls confirm your senior loved one always has immediate access to medical care when needed. These tools, as well as grab bars for sitting and standing transitions, medication organizers, and nonslip rugs and mats can give you added peace of mind and promote a safe and convenient home for your aging parent.

If you’re a caregiver looking for ways to keep your loved one safe, Around the Clock Medical Alarms has you covered. Based in Cape Girardeau, MO, this family-oriented company specializes in waterproof medical alarms, life alert systems, and medical alert necklaces, so clients always have access to medical care with the push of a button. With 24-hour customer support and prompt responders who provide help in a matter of seconds, these tools will give you the peace of mind you’re looking for. To discuss their products, call today at (573) 334-7233. For more information on their company history and to read testimonials from satisfied customers, visit their website

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Top 3 Reasons to Spend Time with the Grandkids this Summer

Summer Fun has Just Begun!

The grandkids are out of school and looking for fun in the sun. Just because  they are out of school, doesn’t mean they should take a break from learning about the world and their place in it.  What better way for them to learn than from their elder family members – who have the most experience at life?

The benefits of sharing time together, to both grandkids and grandparents,  is overwhelmingly positive! It has been found that spending time with “the grands” can help to foster the following:  increased socialism through active lifestyle, boosts to morale and cognition, as well as ultimately strengthening the bond of families.

1.  Increased Socialization through Active Lifestyle

When you participate in activities to entertain and teach your children’s children, you, undoubtedly, increase your own activity.  Regardless of whether you are taking them to the park or zoo, making cookies or crafts, or playing games, such as hide and seek, you are reducing your sedentary tendencies by decreasing inactivity.

According to the U.S. National Library of Medicine, “Having an inactive lifestyle can be one of the causes of many chronic diseases. By not getting regular exercise, you raise your risk of

Having a sedentary lifestyle can also raise your risk of premature death. And the more sedentary you are, the higher your health risks are.”

Additionally, Silver Maples of Chelsea, a retirement neighborhood, noted “while exercise is extremely important for a high quality of life, the connections you make with others and the relationships you continue to build also have a major impact on your overall wellness.” Therefore, the benefit of exercising and socializing are important to our health and wellbeing, regardless of our age, but especially to the senior populous.

2. Boosts to Morale and Cognition

Taking care of your physical health can benefit your mental health!  Who knew that doing activities with our grandchildren, as well as with others, could help us to maintain healthy bodies and minds? 

This fact is further supported by the National Institute of Aging, when they indicated that “Connecting with other people through social activities and community programs can keep your brain active and help you feel less isolated and more engaged with the world around you. Participating in social activities may lower the risk for some health problems and improve well-being.

So, visit with family and friends. Join programs through your Area Agency on Aging, senior center, or other community organizations.

We don’t know for sure yet if any of these actions can prevent or delay Alzheimer’s disease and age–related cognitive decline. But some of them have been associated with reduced risk of cognitive impairment and dementia.”

Additionally, according to the National Institute on Aging, “people who engage in meaningful, productive activities with others tend to live longer, boost their mood, and have a sense of purpose.” (Yet another affirmation of how our relationships with our grandchildren, and others, help us to live longer, healthier, lives!)

3. Strengthening the Bond of Families

Finally, Rudy Giuliani said it best when he said, “What children need the most are the essentials that grandparents provide in abundance. They give unconditional love, kindness, patience, humor, comfort, and lessons in life.”

In closing, the following link, https://considerable.com/100-things-to-do-with-your-grandchild-th/, gives ideas for 100 things to do with your grandchild this summer. (This article originally appeared on grandparents.com) In the words of Considerable.com, “Get ready to have some fun in the sun. There’s something for every grandparent and grandchild on our list of oh-so-simple summer activities.”

Enjoy the summer, create memories with those grandchildren, and be safeimage

 

Allow Us to Introduce Ourselves….

A Medical Alert is NOT ONLY for an Elder Person Who Falls!

Worry Free

Worrying about an elderly loved one or one that suffers from a chronic illness is normal. Reduce your anxiety with state-of-the-art medical alert systems from Around the Clock Medical Alarms in Cape Girardeau, MO. These products make it safer for elderly or ill individuals to live independently in their own homes, giving their loved ones peace of mind.

Stay Safe

Keep your loved one safe and sound with this medical alert system. Their small and discreet personal help button can be worn as a bracelet or a necklace. When your loved one presses the panic button, they will immediately be put in touch with the response center, and the responder will stay in contact with the user until help has arrived. All equipment, including medical alert bracelets and necklaces and the cellular or landline base units, comes with a lifetime warranty. Feel free to ask about monitored and unmonitored medication dispensers as well.

EMD Certified Response

Their emergency response center prides themselves on the qualifications of their staff, all of whom are trained and certified Emergency Medical Dispatch specialists, who are available 24/7, 365. All responders are prompt with their communication, answering all calls within 22 seconds and alerting police, the fire department, and family and friends, depending on the situation. They can also transfer you to a language line that features translators in over 150 languages. 

Peace of Mind

Give yourself and your loved ones true peace of mind with a medical alert system from Around the Clock Medical Alarms. Visit them online or call (877) 449-5566 for more information.

                               

Around The Clock Medical Alarms

1353 N Mount Auburn Rd

Cape Girardeau, MO 63701

Direct:  (573) 334-7233 or Toll Free:  (877) 449-5566

https://aroundtheclockmedicalalarms.com

Business Hours:

Mon 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Tue 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Wed 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Thu 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Fri 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

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What You Should Know Before Buying a Medical Alarm

Medical alarms aren’t just for the elderly who fall. If a loved one in your family has been recently diagnosed with a medical illness, injured, or undergone surgery, an alert system is a smart investment in their safety, security and recovery. Knowing they can get help when needed provides the assurance they need to continue living independently. Find out what to consider when shopping for a medical alarm below.

How They Work

medical alarmThe system user wears a personal help button (PHB) as a necklace or bracelet. If they need assistance, they push the alarm’s panic button.  All Around the Clock Medical Alarms subscribers are immediately connected to a monitoring member of a team of certified Emergency Medical Dispatchers (EMD) who are able to dispatch your family, friends, fire, ambulance and/or police to respond to any emergency situation. The system allows for fast action and ensures people get assistance –  even if they’re physically incapacitated or unable to speak. 

What to Look For

Look for devices that are durable and warrantied.  There are many providers of this type of service, but not all are created equal.

You want 24/7 access to live emergency response teams. Opt for providers, like Around the Clock Medical Alarms, who staff their call centers with EMD-certified professionals. They have the same training as 911 operators and can promptly recognize life-threatening situations and provide lifesaving information until help arrives. 

Additionally, look for customer service, which includes monthly device testing as well as a personalized file for each client with details like the user’s birthday, medications, allergies, and medical health conditions. This is extremely important, because if you are unable to speak, they can relay your information, on your behalf, to those who respond to your emergency.

Finally, elect to utilize companies who do not require long-term contracts.  None of us have a crystal ball or time ticker above our heads.  Thus, we are not certain how long we would need this kind of service….  Around the Clock Medical Alarms is here to help you for as little (or much) as you need – even for a short term, while you are getting your strength back, following an elective surgery, illness, and/or hospital stay.

  • Around The Clock Medical Alarmsa nationwide PERS provider, has been providing concerned families with top-quality medical alerts for eight years. Their innovative alarms, which can be worn around the neck or on the wrist, are waterproof and have a range of up to three football fields. Their EMD-certified team is available 24/7 to provide personalized support and dispatch emergency crews to provide lifesaving care when life-threatening emergencies arise. Find out more about their products online. If you have questions, call (573) 334-7233.

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Why Your Elderly Parent Needs a Medical Alarm

As your parents age, they’ll require more help from caregivers, doctors, and their children to stay safe and remain independent. However, even with the best care, your loved one won’t be completely safe without a medical alarm. Here’s why. 

Why Get Your Aging Parent a Medical Alarm? 

A medical alarm will enhance the safety of your parent by keeping them in constant contact with medical professionals. If an accident occurs, they’ll receive immediate medical attention, potentially saving their life in an emergency, such as a heart attack, fall, or stroke.

medical alarmYour loved one won’t have to limit their activities due to fears of falling or other health risks; they’ll feel confident knowing that a professional will be there to help. Finally, having an alarm could end the need for a mobile phone, especially if your loved one rarely uses one. This will save you money on an unnecessary line. 

How Do Medical Alarms Work? 

A button is worn on your loved one’s wrist or neck, allowing the system to monitor the home electronically. If your parent presses the button, an emergency signal will be sent to the base unit and then to the phone line. Next, a medical professional will answer via the base unit, which functions as a speaker phone. Your loved one will be able to explain the situation so that help can be sent. If your parent is unable to respond, medical professionals will be automatically dispatched.  

 

If you live in Cape Girardeau County, MO, and want to learn more about medical alarms, bracelets, and necklaces for your loved one, contact Around the Clock Medical Alarms to discuss your parents’ needs. Their specialists will answer your questions, explain how the technology works, and direct you to the best solutions for your family. For more information about their products and services, visit their website. Call (877) 449-5566 to speak to a member of their team. 

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Does My Senior Loved One Need a Medic Alert Button?

These days, cell phones have taken over numerous aspects of our lives—they fulfill the role of a watch, calculator, notepad, and computer all in one pocket-sized device. However, when it comes to notifying first responders in the event of an emergency, they may not be the best choice for your senior loved one. Here are just some of the reasons why it pays to invest in a medic alert button instead.

3 Reasons Medic Alert Systems Beat Cell Phones in Emergencies

1. Immediate Identification

When you call 911 and are connected to a dispatcher, they will ask a number of questions to try and find out who is calling, what happened to them, and how severe their injuries may be. The ONLY information that they MAY KNOW is the name, address, and phone number of the account holder from caller ID. In a medical emergency, unfortunately, injured seniors may not be in a position to communicate effectively.

A medic alert system, however, will have all pertinent information pertaining to your loved one on file, ready to relay to the authorities who respond, so all your loved one has to do is “push a button” to get the help they need ~ even if they are unable to speak!

2. Simplistic Design

The small buttons of a cell phone—whether it’s touchscreen or not—are notorious for causing typos among users of all ages. If you’re a senior with limited eyesight, a tremor, or mobility issues, it’s even harder to use your device to craft a text message, enter a passcode, or type in a phone number. If your loved one is injured, it may be near impossible.

Luckily, a medic alert system only requires a single push of the button, so the subscriber can readily and easily get the help they need.

medic alert

3. Peace of Mind

The small buttons of a cell phone—whether it’s touchscreen or not—are notorious for causing typos among users of all ages. If you’re a senior with limited eyesight, a tremor, or mobility issues, it’s even harder to use your device to craft a text message, enter a passcode, or type in a phone number. If your loved one is experiencing a medical emergency or are injured, it may be near impossible.

Luckily, a “medic alert” system only requires the push of a single button, so your aging loved one can easily get the help they need – Around the Clock.

If you’re convinced a cell phone is not enough in the event of an accident, contact Around The Clock Medical Alarms. They are proud to provide simple personal help buttons that your loved one can wear as a bracelet or necklace, on their person, so they can get help any time. To learn more about their life-saving design, visit the website. You can also call (877) 449-5566 to learn more about their Emergency Medical Dispatch Certified Response Centerimage

 

5 Tips for Talking to a Loved One About Moving In With You

As loved ones age, their safety and wellness become a principal concern. From purchasing medical alarms to hiring part-time caretakers, there are many ways to help an aging parent. If you decide to ask them to settle into your home, handle the discussion tactfully. Although approaching the subject may seem a bit daunting, here are a few tips to open the dialogue.

How to Discuss Moving an Elderly Loved One Into Your Home

1. Don’t Rush the Conversation

Convincing a parent to make a major life change is unlikely to happen during a quick exchange. Wait for an opportunity to bring the topic up when you can talk face-to-face without interruption. This conversation demands your full attention.

2. Listen to Their Concerns

You’ll probably encounter some pushback, but instead of dismissing your parent’s concerns, take the time to hear them out. They may fear they’ll lose independence, have to change daily routines, or be a burden. Ease their concerns by coming up with fair solutions. 

3. Describe Your Worries

medical alarmsUse the conversation to address your concerns, too. Although a medical alarm ensures access to emergency help, you may be worried about your parent’s overall health. From providing nutritious meals to helping with laundry and errands, moving in together will allow you to ease their workload.

4. Revisit the Topic

If your loved one remains resistant, table the topic. Consider broaching the subject when a sibling can be present to support your points. Invite your parent for an extended stay. After they spend time with you at home, they may see the value of living together.

5. Reach Common Ground

To encourage your parent to warm to the idea, talk about how you would modify your home to fit their needs. For example, you could give them free rein over a spare bathroom and access to your at-home office to quilt and sew. As long as they agree to keep their medical alarm on hand when you’re out, the new arrangement should satisfy everyone involved.

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