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Medical Alert Systems and Other Ways to Help Seniors During Coronavirus

We are in the middle of a pandemic and that means the information is constantly changing. Coronavirus (COVID-19) is still relatively new, which means we are still learning all of the details. It can be challenging to stay on top of what you need to do in order to keep yourself and loved ones safe and healthy during this time.

What we do know for sure right now is that staying at home, social distancing, washing your hands often, and avoiding touching your face are the most effective ways to help stop the spread of the coronavirus.

While social distancing can feel scary for older adults, who are living at home alone, it does not have to be. There are a lot of things that you can do to make yourself not only feel prepared for any situation, but you may be able to help others as well.

Update contact information

Make sure that you have collected all of the current phone numbers for anyone you would want to contact in an emergency. In addition to making an updated list of people and their information, make sure they have your number as well. Keep this list somewhere safe that can be seen or accessed easily.

Stock up

Check to make sure that your medications are current and stocked up. If you need a refill, talk to a friend, neighbor, or family member about them picking up your medications for you. If that is not an option, most pharmacies have mail order options in place.

Prepare your pantry and refrigerator by having an extra supply of food available. Stock up on items that will last a while such as canned soups, pasta, cereal, dried fruit, frozen veggies, and trail mix. It is important that you keep your grocery trips to a minimum and only go if you absolutely have to. If possible, look into having groceries delivered to your home so you don’t have to go out.

Medical ID bracelets

Medical ID bracelets are recommended to people with severe medical conditions. If you do not already have one, now may be the time due to the coronavirus.

Older adults who are 65 years and older are at higher risk for severe illness from COVID-19, which can also cause an increased amount of stress during a crisis. Getting a medical ID for yourself or an older family member can help reduce anxiety and increase their peace of mind.

If you have any of the following health conditions, you are at a greater risk for COVID-19 and you should wear identification in the case of an emergency:

• Heart disease
• Diabetes
• Asthma
• Lung conditions
• HIV

Local resources

You may have local resources available to you and not realize it. Some of these resources could be to-go meals from senior centers, phone or video appointments (telehealth) with your physician, or grocery delivery services that can help you stay in the safety of your own home and avoid any extra exposure.

It is important to know what services are available to you and having this information ready to go can make getting the support and help that much easier.

Medical Alert Systems

A medical alert system is one of the easiest and best ways that seniors can prepare for an emergency. Along with the system, you get 24/7 monitoring and are able to connect with an emergency response operator day or night with the push of a button. While a medical alert system may not seem like something you need, if you are trying to remain independent in your own home, but stay safe, there is no better way than investing in a medical alert system. 

Since there is an increased health risk surrounding older adults due to the coronavirus, a medical alert system can provide the peace of mind that you and your loved ones need during this time that has additional stressors.

Medical alert systems can help with the following situations:

• Getting emergency help in case of a fall
• Contacting loved ones after a fall or injury
• Maintaining independence and safety
• GPS location if lost
• 24/7 monitoring for any type of emergency

If you or a loved one are at a higher risk of catching and experiencing harsher symptoms of COVID-19, purchasing a medical alert system may be the best option that can keep everyone involved happy and safe.

Hannah Verret

Hannah Verret is a Content Developer at Med-Alert Pros in Memphis, TN. Hannah has been working in content creation throughout her entire adult career. When Hannah isn't writing or organizing social media posts, she's spending her time reading and loving on her many pets.