Medical Alert Systems That Are Discreet
Using a medical alert system is nothing to be ashamed of. Still, many people have a hard time coping with the idea of wearing a medical alert device. Considering how bulky, and frankly, ugly, these help button-equipped bracelets and pendants traditionally are, it’s not hard to see why.
Many people are so ashamed of their devices that they hide them beneath layers of clothing. When they can’t hide them, they sometimes may make the risky choice of leaving their medical alert system at home. This is particularly concerning for those living in warmer climates, who wear light clothing that doesn’t adequately hide their MAS.
The good news is that you no longer have to settle for an unsightly medical alert system. Medical alert system providers now offer more discreet, even fashionable, options that anyone would be comfortable wearing. Keep reading to learn about these inconspicuous devices and to find out where you can get one for yourself!
The Problems with Traditional Medical Alert Systems
Until recently, wearable medical alert systems have gotten a bad rap. In popular culture, they’ve been the butt of many jokes, due largely to dated Life Alert ads. It’s no wonder, then, why so many seniors are put off by the idea of wearing one. No one wants to be seen as frail and helpless. It can be embarrassing and makes them appear weak, increasing the likelihood of being targeted in predatory scams.
However, that’s not the only reason some seniors find wearing a medical alert system embarrassing. It is also a matter of style. It’s no secret that these devices are, more often than not, unattractive. For appearance-conscious individuals, a cumbersome plastic pendant or wristband is the last thing they want to add to their ensemble.
Regardless, the fact remains: wearing a medical alert device is incredibly important. This is especially true for the 87% of seniors who would prefer to age in their own homes. These devices allow them the freedom and security that is crucial to living independently.
Devices so bulky and brash that people don’t want to wear them are, therefore, highly problematic. Choosing not to wear a device is not only a waste of resources but genuinely dangerous for the user.
So, what changes have been implemented to make MAS more attractive to users?
The New Wave of Discreet Medical Alert Devices
Medical alert systems have come a long way since they were first introduced in the 1970s. Increasingly, companies are making their products more attractive to users to encourage them to wear their medical alert devices. There are two main ways they accomplish this. That is, by making their accessories more discreet, as well as fashionable. These days, that means “high-tech.”
Medical alert system providers have found that integrating more advanced technology is highly effective. With the rising popularity of wearable technology like Fitbit and Apple Watch, wearable medical alerts are finally starting to blend in. Some medical alert system providers have even developed smart devices of their own!
The following are just a few of the discreet products on the market.
The Bay Alarm 4G Help Button
Bay Alarm Medical’s on-the-go help button is one of the most modernized and advanced medical alert devices available. Not only does it come with built-in GPS tracking, but it is also app-integrated, water-resistant, and has automatic fall detection. This medical alert system is convertible and can be worn as a pendant or on the belt. The button comes with a free carrying case with a belt clip. That way, you can tuck it behind a jacket or a shirt, while still being able to access it easily.
Medical Alert by Connect America’s Mobile Elite Package
Another company that offers discreet medical alert accessories is Medical Alert by Connect America. Medical Alert’s Mobile Elite Package comes with several devices for on-the-go coverage, including a handheld alert and a bracelet. This medical alert bracelet is different than others on the market because it is designed to look like a watch. People will hardly notice the difference. Meanwhile, the handheld alert comes with a carrying case and resembles any other handheld electronic device.
Get Safe’s GPS Help Button
Like Medical Alert by Connect America, Get Safe offers an attractive, compact handheld help button. In fact, one of Get Safe’s primary missions is to make the medical alert system sleeker. This designer device is 4G LTE-enabled, comes with built-in GPS, and rivals your iPhone in its streamlined design. It slips nicely in your pocket or purse, but also looks stylish as a pendant. Get Safe also offers one of the smallest medical alert pendants on the market to synchronize with your mobile device. Throw on a chunky necklace over your pendant and it’ll easily pass unnoticed!
The On-The-Go Voice Necklace by LifeFone
LifeFone’s wearable medical alert system isn’t the most inconspicuous to wear around your neck. Thankfully, it comes with a built-in belt clip so you can attach it to your belt or your purse. This design doesn’t require an additional case; just clip and go. People who wear black often will prefer this medical alert device for its ability to blend in smoothly.
MobileHelp’s Smart Medical Alert Watch
One of the most innovative and exciting medical alert devices in today’s market is the smartwatch by MobileHelp. This is the perfect device for anyone who doesn’t want to stand out. The smartwatch is like any other, featuring multiple functions and even apps. The Samsung Health app monitors activity and can track diet, fitness, and heart rate. It can also be used as a digital help button, a clock, and to check to weather with the built-in weather app. As wearable technology becomes the norm, more medical alerts systems like MobileHelp’s smartwatch are bound to enter the market.
Time to Get Moving!
Thanks to advancements in today’s medical alert systems, security no longer means forfeiting style. And that’s good because a wearable medical alert system really is central to your aging health. Not only will these devices blend in seamlessly, but you’ll also feel more confident than ever to move through the world independently.
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Hi Maura, thank you for taking the time to comment on this article. While these medical alert systems may appear ugly to you, they are discreet as they are all quite small and unobtrusive. They can easily fit in a pocket, be worn under a shirt without an obvious bulge, and many come with clips that you can attach to your belt or waistband if you prefer. Additionally, MobileHelp’s Smart Medical Alert watch looks like any other smartwatch, so users don’t mind having it on display.
I would like to see a device that is capable of wearing in the shower
Hi Lorraine, all of the Bay Alarm Medical Alert products are safe to use in the shower. You can read the full review about them here: https://top5-medicalalertsystems.com/reviews/bay-alarm/.
They’re ugly…I got excited when I saw this article, but disappointed to see those clunky, tacky pieces. Just because we are “seniors” we shouldn’t have to be reminded by having to wear things that remind us we’re “seniors.” I am an extremely young Glamma and enjoy wearing tasteful clothes and jewelry. Perhaps you could employ a jewelry designer to help with your design. People do not want to wear a doorbell around their necks that scream “I’m old.”
I agree, BUTT UGLY! Can’t we get some silver or gold, maybe some BLING?