An Australian study concluded that while older adults and families found emergency buttons to be reassuring, they made no difference, in practice, to the number of ‘long lies’ or hospitalizations. The reasons are complex but, in short, some older adults are not wearing the device when it’s needed, others don’t press the button. While other studies are more positive, it’s clear that buttons are no panacea for the challenges of living independently as we age.
Some buttons detect falls, extended immobility, or button removal, which can greatly enhance their effectiveness. A good monitoring company will also encourage regular test runs, so scheduling these weekly can ensure the system remains reliable.
Ultimately, preventing incidents is always the best approach—whether through house modifications to reduce fall risks, tailored exercise programs, or remote monitoring to identify sudden health changes. While the challenges are real, embracing these tools and strategies can lead to greater independence and a safer, more confident life at home.
