Safety talks can be challenging, especially if your elderly loved one is not open to the idea of a medical alert system. You’re torn between keeping them safe and respecting their independence. This resistance is more prevalent than you might expect, and there is a sympathetic way to approach this sensitive topic.
Why Older Adults Resist Medical Alert Systems
This is the period when decisions about what solution would be acceptable to everyone are made. Some seniors perceive medical alert accessories as a sign of weakness or frailty. They may believe that wearing one signals that they are no longer capable of taking care of themselves.
Physical discomfort is a concern as well. Some of the devices are cumbersome or uncomfortable to wear, particularly for those who are not accustomed to wearing technology or jewellery. Inadvertent triggering of false alarms also raises concern regarding appropriate use of the device.
Pride and dignity are powerful drivers. Your loved one may believe that wearing a medical alert device is somehow an admission that they need help, and that is difficult for them to emotionally handle.
Reframe the Peace of Mind Dialogue
Rather than focusing on what it can’t do, shift the discussion to how the device will assist the entire family. Get them to realise that when they do have a medical alert device, you just don’t worry as much each day. Frame this as something they are doing for their grandchildren and children, not for themselves.
Provide some concrete scenarios where the device would be comforting. Describe how it would comfort you when they are home alone or allow them to continue with favourite hobbies without worrying anxious relatives.
Engage Them in the Recruitment Process
Empower your loved one by allowing them to be in charge of the decision by being included in researching and choosing the device. Offer them a range of styles, from the traditional home use of care pendants to more current smartwatch-style devices (less medical-looking). The majority of the devices today resemble ordinary jewellery or fitness trackers, which could be less stigmatising.
Let them try out a few models and inquire what they would like. Do they require anything waterproof to be worn in the shower? Would they rather have the wristband rather than a necklace? This involvement makes them feel like they are in control, rather than having an answer imposed on them.
Simplify the Technology
Take some time to tell them how the device works without overwhelming them with too much technical detail. Just the basics: how to turn it on, what will happen when they activate the button, and what the monitoring company will do. Show them step-by-step so that they feel at ease with the procedure.
Meet their false alarm concern by explaining how the monitoring service handles false alarms. If they can simply let the operator know that it was a mistake, this can help relieve concern about using the device.
Suggest a Trial Period
Tell them to give the machine a try for a month or two. This removes the fear that they will have it forever but allows them to see the benefits firsthand. Some machines come with trial offers or money-back guarantees that allow you to give this a shot.
During the trial, call in every now and then and talk through issues, and the benefits of having the device. They may discover it’s less intrusive than they imagined.
Finding the Proper Balance
Allowing your loved one autonomy while simultaneously keeping them safe takes patience and creativity. Your objective is not to ‘win’ the argument, but to find a mutually acceptable solution that will maintain their dignity and give them the protection that they require. It may take baby steps or compromises and can be continued to complete acceptance down the road.