Bed alarm systems are a crucial component of elderly care, especially as this demographic grows. These systems contribute to fall prevention, and the overall health and safety of elderly patients and loved ones. Being aware of the latest fall prevention devices, like wireless systems and remote sensor pads on the bed and floor, ensures you are equipped to provide the best care, and take more immediate action to prevent falls, injuries, and health complications. In this guide, you will learn the importance of bed alarms, how they work, and how to choose the best bed alarm system for the elderly.
Types of Bed Alarms
In finding the best bed alarm system, it is important to note that there are various types, with each designed to meet specific needs:
1. Early Alert Bed Alarm
- Details: placed on the mattress, under a fitted sheet, alerts caregivers as soon as the individual begins to shift in bed, which allows for quick intervention before the patient gets up.
- Ideal For: Elderly individuals who are prone to wandering or early risers who need assistance before getting out of bed.
- Main Benefits: Provides caregivers with a head start in preventing falls by detecting early signs of movement.
- Get yours here.
2. Under Mattress Bed Alarm with Early Alert
- Description: placed under the mattress, offering discreet monitoring without disturbing the patient or loved one. Early-Alert activates when the person shifts or moves in bed.
- Ideal For: Individuals who find over-mattress alarms uncomfortable or intrusive.
- Main Benefits: Effective and discreet monitoring without any physical contact with the person, offering a less intrusive option. The alarm sensor pad stays put so there is no need for daily repositioning.
- Get yours here.
3. Basic Bed Alarm
- Description: The most common type of bed alarm system designed to activate when heavier movement is detected.
- Ideal For: Elderly individuals who need a basic and more affordable solution for fall prevention.
- Main Benefits: Straightforward design, easy to use, more affordable
- Get yours here.
4. Large Bed Alarm
- Description: Like a standard bed alarm, but with a larger sensor pad that covers a broader area of the bed.
- Ideal For: Larger beds or individuals who move more actively during sleep or when waking up.
- Main Benefits: Increased coverage ensures better monitoring, reducing the chances of undetected movement.
- Get yours here.
How Bed Alarms Work
Through pressure sensors and motion detectors, and mats or pads that are often placed under or on the mattress or floor. Some are wired or use string alarms or other wearable technology attached to the patient, while others use wireless sensors to detect changes in movement.
Wireless vs. Wired Systems
- Wireless Systems: These are easier to install and provide more flexibility, as there are no wires to worry about.
- Wired Systems: These may require more setup, but they can offer a more reliable connection and are ideal for use in environments with minimal activity as the wires can be a tripping hazard.
Choosing the Best Bed Alarm System
When choosing the best bed alarm system, consider these main factors in making your decision:
- Assessing Needs: Consider the health condition and level of mobility of the elderly in care. For example, best for those prone to frequent falls or wandering.
- Budget Considerations: Bed alarm systems can vary in price, so it’s essential to compare features and find the best value for your budget. Bed alarm systems typically range from $50-150 USD.
- User Preferences: User comfort and adoption are crucial. Make sure the individual is comfortable with the alarm system and that it does not disturb their sleep with unpleasant noise levels.
- Trial Periods and Warranties: Many brands offer trial periods or product warranties. This allows caregivers to test the bed alarm system without full buyer commitment.
Lunderg’s Leading-Edge Bed Alarms
*Rated best overall on safewise.com
All Lunderg Alarm Sensor Pads feature a slim design which is less obtrusive, and fits easily in various settings and environments. The Lunderg Portable Pager can be paired with up to 3 sensor pads and allows caregivers to monitor while in another part of the house or care facility.
- Early-Alert Bed Alarm – Features high sensitivity, early movement detection. Basic
- Bed Alarm – Features reliable, simple design.
- Large Bed Alarm – Features increased coverage area, suitable for patients that move a lot.
- Under Mattress Bed Alarm – Features discreet, does not disturb the user, and no need for daily repositioning of the sensor pad.
Conclusion
Bed alarms are essential tools for fall prevention, offering caregivers peace of mind around the clock, and ensuring the safety of elderly patients and loved ones. Choosing the best bed alarm system based on your specific needs, and product comfort and features, can significantly reduce the risk of injury due to falls and improve overall quality of care and quality of life of the elderly. Whether you choose an Early-Alert, Under-Mattress, Basic, or Large alarm, remember that each type has distinct uses, benefits, and features.
Take the time, and use this buyer’s guide, to assess your needs, and explore your options. See Lunderg’s range of leading-edge bed alarm systems and fall prevention devices here.
