A medical alert bracelet is a wearable device used to alert medical professionals of your medical conditions in a situation when you are unable to communicate. It can be worn as a bracelet or a necklace, and you can usually include details such as health conditions, allergies, emergency contacts, and medication information.
Medical jewellery has a small medical symbol that can be helpful for health professionals during critical situations in case you require specialised medical attention.
Why you may need a medical bracelet
A medical alert bracelet can be beneficial in different circumstances:
Health conditions
Putting appropriate information on a medical bracelet can be helpful if you have a medical condition like epilepsy, have suffered from a stroke, or had an organ transplant. In the case of an emergency, the medical professional attending to you can get all the relevant information, and they may be able to help you more appropriately. For example, If someone is experiencing an epileptic attack, a medical alert bracelet could alert people around them to keep the wearer safe and clear the area of potential dangers.
Someone with an organ transplant could be on immunosuppressants, making them more sensitive to infections. A medical alert bracelet can inform health professionals of their situation, guiding them to avoid treatments that might affect their health.
Information about medicines and allergies
Some medicines can cause severe allergic reactions to other drugs, so wearing medical jewellery that lists the medications you take regularly could be useful.
For example, the mixing of antidepressants and opioids. Combining these drugs can lead to increased sedation and respiratory depression, posing a risk, especially for older adults with existing conditions or are particularly frail. It's important that medical professionals are aware of all the relevant information so they can provide you with appropriate medication that won't have an adverse effect.
Difficulty in communicating
Many health conditions, such as stroke or Alzheimer's disease, might result in feelings of confusion or unconsciousness. In these situations, you might find it difficult to communicate your health conditions, and your medical ID could be helpful for the medical professional who attend to you.
History of falls
Conditions like osteoporosis make bones more fragile, increasing frailty and risk of falls for older adults. Health conditions like arthritis can impair mobility, affecting balance and muscle strength. Also, certain medications, such as blood pressure medications commonly prescribed to older adults, can cause symptoms such as drowsiness. If you struggle with any of these concerns, you can put all the information on a medical bracelet. It could help healthcare providers to prepare immediately for the possibility of fractures or severe injuries.
Reassurance for family
Knowing their loved one has a medical alert bracelet can provide peace of mind to family members and carers. In the event of a medical emergency or a fall, they can feel assured that their loved one's essential health information is accessible to those who are around.
For example, if you have dementia and you are out and about, going through a stressful situation, and unable to communicate properly or find your way home, information on your medical bracelet can be quite helpful.
How to get a medical alert bracelet
Consult your GP
Depending on your medical history, current health conditions, and medicines you are on, your GP might advise you if a medical alert bracelet is the right option for you. The healthcare professional can also help you understand the particular information that should be added to your medical jewellery. It is also important to consider how regularly the information on your bracelet should be updated.
Choose an appropriate style or material
While choosing a medical alert bracelet, it's essential to think about your lifestyle and the daily activities you get involved in. If you're active, a durable material like silicone or stainless steel might be better, whereas you can choose a more elegant design for formal occasions. Medical bracelets are typically available in variety of materials such as leather, metal, and silicone. Each of these materials can offer different benefits like style, durability, and lightweight. Make sure to choose a bracelet that is comfortable to wear and easily visible to others.
Order from a renowned supplier
Before purchasing your medical ID, make sure to research and connect with different vendors specialising in medical alert bracelets. Choosing a vendor with a good reputation for quality and service could be beneficial in the long run. You can ask for recommendations from your GP and check customer reviews online for the products you like. Many reputable vendors offer custom engraving services, allowing you to include specific information about your medications, medical conditions, allergies, and emergency contacts. Make sure to choose an option that works best according to your needs.
Provide appropriate information
Always remember to double-check all your information before finalising your medical alert bracelet. Make sure everything is accurate, updated, and easy to understand for a medical professional during an emergency. It is worth to setup reminders to review and update your details regularly. Following these steps could help in enhancing your safety and security during a critical situation.
Charities and support groups
Many support groups and charities in the UK assist people in need of medical bracelets. Some of these charities help with specific medical conditions, such as Diabetes UK, which supports people with diabetes and can offer help with getting a medical alert bracelet.
Medical alert bracelet costs
The costs of medical alert bracelets can vary depending on various factors, such as style, material, provider, and customisation options. A simple bracelet with basic engraving of essential medical information could cost between £10 and £30. Bracelets made of durable or stylish materials or with customisation options could cost between £30 and £80. Premium medical bracelets could cost over £80 and even hundreds of pounds. The premium bracelets might include additional features, such as QR codes or links to medical profiles on the web.
Peace of mind by combining a personal alarm with a medical ID
Medical alert bracelets can be beneficial in providing important health information, but personal alarms provide extra reassurance as you move around your home or when out-and-about. These small, wearable pendant alarms allow you to call for emergency assistance any time of the day or night, should you fall, feel unwell or feel unsafe inside or outside of your home.
Combining a medical alert bracelet with a fall alarm can enhance your safety by providing health information, and at the press of a button, a two-way communication feature allows you to connect with a highly trained Emergency Resolution Team, who will be able to alert nominated friends or family to provide assistance, or if necessary, contact the emergency services.
