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Does someone you know need an elderly alert system?

It can be hard to tell whether a loved one may benefit from an elderly alert system, but when he or she may need a little extra safety around the house, then it's important that families don't hesitate when making the decision.

Here are some signs that a senior could need the device so that they can immediately get in touch with emergency services.

1. Self-neglect. If adult children visit a parent's house and notice that the home is uncharacteristically messy, they should inspect the environment a little closer. A refrigerator with spoiled food or no food at all, unpaid bills or an overgrown lawn can all hint that a loved one needs additional help.

2. Parent refuses to move. Many older adults are adamant about staying in their own home and aging in place. While this could spark a family argument, it's best to work around these preferences by offering a compromise. By installing an elderly alert system at a senior's house, families can help guarantee the safety and independence of an older adult.

3. Increased frequency of falls. Falls can be indicative of overall health, because they are intricately linked to a person's sense of balance, as well as their ability to get around the house. Some research has even shown that they can indicate whether a senior is at risk for dementia. So if an older adult is starting to fall more frequently, it's a good idea to implement an elderly alert system in the house, especially because there's a chance that a loved one could suffer a slip and be unable to reach a phone.

4. Long-distance caregiving. Millions of Americans across the country are caring for a loved one, but that doesn't necessarily mean that the care recipient is close by. In a lot of cases, family caregivers find themselves driving hours just to check on a senior's welfare. This can cause a lot of financial problems, but also take a toll on health, because of the anxiety of this responsibility. Knowing that an older adult has a way to contact emergency responders if necessary can ease the burden from a caregiver's mind.

5. Caregiver burnout. Primary caregivers who feel like they're at the end of their rope - or that they have no time to slow down – may want to consider investing in an elderly alert system. With this device, they can help make sure that a senior is able to immediately get in touch with emergency services, taking some of the burden from a caregiver's shoulders and allowing them to work, relax or spend time with the rest of the family.