Should you buy a watch type personal alarm?

Should you buy a watch type personal alarm?

Disadvantages of Personal Alert Systems in Watches

Personal alert watches may seem convenient, but they come with significant drawbacks that users and caregivers should consider. CareAlert’s research highlights the following limitations:

1. Unreliable Fall Detection

  • False Alarms: Sudden movements or minor impacts can trigger unnecessary alerts.
  • Missed Falls: Some falls go undetected, especially if the motion isn’t dramatic.

2. Poor Battery Life

  • Requires frequent charging, which can be inconvenient.
  • Risk of running out of power when needed most.

3. Difficult to Use

  • Small buttons and screens can be hard for elderly users to navigate.
  • Complex setup and app management may be confusing.

4. Small Display

  • Hard to read emergency prompts and notifications.
  • Challenging to adjust settings, especially for those with vision impairments.

5. Accidental Activations

  • Emergency calls may be triggered unintentionally.
  • Frequent false alarms can cause frustration.

6. Uncomfortable for Long Wear

  • May cause discomfort, especially for users with arthritis or swollen wrists.
  • Irritation from prolonged wear, particularly in hot weather.

7. High Costs

  • Expensive upfront fees.

8. Limited Durability

  • Not always waterproof, making them unsuitable for swimming or bathing.
  • Frequent charging can degrade battery life over time.

9. Lack of Customization

  • Limited ability to adjust fall detection sensitivity.
  • Emergency response settings may not be easily tailored to individual needs.

10. Visibility & Theft Risk

  • Smartwatch designs may attract theft.
  • Risk of tampering, which could impact functionality.

11. Always Needs to Be Worn

  • Unlike pendants that can be placed nearby, watches must be worn to function.
  • Ineffective for those who don’t wear a watch all the time, including during sleep.

 

Conclusion

While watch-based alert systems offer an all-in-one approach, their reliability and ease of use often fall short. Pendant-based alternatives provide greater comfort, durability, and peace of mind, making them a more practical choice for many users.