In-Car Medical Alert Systems to the Rescue

There is an old Goofy cartoon from the 50s called Motor Mania where the titular Disney character finds himself in all sorts of shenanigans after getting behind the wheel. The lesson of the short is that people can become drastically different personalities while driving; they become brash, impulsive, and careless to the point of threatening their own safety. Even though the cartoon is a satire, there is some truth to it – especially when observing the driving habits of seniors. Many aging adults feel stressed or downright terrified when trying to get through dense traffic, ultimately leading to them make the wrong decision in a critical situation. They are prone to panic or mental blocks if a crash occurs, too, again dampening their ability to deal with the situation or call for help. In scenarios like this an on-board medical alert system is the most convenient option to have.

Why would I need an extra medical alert system for my car?

Initially the idea of adding another gizmo to an elderly driver’s car might seem excessive, especially if they already own an on-the-go medical alert button. However, sitting in a car makes it very difficult to handle the device: mobile buttons fit comfortably into your pocket or bag, but digging it out from a sitting position is very uncomfortable and exceptionally dangerous if the person driving is trying to do it. This hardship is multiplied when the aging driver suffers a crash.

Medical alert systems designed for cars serve a similar purpose to fall detection pendants in that they will automatically alert the operators when an accident happens. The sensors within the unit will detect either damage to the car or a sudden stop, initiating an immediate help signal. It’s also important to highlight that having a safety device in plain sight puts the senior’s mind at ease, especially useful since absentminded drivers might forget that they have the button on them.

Just like a personal emergency response unit, the in-car alert system maintains a connection with operators at the splitsecnd headquarters, who will provide help in every possible situation. Dispatching an ambulance after a crash and providing medical assistance is their top priority but the agents are eager to help in other situations too, such as granting guidance for a lost driver or sending roadside assistance.

The future of diversified medical alert systems

Bay Alarm Medical’s partnership is a welcome innovation in the medical alert world since the solution puts the whole family’s mind at ease. The built-in GPS inside the device allows relatives to pinpoint the elderly driver’s location on a map by using an online app. On top of that, splitsecnd has integrated an online profile system into the device that includes information about the senior – similar to a vial of life – and their car so it can be shared with the mechanics or emergency personnel.

Even though we are happy to see new medical alert products popping up, there is no doubt that the technology still needs time to grow. For example, Bay Alarm Medical sells the device on its website but it’s actually splitsecnd who handles the incoming calls. It would be far more beneficial for seniors if the monitoring activity wasn’t split between two companies and users wouldn’t be forced to manage separate systems.