Throughout our lives, it is unavoidable for us to have accidents and medical emergencies. These can range from simple falling a few flights from the stairs, or having an allergy attack to something much worse such as getting into a traffic accident or getting a heart attack. No matter what the cause is, we would always want to get help immediately.

According to medical studies, the survival rate of injured people decreases exponentially for every second that passes from time of injury to first aid and medical treatment. This just means that immediate medical action is needed for you to have better chances of surviving an accident or medical emergency. This is all good and well if this episode happens outside in a crowded street or at work where your office mates can immediately go to the rescue and call for help. However, what will happen to you if this happens while you are driving alone at night or you are at home with nobody to notice. Sometimes, even non-fatal accidents and emergencies become lethal simply because nobody was there to help you or call for help.

Personal Emergency Response System

With this in mind, it would be helpful if you have a Personal Emergency Response System or more commonly known as a Medical Alert or Medical Alarm. This is a tool that will summon immediate emergency medical personnel upon activation. In most cases, this is a simple gadget that is always kept with you and with one press of a button, you can immediately contact 911 or family members to let them know that something is wrong. Depending on the unit, some may only store one number while others may even go up to 5. The device will call the numbers you have stored in order of priority and will not stop until one picks up. When someone answers, it will automatically go to loud speaker mode enabling you to call for help even if you have collapsed on the ground.

The Evolution of the System

Though the systems used nowadays are high-tech, the origin of the PERS itself is quite old. It was developed in Germany back in the 1970’s by Wilhelm Hormann with the aim of developing new help functions for both walking and non-walking patients, the elderly, or those alone at home. The technical application of the system was a success with the help of AEG-Telefunken Backnang GmbH and was presented internationally in the early 1980’s. In 1982, Hormann’s system was distinguished with the Frankfurt Innovation Prize of the German Economy and was deemed as a success.

How It Can Help You

According to studies, those that have the Medical Alert System live six years longer in their houses as compared to those who don’t. The PERS is good not only for the elderly who are more prone to accidents and health emergencies but for people who are living alone or are alone most of the time. With this in hand, medical help will arrive almost instantaneously; thus exponentially increasing your chances for survival.