Falls are a common and serious problem among older adults, lone workers, and people with dementia. Falls can cause injuries, such as broken bones and head trauma, sometimes leading to hospitalisation or death.
To address this issue, fall detection watches have become increasingly popular. These watches are designed to detect sudden movements that may indicate a fall and automatically call for help. However, the question is, do fall detection watches work?
In this blog, we will examine the accuracy and reliability of fall detection watches, focusing on the CPR Guardian III fall detection watch.
The Accuracy and Reliability of Fall Detection Watches
Fall detection watches use sensors to detect sudden movements, such as acceleration and deceleration, and if a fall is detected, an alarm is triggered, and help is automatically summoned. The accuracy and reliability of fall detection watches can vary widely depending on the technology used and the watch's design.
Several studies have been conducted to assess the accuracy of fall detection watches. These studies have shown that fall detection watches are generally accurate in detecting falls, with some studies reporting detection rates of up to 90%.
However, false alarms can also occur, especially when wearers engage in activities that mimic the movements of a fall, such as bending down to pick up an object. Some fall detection watches may also fail to detect falls if the wearer falls softly or is not worn properly.
To address these issues, some fall detection watches incorporate advanced algorithms and machine learning technology to reduce false alarms and improve accuracy. However, it is important to note that no fall detection watch is perfect, and wearers should not rely solely on the watch to call for help in the event of a fall.
Fall Detection Watch Technology: How CPR Guardian III Works
The CPR Guardian III is a fall detection watch designed to be accurate and reliable. The watch uses sensors to detect falls, including an accelerometer and a gyroscope. The accelerometer measures the watch's movement, while the gyroscope detects orientation changes.
When the CPR Guardian III detects a fall, it vibrates and emits a loud alarm to alert the wearer. If the wearer does not respond within 30 seconds, the watch will automatically call for help, sending the wearer's location to designated emergency contacts or the CPR Guardian monitoring centre.
The CPR Guardian III also has a unique feature called "false alarm prevention." This feature uses advanced algorithms to detect movements that mimic falls and reduces false alarms. The watch is also designed to be worn 24/7 and is water-resistant, making it suitable for use.
The CPR Guardian III is also equipped with other features that can benefit older adults, lone workers, people with dementia, and their caregivers. For example, the watch has a reminder feature that reminds wearers to take their medication on time. It also has a GPS tracking feature to help caregivers locate their loved ones if they become lost or disoriented.
The Importance of Fall Detection Watches
As people age, the risk of falls becomes a major concern, especially for older adults, lone workers, people with dementia, and caregivers. These groups are at a higher risk of falling due to various factors, including balance problems, chronic health conditions, and medication side effects. Falls can also be more difficult to detect for individuals who live alone or have impaired cognitive abilities.
Providing an Extra Layer of Safety and Security
Fall detection watches offer an effective solution to address the challenges that come with the risk of falls. By providing an extra layer of safety and security, these watches can detect falls and automatically call for help, ensuring that older adults, lone workers, people with dementia, and caregivers receive prompt medical attention during a fall.
Reducing the Risk of Serious Injuries and Hospitalisation
Prompt medical attention is crucial in the event of a fall, as serious injuries or hospitalisation can occur. Fall detection watches can significantly reduce this risk by detecting falls and calling for help, which can ensure timely medical attention. In some cases, fall detection watches may even save a life.
Alleviating Anxiety and Fear
Fall detection watches provide peace of mind to wearers and their loved ones. Knowing that help is just a button press away can alleviate anxiety and fear, allowing individuals to maintain their independence and autonomy for longer. By providing security and reassurance, fall detection watches can help older adults, lone workers, people with dementia, and caregivers live a more comfortable and fulfilling life.
Ensuring Safety without Sacrificing Freedom
Fall detection watches can help to ensure safety without sacrificing freedom or independence. These watches allow individuals to continue living while providing a safety net during a fall. By providing an extra layer of security, fall detection watches can help older adults, lone workers, people with dementia, and caregivers maintain their independence and autonomy for longer.
Conclusion
Fall detection watches can be useful for older adults, lone workers, people with dementia, and caregivers to ensure that help is summoned during a fall. However, the accuracy and reliability of fall detection watches can vary widely. Hence, choosing a watch designed to be accurate and reliable, such as the CPR Guardian III, is important.
The CPR Guardian Personal Alarm Watch with Fall Detection is an easy-to-use standalone mobile phone watch with an integrated SIM card. It's a personal alarm that contacts family. They can view the location and well-being of the wearer remotely by using the Guardian mobile APP for Android and iOS. Carers can call the fall detection watch just like a mobile phone. Please contact us if you need assistance.