1. They’ve had a fall or near miss

Around one third of adults aged 65 and older, and nearly half of those aged 80 and over, fall at least once a year.

Studies also show that a fall later in life increases the likelihood of future falls. Even fear alone can play a part. Research shows that older adults with higher concerns about falling are more likely to experience a fall.

That’s why peace of mind matters as much as physical protection. Feeling safe and reassured can help someone stay steady on their feet.

Falls later in life can have serious consequences:

• Fractures and broken bones, sometimes leading to surgery such as hip or knee replacements
• Reduced mobility over the long term
• Longer hospital stays, which can lead to muscle weakness
• Loss of confidence and independence

To reduce these risks and get help quickly, many families choose a personal alarm. It stays with your parent at all times.

2. Health conditions or medical risks

If your parent has health conditions that raise the risk of complications, extra support can be helpful.

With age, the risk of serious medical events like heart attacks, strokes or seizures increases. These events often need immediate medical attention, and the confusion, pain or shock can leave someone disoriented.

That’s why a personal alarm, with one button press (and optional fall detection, where included), can provide a fast connection to a 24/7 response team who can assess the situation and take action.

3. Struggling with mobility

If day to day tasks like bathing, getting dressed, or preparing meals are harder than they used to be, it can be time to consider extra safety support.

Slippery bathroom floors, loose rugs, stairs, and reaching for items can be risky when balance, strength and mobility are reduced.

A personal alarm means that if your parent gets stuck or falls while carrying out daily activities, help is one button press away.

4. Living alone

Older adults who live alone are at risk of a long lie, which means being left on the floor for an extended time, often more than an hour.

This can lead to:

• Pressure sores
• Dehydration
• Hypothermia
• Muscle damage that can affect the kidneys

Personal alarms can help people get support quickly and can also alert trusted contacts from a pre-set emergency contact list.

5. Memory issues or dementia

Memory problems can increase the risk of falls, wandering, and accidents at home.

Even without a dementia diagnosis, mild cognitive impairment can affect memory, attention and decision-making. Medication side effects and infections can also cause confusion or delirium.

For families, a personal alarm can provide added reassurance, especially if your parent becomes disoriented or needs help quickly.

6. Fear of going outside

Fresh air and light movement can support strength, balance and mood. But fear of falling or getting hurt can make many older adults avoid going out.

Some personal alarms offer GPS features, which can add reassurance outside the home, depending on the device.

7. Worsening eyesight

It’s common for eyesight to decline with age. Small print becomes harder to read and lighting changes can be difficult to adjust to.

If your parent is struggling with their vision, they may be at higher risk of trips and falls at home. Improving lighting and removing hazards helps, but a personal alarm can add extra reassurance.

HelpAlert support

HelpAlert personal alarms give your parent a simple way to call for help, day or night, with one button press. This can reduce worry for the whole family.

Try our free 14-day trial. No contracts, no pressure, just a small postage fee.