Why you can shower with Life Alert on
Life Alert has explicitly designed its wearable emergency alert devices to be waterproof, ensuring users are protected in the bathroom, which is one of the most common locations for falls. The company offers different wearable options, including pendants and wristbands, which are built to withstand exposure to water without damage or loss of function. This focus on shower safety is a core component of their service, recognizing the elevated risk that bathrooms pose for seniors and others who are prone to falls.
The importance of waterproof protection
Slippery floors, hard surfaces, and limited grab points make bathrooms particularly dangerous for individuals with mobility challenges. By ensuring its alert buttons are waterproof, Life Alert removes a significant point of failure in an emergency response plan. A user never has to remember to put their device back on after a shower, eliminating a major vulnerability. The device is always on and ready to use, providing constant peace of mind for both the user and their family members.
Types of Life Alert waterproof devices
Life Alert offers different models that are suitable for use in the shower. The standard wearable pendant is fully waterproof and can be worn as a necklace or wristband. For stationary protection, they also offer a dedicated Shower HELP Button. This is a wall-mounted unit for high-risk areas like the shower or bathtub and requires no electrical outlet, offering an extra layer of security. Both types of devices offer one-touch access to the monitoring center, ensuring that help can be summoned quickly and efficiently.
Comparison of waterproof medical alert systems
While Life Alert is a prominent provider, many medical alert companies offer waterproof devices. Understanding the features and waterproofing specifications can help you choose the best fit for your needs.
| Feature | Life Alert (Wearable) | Medical Guardian | Bay Alarm Medical | Philips Lifeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Waterproof Rating | Fully Waterproof | IP67 rated on all wearables | IPX6 or IP67 depending on model | Submergible up to 30 mins |
| Wearable Options | Pendant, Wristband | Pendant, Wristband, Smartwatch | Pendant, Wristband, Smartwatch | Pendant, Wristband |
| Bathroom-Specific Device | Yes, wall-mounted Shower HELP Button | Yes, wall-mounted button | Yes, wall-mounted button | No, but wearables are waterproof |
| Battery | No-charge, long-life battery | Varies by device, some recharge | Varies by device | No-charge, long-life battery |
| Key Feature | Simple, reliable, long battery life | Excellent range on home systems | Strong customer service and usability | Consistency across all wearables |
Maximizing your safety in the bathroom
While wearing a waterproof Life Alert device is a crucial step for bathroom safety, it is part of a comprehensive strategy. Combining technology with proactive changes to your environment can significantly reduce the risk of falls.
Environmental modifications
- Install grab bars: Place grab bars near the toilet and inside and outside the shower/tub for reliable support.
- Use non-slip mats: Put non-slip mats both inside the shower and on the bathroom floor to prevent slips on wet tiles.
- Consider a shower seat: A shower seat or bench can reduce the risk of falling from fatigue or weakness.
- Improve lighting: Ensure the bathroom is well-lit to clearly see potential hazards. Motion-activated lights can be helpful for nighttime use.
How to use your Life Alert in the shower
Using your Life Alert in the shower is straightforward due to its design. The device is typically a lightweight, waterproof pendant that can be worn comfortably. It does not require any special handling in wet conditions. Simply wear the pendant around your neck or wrist as you normally would. If an emergency occurs, press the button. The system will connect you to the emergency monitoring center via the base unit, which should be placed in a dry, central location in your home, within range of the bathroom.
What to do if you have a non-waterproof device
If you have an older or non-waterproof medical alert system, do not wear it in the shower. Instead, consider these steps:
- Place a stationary, waterproof button: Many companies, including Life Alert, offer wall-mounted waterproof buttons for the bathroom. This is a simple and effective solution.
- Keep your wearable nearby: For non-waterproof devices, keep it on a hook or shelf right outside the shower, within arm's reach. However, this method is less safe than a fully waterproof, wearable device, as you cannot access it if you fall in the shower itself.
Conclusion
In summary, yes, you can shower with Life Alert on because the company’s wearable buttons are specifically engineered to be waterproof. This is a critical safety feature that protects users in the bathroom, a high-risk area for falls. The waterproof design ensures that individuals have constant, uninterrupted access to emergency assistance. By combining a waterproof medical alert device with additional bathroom safety measures, users can significantly reduce their risk of injury and maintain their independence with confidence and security. For maximum safety, it is essential to ensure your specific model is waterproof and that you wear it consistently, even in wet environments.
