Medical Alarm

Users wear these electronic transmitters on their body or clothing at all times. Once the user presses a button on the transmitter, the alarm summons an ambulance or connects with a trained emergency operator for assistance.

Who should have it: Older Americans, disabled persons and people with chronic illnesses who spend time outside the home, or anyone unable to perform emergency self-care.

Medical Alert System

With this system, a small personal transmitter worn at all times sends a radio signal to a console installed in the house, usually through the phone line. When users press a button on the transmitter, they reach a call center that summons for help.

Who should have it: Older Americans, disabled persons and people with chronic illnesses who live alone.

Medical Panic Button

These small, light devices worn by the user directly connects to an emergency operator, who assesses the situation and sends appropriate medical assistance. There is no telephone connection; the user pushes a single button to activate.

Who should have it: Older Americans, disabled individuals and people with chronic illnesses who spend time outside the home, or anyone unable to perform emergency self-care.

Personal Emergency Response System (or Medical Emergency Response System)

Personal Emergency Response System (PERS), also called Medical Emergency Response System, is an electronic device that allows a caregiver or care recipient to contact emergency help (medical, fire, police). The user activates a small battery-powered radio transmitter, carried or worn by the user, by pressing one or two buttons. A console connected to the user's telephone sends an emergency alert through the phone lines to an emergency response center. The center analyzes the emergency, contacts appropriate parties and monitors the call, usually until the crisis is resolved. Most systems can dial out of home even if the line is busy or off the hook.

Who should have it: Disabled persons, older Americans and people with chronic illnesses who live alone.

Prescription Medicine Compliance

Medication Management Systems

These high-tech medicine dispensing units organize and dispense pharmacy-filled medication as prescribed; give the patient and caregiver visual and audio reminders; alert the caregiver when medication is not taken; provide an electronic interface with the pharmacist; automatically reorder medication when needed; and create and store an electronic record of medication.Some units offer Spanish-language services and feature a built-in personal response system.

Who should have it: Older Americans, disabled individuals, people with chronic illnesses or anyone unable to perform emergency self-care, who spends time outside the home.

Prescription Reminder Services

These subscriber services use automated voice telephone recordings to remind patients to take their medication and refill prescriptions. They charge a monthly fee, based on the number of reminders needed a day.

Who should have it: Older Americans, disabled individuals, people with chronic illnesses or anyone who needs help remembering to take their prescribed medication on time.

THE IMPORTANCE OF PROPER TRAINING AND INSTRUCTION

Once caregivers create a customized homecare kit for their care recipient, both caregivers and recipients should be trained to use it properly. Read any accompanying instructions and watch videos that might have come with the equipment. Set aside time to review all the material before operating any equipment. If you have any questions, call the company's customer service department.

Receiving proper CPR and first aid instruction -- and even certification -- is a good way for caregivers to ensure they are trained to use the kits most effectively and are best prepared for an emergency.

Places that offer CPR classes include: city, county and state government agencies; universities; local chapters of the American Red Cross and American Heart Association; and women's and community centers.