My mom just moved in with our family, and she was talking to us on her smart watch that has a fall detection feature that can automatically call us if she falls. I was skeptical at first (mainly because I wear a traditional watch), but as it turns out, it’s one of the best security features available on smartwatches today.
For older adults, falls remain one of the leading causes of injury-related hospital visits. Unfortunately, many adults are unable to call for help when they fall. As a result, they may stay where they arrived for a long time, causing more health problems and increasing the risk of the condition. Fortunately, one feature, known as fall detection, can automatically detect a hard fall and contact emergency services (or say emergency contacts) if the wearer is unresponsive. Here’s what you need to know about this feature and how it can help you.
How Fall Acquisition Actually Works
A smartwatch safety feature known as fall detection relies on advanced sensors built into modern wearable devices. Accelerometers and gyroscopes constantly monitor movement patterns and can detect when a sudden impact resembles a serious fall.
If the watch receives a hard fall, it usually vibrates, sounds an alarm, and displays a message asking if the wearer is okay. If the person responds, the warning can be dismissed immediately. If there is no response and little or no movement is detected afterwards, the watch can automatically contact emergency services and share location information.
One of the biggest advantages of this smartwatch security feature is that it doesn’t always require the wearer to take action. If the watch determines that there has been a serious fall and the user remains unresponsive, it can start an emergency countdown. This makes it much easier for an elder who may not be able to respond at the moment. And more importantly, it gets help on the way quickly.
It’s not perfect
Although fall detection technology has advanced greatly, it is important to understand its limitations. Manufacturers admit that no smartwatch safety feature can detect every fall with perfect accuracy. In some cases, vigorous physical activity, exercise, or sudden movement may cause a false alarm.
Conversely, some types of falls may not generate enough force to activate the detection system. Adults should view fall detection as an additional safety tool rather than a complete substitute for common sense safety measures and regular check-ins with family members.
That said, there are a few other features that can help you keep your smartwatch safe. Emergency SOS features that allow users to call for help with the push of a button. Some models offer location sharing, crash detection, heart rate monitoring, irregular rhythm alerts, and medication reminders. These skills can be especially important for seniors who have chronic health conditions or live alone.
Pre-requisite Feature Setup
With all that in mind, you should set up the feature to make it accessible to you. Take the time to review the settings and add emergency contacts. Setting things up can make a big difference during an emergency.
Family members may want to help elderly relatives make sure fall detection is enabled and working properly. It is also wise to ensure that emergency contact information is always available after major life changes. Preparation in advance ensures that the smartwatch’s security feature can work as intended when every second counts.
Technologies That Support Independence
Many adults worry that safety devices can make them feel insecure. In fact, technology like fall detection often does the opposite by allowing people to maintain their habits with greater confidence. Whether they’re gardening, shopping, walking the dog, or walking, wearers know that help may be available even if they can’t reach a phone.
Have you or a loved one ever used a smartwatch with fall detection? Do you think this technology provides real peace of mind for seniors? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
Image caption: Fall detection can automatically alert emergency services if the wearer of the smartwatch falls hard and is unable to respond. For seniors living alone, it may provide an extra layer of protection and peace of mind.
What to Read Next
Beyond the Bathroom: Why Up to 40% of Falls Are Linked to Bed-to-Chair Transfers
5 Balance Exercises Every Senior Should Do Today to Help Reduce the Risk of Falling This Year
Beware of Benadryl and Ambien: Older Antihistamines and Sleep Drugs Can Cause Confusion, Falls and Hospital Visits.
