Understanding Medical Alert Systems

Medical alert systems are designed to signal the presence of a hazard requiring urgent attention and to summon emergency medical personnel. Other terms for a medical alert system include personal emergency response system, medical emergency response system, and fall monitor.

These systems are crucial for older adults and people with medical conditions who might require immediate medical attention. They provide a quick and easy way to call for help in the event of an emergency, such as a fall, heart attack, or home invasion. When the user presses the help button, the console connected to the telephone line will dial a number that is pre-selected by the user and connect to a 24-hour call center.

Overview of ADT Basic Medical Alert System

The ADT Basic Medical Alert System is a popular choice among the many medical alert systems available today. It offers a variety of features designed to provide peace of mind for users and their loved ones.

Key features of the ADT Basic Medical Alert System include:

• Two-way voice communication: This allows the user to speak directly with a monitoring center operator in the event of an emergency.
• Water-resistant pendant and wristband: These wearable devices are designed to be used in the shower or bath, where falls are common.
• 24/7 monitoring: ADT’s monitoring centers operate around the clock, ensuring that help is always available when needed.

The benefits of using ADT medical alert systems are numerous. For one, the system provides an added layer of protection for those living alone or with medical conditions. It also allows older adults to maintain their independence while ensuring that help is just a button press away.

When compared to other medical alert systems, ADT stands out for its comprehensive coverage, reliable equipment, and excellent customer service.

Importance of Regular Testing

Testing your ADT medical alert system is crucial to ensure that it is working properly and will perform as expected in an emergency. Regular testing can help identify any issues or malfunctions early so that they can be addressed promptly.

ADT recommends testing the system once a week. This involves pressing the button on the pendant or wristband and then speaking with the monitoring center operator to confirm that the signal was received. This process is known as a “test call”.

Remember, the goal of a medical alert system is to provide peace of mind and save lives in an emergency. Regular testing is a small but important step in achieving that goal.

How to Test Your ADT Basic Medical Alert System

Preparing for the Test

Before you begin the test, it’s important to ensure that your ADT medical alert system is working properly. This includes checking that the system is powered on and that all components are connected correctly. If you have a wearable device, such as a neck pendant or wristband, make sure it’s within range of the base unit.

It’s also a good idea to notify ADT’s monitoring center that you’re about to conduct a test. This can prevent any confusion or unnecessary emergency responses. You can do this by calling the monitoring center at (800) 568-1216 option 1.

Step-by-Step Guide to Testing the ADT Basic Medical Alert System

Here are the detailed instructions on how to conduct the test for different ADT medical alert systems:

Medical Alert Basic

1. The test icon on your base system will start flashing yellow to remind you to conduct your monthly test.
2. Press and hold the help button on the neck pendant or wristband.
3. The base station will announce “Connecting to ADT Companion Service.”
4. Wait for the operator to come on the line and let them know you are testing your system.

Medical Alert Plus

1. The 4th signal strength indicator bar on the base station will flash every 30 days to remind you to test your system.
2. Touch and hold the test button on the Cellular base station until the Cellular base station says, “user auto-test.” This will take about 6 seconds.
3. An announcement over the base station will instruct the user to press the Emergency Button or Pendant.
4. Press the neck pendant or wristband.
5. The base station will announce “test call sent to Emergency Response Center.”
6. If the test was successful, you will hear “thank you for testing your device” from the base station speaker. If the test was not successful, the base station will announce “user auto-test failed.”

On-The-Go

1. Press and hold the test button on the side of the device. This button is labeled with the letter T. When the test mode is activated the LED ring turns yellow. The device will announce “User auto test. Please press your emergency button or pendant.”
2. Press and hold the help button on your Pendant or Wristband for 2 seconds. The On-The-Go device will announce, “Test call sent to emergency response center.”
3. If the test was successful, the On-The-Go device will announce, “Thank you for testing your device.” If the test was unsuccessful, the On-The-Go device will announce, “User auto-test failed, please contact customer support.”

During the test, you can expect the system to connect to the monitoring center and for an operator to communicate with you. If the test is successful, you’ll hear a confirmation message.

Post-Test Procedures

After the test, it’s important to check the status of your system. If the test was successful, no further action is needed. However, if the test was unsuccessful, the system will announce “user auto-test failed.” In this case, you should contact ADT customer support at (800) 568-1216 for further assistance.

Remember, regular testing is an important part of maintaining your ADT medical alert system. It ensures that the system is working properly and can provide the necessary assistance in an emergency.

Advanced Features of ADT Basic Medical Alert System

Fall Detection

One of the standout features of the ADT Basic Medical Alert System is the fall detection feature. This feature uses advanced technology to detect if the user has taken a fall. If a fall is detected, the system can automatically send an alert to the ADT monitoring center, even if the user is unable to press the help button.

To add fall detection to your system, you’ll need to upgrade to the Medical Alert Plus or On-The-Go systems, which offer this feature as an optional add-on. It’s important to note that the fall detection pendant does not detect 100% of falls, but it can provide an extra layer of protection for users who are at risk of falling.

GPS Technology

GPS technology plays a crucial role in medical alert systems, especially for those designed for use both at home and on the go. GPS technology allows the monitoring center to pinpoint the user’s location in the event of an emergency, which can be particularly useful if the user is unable to communicate their location themselves.

ADT incorporates GPS technology into their On-The-Go system. This mobile system provides freedom and peace of mind for users, whether they’re at home or out and about. The system includes a mobile base unit, a pendant, and optional fall detection, all of which utilize GPS technology to ensure the user can get help wherever they are.

Two-Way Voice Communication

Two-way voice communication is a key feature of the ADT Basic Medical Alert System. This feature allows the user to communicate directly with the monitoring center in the event of an emergency.

The benefits of this feature are numerous. For the user, it provides reassurance that help is on the way and allows them to relay important information about their situation. For emergency responders, it provides valuable information that can help them respond more effectively.

Water Resistant Devices

When it comes to medical alert devices, water resistance is an important feature. Many falls occur in the bathroom, so it’s crucial that users can wear their devices in the shower or bath without damaging them.

ADT offers water-resistant pendants and wristbands as part of their medical alert systems. These devices are designed to be worn at all times, so users can always call for help if they need it. Additionally, ADT offers a waterproof wall-mount button that can be easily mounted to the wall or placed on a table or nightstand for easy access in an emergency.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Dealing with False Alarms

False alarms can be a common issue with any security system, including the ADT Basic Medical Alert System. They can be caused by a variety of factors, such as accidental activation of the emergency button, movement of pets triggering motion detectors, or even changes in temperature causing doors or windows to contract or expand.

To prevent false alarms, it’s important to use the system regularly and understand its operation. Make sure everyone in your household knows how to use the system to avoid accidental activations. If you have pets, consider arming the system in “Stay” mode to prevent motion detectors from picking up their activity.

If a false alarm does occur, the first step is to disarm the system by entering your 4-digit code. Then, identify the cause of the false alarm and take steps to prevent it from happening again in the future.

Low Battery and Battery Life

Monitoring the battery level of your ADT system and its components is crucial for its proper operation. If the system or a device’s battery is low, it may not function correctly, potentially compromising your safety.

Your system and devices will typically indicate a low battery status. For example, most systems will display notifications like “LOW BATT” or “BAT”. If you see these notifications, it’s time to replace the battery.

To replace the battery, refer to your system’s user manual for specific instructions. If you’re unsure which battery your system or device requires, you can find this information on ADT’s Battery Identification page.

Range Test and Cellular Connection

Understanding the range of your ADT system is important for its effective operation. The range refers to the distance over which the system’s devices can communicate with the base unit. If a device is out of range, it may not function correctly.

A stable cellular connection is also crucial, especially for mobile systems like the On-The-Go system. This connection allows the system to communicate with the monitoring center in the event of an emergency. If the cellular connection is unstable, it could prevent the system from sending an alert when needed.

Warranty and Additional Fees

ADT offers a warranty on their medical alert systems, which covers defects in materials and workmanship. For specific details about the warranty, including its duration and what it covers, refer to the terms and conditions provided with your system.

In addition to the cost of the system and monthly monitoring fees, there may be additional fees for certain services or features. For example, there may be fees for professional installation, or for optional features like fall detection. It’s important to understand these potential additional costs when choosing and using your ADT system.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the ADT Basic Medical Alert System:

For further inquiries, you can contact ADT through their customer service hotline at (800) 568-1216 or visit their website at www.adt.com.

Conclusion

Regular testing of your ADT Basic Medical Alert System is crucial to ensure that it’s working properly and can provide the necessary assistance in an emergency. This system, which can be considered a mobile device, offers a variety of features designed to provide peace of mind for users and their loved ones.

The Medical Alert Plus System is an upgrade that offers additional features like automatic fall detection and GPS technology. Whether you’re using the at home systems or the cellular at home system, you can rest assured that emergency contacts and emergency personnel can be alerted quickly in case of an emergency.

The mobile unit is easy to carry around, and the at home system is perfect for those who spend most of their time at home. The test procedure is simple and straightforward, and the warranty ADT offers provides additional peace of mind.

The fall detection button is a lifesaver in case of falls, and the two-way speaker allows for clear communication during emergencies. While there may be an additional fee for certain features, the monthly fees are reasonable considering the level of safety and security the system provides.

The system also offers temperature monitoring, which is especially useful for home temperature monitoring. The cradle charger ensures your device is always powered, and the system’s ability to provide a GPS location can be crucial during emergencies.

Whether you’re using a traditional landline or a cellular connection, the system’s response time is impressively quick. And the best part? There are no long term contracts to worry about.

The ADT Basic Medical Alert System is a reliable and comprehensive solution for anyone who needs a medical alert system. Whether you’re an older adult living alone, a person with a medical condition, or simply someone who values safety and peace of mind, this system can provide the support you need.

Don’t wait until an emergency happens. Make sure your system is tested regularly and is always ready to provide help when you need it. If you don’t have an ADT system yet, consider purchasing one today. If you already have a system, consider upgrading to enjoy additional features like fall detection and GPS technology.

Remember, your safety and peace of mind are worth investing in. Choose ADT, a trusted name in home security and medical alert systems.