Emergency Necklaces vs Alert Bracelets: Which Is More Comfortable and Effective?

Essentially, a medical alert bracelet and a medical alert necklace are the same thing. The main difference between the two lies in how they are worn – one being worn around the neck and the other around the wrist.

Both devices are effective in the case of a fall or an emergency, and both will alert the wearer’s contacts or first responders if they are triggered to do so. So how do you decide which is the right one for you?

The decision comes down to individual needs and preferences, and there are a few things to consider to help you make the right decision. The user must feel comfortable in what they are wearing, or the chances are they won’t wear them.

There is no ‘better’ option, the best choice is the one that is most likely to be worn all the time and that the wearer can use easily. Some people have always worn a wristwatch so having a bracelet around their wrist should feel natural and comfortable to them, while other people may be used to wearing necklaces and find them easier to use.

When we talk about an emergency necklace for the elderly in Australia, we mean a personal alarm device that features an easy-to-press button in case of a fall or other emergency. The alarm is connected to a monitoring centre, or designated contacts who can respond when help is needed.

These monitors provide a 24/7 service in order to assist the wearer whenever they need help, and are also available as wristbands, or a medical alert bracelet.

The Pros and Cons of Wearing a Medical Alert Necklace

For some people there is a stigma about growing old, and not everybody feels comfortable advertising the fact that they are, or feel, vulnerable and need to be using a personal alarm in case of any accidents or emergencies. Where this is the case an alert necklace is the obvious choice.

Pros:

• Necklaces are a more discreet and private way to wear medical information as they can easily be hidden under clothing.

• Many people find wearing a necklace to be more comfortable than wearing a bracelet, especially if the wearer does activities that involve hand movements.

• Medical necklaces are available in a wide variety of designs and styles, allowing for a more personal touch and individual preferences.

Cons:

• Necklaces are less immediately visible than bracelets and may be harder to see in an emergency situation, especially if hidden under clothing.

• Necklaces can pose a hazard in certain situations, for example, during physical activity where they could get caught on an object or tangled.

The Pros and Cons of Wearing a Medical Alert Bracelet

Wearing an alert bracelet offers peace of mind to the wearer and their loved ones, knowing that should an emergency occur vital medical information can quickly be conveyed to a first responder, and help will be on its way in no time.

Pros:

• Bracelets are typically more visible and easily noticed by a first responder during an emergency as they are generally trained to check the wrist first for medical information. This can be crucial when time is of the essence.

• Bracelets can be a safer choice for those who engage in physical activity, as they are less likely to get snagged or caught up compared to necklaces.

• Some people find it more comfortable to wear a bracelet, especially if they don’t like anything around their neck.

• They’re available in a variety of styles and materials so it’s easy for the wearer to pick one to suit their own fashion taste.

Cons:

• For those who work with their hands or have sensitive skin, wearing a medical bracelet can feel bulky or uncomfortable.

• When wearing a bracelet, it may be easier to trigger a false alarm, which can be inconvenient or stressful to the user.

How to Decide Which Personal Safety Item is Best

When choosing whether to wear a medical alert necklace or bracelet make a list of your priorities to help you decide which is best for you. Consider things like comfort and visibility, and which you are most used to wearing so that you will remember to wear it.

If visibility is a priority to you, then a bracelet is the better option, but if you prefer to be discreet then a necklace may be more suitable. If you use your hands a lot a bracelet may be more intrusive, but if you do physical activity then a necklace may be more of a hazard.

Remember, both necklaces and bracelets come in a variety of styles and designs, so you can always choose both to give you an extra layer of security and peace of mind.

At SureSafe Alarms, part of the Bora Health group, we have a passion for helping everyone access these important devices so we have a large range on our site so whatever your budget and style you’re sure to find the right choice for you.