In an emergency, it’s ideal for first responders to know seniors’ medical background, but in the heat of the moment, seniors may not be in a position to explain their health conditions to paramedics or doctors. A medical identification (ID) necklace can help transfer essential information to health providers quickly and improve their chances of receiving proper medical treatment.
Not every medical ID necklace is the same, however. Necklaces range in size, shape, and format. When searching for a medical ID necklace, make sure you find one that meets your needs.
What is a Medical ID Necklace?
A medical ID necklace is typically a chain with an attached tag that individuals wear around their necks either above or beneath clothing. The tag on the chain identifies the medical conditions of the person wearing the necklace by using well-known symbols or letters. In addition to listing medical conditions, the tag may also have a telephone number that first responders can call for more information.
What do Medical ID Necklaces Provide?
According to the American College of Emergency Physicians, when seniors arrive in the emergency department, they can be confused and disoriented. During their hospital stay, their functional and cognitive problems can increase dramatically. If physicians do not fully understand a senior’s health background, they can fail to adequately treat a condition, or they may prescribe medication that actually makes the patient worse. Wearing a medical ID necklace can help reduce the risk of such outcomes. You might wear a medical alert necklace to indicate
- Allergies: Allergic reactions to medications, foods, insects, or environmental substances can cause serious harm, including death. Having a medical ID necklace that lists your allergies helps first responders and health providers better treat you.
- Health conditions: Medical conditions such as diabetes can impact how you are treated. For instance, if patients are required to undergo regular dialysis, health providers need to be aware of this.
- Identification: A medical necklace can help police and medical personnel effectively identify you in an emergency. This can lead to faster notification of family members as well as improved communication between hospital staff and your primary care physician.
- Advance directives: In the event that you have specific rules for being treated, a medical necklace can help inform authorities of your wishes. Some seniors for example, may not want to be resuscitated if found not breathing. Other patients may want physicians to follow specific directives depending on the situation.
Considering the Best Medical ID Necklace for You
When seniors are weighing which medical ID necklace is most ideal, it’s important to keep in mind the different necklace variations. Some necklaces have small tags that merely list certain allergies or medical conditions. Other types are larger and include a patient’s name, address, telephone number, or other identifying criteria. Some necklaces have heavier, longer chains than others. The necklaces can also be made of different materials such as gold, silver, or stainless steel. Considering these factors can help you choose the right medical ID necklace for you and your lifestyle.
Use a Medical ID Necklace to Feel Safe
No matter what medical ID necklace you choose, the most important factor is that you get the right kind of help in a medical emergency. Your well being and future health treatment should be a top priority. You never know when you may suffer a moment of distress. Investing in a medical ID necklace can help you feel more secure and give you some peace of mind.
