The business of saving lives

Three residents are alive today because of the Medipendant.

Dwain Smith, of ICSS Security Lrd said they assisted in 12 people getting emergency help last year and three of those were life saving.

The Medipendant is a medical alarm and alert system that gives the disabled and seniors access to help at the press of a button. Unlike other systems where the alarm company responds by calling the victim, the Medipendant is a communication device which allows someone to speak to the person without them having to get to a phone.

Mr Smith said they have been offering the service for two years, but are beginning to push it now as the Baby Boomers are becoming seniors.

“They are the fastest growing population on the island. We constantly get phone calls after seniors have had an experience of being on the ground for hours, and, in some instances, days, so we decided this year we needed to place a lot of emphasis on this project.”

The alert system can also be a quick and easy way for seniors to get help if they have a home invasion as well.

Mr Smith said there are other personal emergency response systemw (PERS) in Bermuda.

“But the Medipendant is the only product in which you can conduct an actual dialogue through the pendant itself.”

Commercial

He said nearly everyone’ has seen the “Help, I’ve fallen and can’t get up” commercial.

“I don’t like that commercial because it gives people a false sense of security because if they are on the ground and they can’t get up, what sense does it make for them to call your house?”

He said people could wear the Medipendant on a lanyard around their neck or have it fitted to their wrist like a watch.

Mr Smith said the client will not have to provide any directions to their residence as it will be on file at the ICSS along with any medications, medical history and a contact list in case of emergency.

“We stay on the line with the client until we know they are safely in the company of the EMS, first responders or one of their contacts.”

“We responded to about a dozen emergencies last year. About three of those were life saving. It makes me feel good knowing this.

“I’m a young individual but I’m an advocate for senior citizens. It gives me a feeling of well-being and purpose that I am proving a peace of mind — not only for the senior, but for their family.”

The service costs $240 for six months or $450 for a year. ICSS can be reached at 295-4277.