Guest Blog
Almost 50% of adults with disabilities in the United States report being happy with their quality of life, the Centers for Disease Control reveals. If you’re living with a disability, recent advancements in technology can help you live a more empowered and independent life—with help still close to hand when you need it. From smart ID tags to GPS watches, these devices can store your medical details so healthcare providers can quickly access accurate information and provide you with the treatment you need. Some even have SOS features that let you immediately put you through to your emergency contacts at the push of a button.
Smart ID tags
Smart ID tags can help you maintain your peace of mind along with your independence. Aurora smart tags, for example, are smart keyfobs that can easily attach to your keychain or belt loop, so they’re always with you at home or on the go. All you need to do is enter your medical details on the Aurora app. These details include your name, address, medical conditions, allergies, and medications—all the things first responders need to know during a medical emergency. So, if something were to happen and you’re left unable to talk, a first responder can simply scan the smart tag with their smartphone, access your medical details, and provide the right treatment for your condition as quickly as possible. As people with disabilities have twice the risk of developing chronic health conditions than those without disabilities, fast access to accurate treatment becomes all the more important.
Engraved medical warning tags
But medical tags don’t have to be high-tech to be effective. For example, red medical warning tags are simple metal dog tags engraved with your medical information. The tag’s red color makes them stand out to medical professionals, so they’re easy to find in an emergency. Anyone with a serious medical condition or allergies to certain drugs or medications is typically eligible for one of these tags. As medication errors—when patients are delivered the wrong medication—are one of the most common types of medical errors in the U.S, medication safety should always be a top priority.
Fortunately, when healthcare providers have access to accurate medical records, they find it far easier to deliver the correct medication (nurses estimate medication errors to decrease by 30% as a result of accurate medical records, one study in BMC Nursing found). Medical tags can, therefore, be a useful way to accurately inform medical professionals of your condition, medications, and allergies so you can receive the correct medication and treatment you need.
GPS watches
GPS watches can also help you live a safer, more independent life by providing your family members with real-time location updates, which allow them to check in and see that you’re okay. In particular, the CoCo Smartwatch is a good option, especially if you have health issues. In addition to monitoring your location in real-time, this Bluetooth-enabled watch also tracks health metrics, such as heart rate, blood oxygen levels, body temperature, and even your sleep pattern. A notification is immediately sent to your family and/or caregivers if a problem is detected. And, if you fall down and don’t get back up within twenty seconds, the CoCo Smartwatch also alerts your designated carers in this case. Just like smart tags, it also retains your medical details, including medical conditions and allergies, so correct and timely treatment can be given.
The CoCo Smartwatch also makes it easier for you to stay in good health in general. For instance, medication reminders mean you’ll never forget your meds. Relatives or caregivers can schedule medication times and dosages remotely through the CoCo app. It also reminds you to get up, stretch, walk around, and drink some water if it senses that you’ve stayed in your seat for too long.
Smart ID medical solutions can improve the quality of life for adults with disabilities. From smart ID tags to GPS watches, these exciting advancements in technology can help you live life on your own terms, but with peace of mind that the right help will always be there when you need it.
by Nina
Nina C. S. is passionate about breaking down tough ideas into enjoyable reads. She's always eager to find new platforms and connect with more readers. Outside of writing, she loves discovering cozy cabins and mountain retreats, and relaxing with her family and friends.