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Introduction. When an individual has an issue or medical emergency away from home, alerting their carer network quickly is essential. Of similar importance is ensuring that key information is provided to on scene responders, perhaps to the likes of the ambulance service, first aiders or the police. With advances in technology, there are now numerous tools and devices that make it easier for carers to stay informed and respond promptly, no matter where the person in their care is located.

Alert devices, often worn as pendants, bracelets, or clip-on devices, are specifically designed for emergency situations. These devices usually feature a capability to notify carers in the event of becoming lost or suffering from a fall, injury, or other health episode. Many wearable alert devices have positional location capabilities, so the carer network can immediately determine the person’s whereabouts, which is especially helpful if the individual is confused, lost, or unable to communicate their location. Here we provide a look at some of the main options, including wearables, apps, and tools like RFID-based systems.

GPS Wearables. GPS-enabled wearables have gained popularity as tools for personal safety, especially for incident notification. These devices, equipped with GPS and motion sensors, can detect accidents, falls, or other critical events and automatically alert emergency contacts or authorities. This functionality is invaluable for groups like the elderly, people with health issues, children, and solo adventurers, as it provides peace of mind and enables swift emergency responses that can potentially save lives. Many GPS wearables also come with additional features, such as heart rate monitoring, geofencing, and distress buttons, which add layers of protection and make these devices versatile safety tools.

Despite their benefits, GPS wearables also come with certain challenges. One significant drawback is battery life. Continuous GPS tracking, coupled with other sensors, drains power quickly. This frequent need for recharging can become inconvenient, especially for users who may not have regular access to power sources, such as those on multi-day hikes or extended outdoor trips. Furthermore, when these devices need to be removed for charging, there’s a risk that users may forget to put them back on. This gap in usage could leave them vulnerable during critical times.

Battery life is not the only issue, as some users are also uncomfortable with the idea of continuous location tracking. Privacy concerns are a common deterrent, with some users feeling uneasy knowing that their location is constantly monitored, even if the data is intended for safety. People who value their privacy might see GPS wearables as an invasion, especially if they feel pressured to wear them by family or work requirements. This discomfort may lead some to avoid wearing the devices altogether or to turn off the tracking features, which would reduce the wearables' effectiveness in emergencies.

Smart phones and watches. Smartphones and smartwatches are increasingly used as tools for incident notification, offering users safety features that provide peace of mind when away from home. These devices can detect falls, sudden movements, or other emergencies and notify emergency contacts or emergency services. This feature is especially valuable for the elderly, those with medical conditions, children, and solo travellers, as it can ensure a swift response in critical situations. Many smartphones and smartwatches are equipped with GPS tracking, geofencing, and health monitoring, providing additional safety and enabling users to access real-time location updates and health data.

However, there are also several challenges and limitations to using these devices for incident notification. As with GPS wearable devices, one of the main issues is battery life. Continuous use of GPS, heart rate monitoring, and motion sensors drains battery power quickly, often requiring users to recharge their devices daily or more frequently. If a device runs out of battery during an emergency, it loses its ability to alert contacts, potentially putting the user at risk. Additionally, when users take off devices like smartwatches to charge them, they may forget to put them back on, leaving them without the protection these devices offer.

Cost is another significant factor to consider. Newer models of smartphones and smartwatches with advanced incident detection and notification features can be expensive, making them inaccessible to individuals on tight budgets. There are also challenges associated with the attractiveness of such devices to thieves, given their high value.

Technical complexity may be a barrier for some users. While smartphones and smartwatches come with helpful features, these devices can be challenging to set up and operate for individuals who are less comfortable with technology, particularly older adults. Navigating settings, enabling notifications, installing apps and configuring emergency contacts may feel overwhelming. In some cases, this complexity can lead to improper setup or missed emergency notifications, reducing the effectiveness of these devices as safety tools.

These smart devices are often equipped with data protection functionality, such as screen locks, to prevent unauthorised users gaining access to highly sensitive information often stored on the device. Whilst the use of this protection borders on critical, it can be a drawback to gaining support if the person is unable to personally access their device to unlock it, perhaps due to incapacitation.

NFC or RFID Wearables. RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) and NFC (Near Field Communication) wearable devices are emerging as simple, cost-effective options for incident notification, especially for individuals on the go. These devices, often embedded in bracelets, keychains, or cards, contain stored information that can be accessed by tapping a smartphone or compatible scanner. This accessibility makes them an attractive option for individuals who may need help in an emergency, allowing bystanders or first responders to scan the device and quickly access critical information, such as medical conditions or emergency contacts. When coupled with an incident management service, these devices can be used to simultaneously notify carer networks and to ensure the controlled release of sensitive personal information to those helping.

One of the primary benefits of RFID and NFC wearables is that they do not require a battery, eliminating the frequent recharging that can be a hassle with other incident notification devices. This lack of dependency on power means the device is always ready for use, reducing the risk of failure during emergencies. Additionally, RFID and NFC wearables are typically very simple to use; there are no buttons or settings to configure, making them ideal for people of all ages and levels of technical ability. This simplicity is especially helpful for seniors or individuals who may struggle with more complex devices.

Cost is another advantage of RFID and NFC wearables. These devices are generally inexpensive compared to GPS-enabled or smart incident notification devices, making them accessible to a wide range of users on a budget. Since they rely on existing smartphone infrastructure for scanning and don’t need embedded electronics beyond a simple RFID or NFC chip, they are far more affordable to manufacture and purchase. For families looking to enhance safety without a high price tag, these wearables offer an effective solution.

However, there are some limitations to RFID and NFC wearables. Their functionality depends on someone nearby having a smartphone with NFC scanning capabilities and being willing to assist by scanning the device. These devices do not actively alert emergency contacts or services; they depend on someone being present to assist, which may not always be the case in remote or solitary settings.

Summary. A variety of devices are now available to provide incident notification and emergency support for individuals away from home. From GPS-enabled wearables and smartphones to RFID and NFC devices, each solution offers unique benefits and challenges.

GPS wearables and smartphones provide active alerts and location tracking, enabling fast response times and adding layers of safety, particularly for those with health conditions, the elderly, and solo travellers. However, they come with limitations, such as battery dependency, cost, and the need for regular recharging, which can be a hassle and potentially risky if devices are forgotten. Privacy concerns are also significant for users who feel uneasy about continuous tracking, and the complexity of these devices may be a barrier for some individuals.

Meanwhile, RFID and NFC wearables provide a passive, battery-free alternative that is simple, affordable, and accessible to all. By relying on existing smartphone infrastructure for scanning, they offer a reliable backup for emergency contact information, which can be crucial in critical situations. They depend on bystanders with NFC-compatible smartphones to assist, which may not be practical in all circumstances.

Choosing the right incident notification device depends on the individual’s lifestyle, comfort with technology, budget, and specific needs. While no solution is flawless, each device type contributes to a more connected and responsive support system for those who may face emergencies away from home. As technology evolves, ongoing innovations are likely to address current limitations, enhancing reliability, affordability, and accessibility. For now, these devices offer a range of options, empowering individuals and caregivers alike to make informed choices about safety and peace of mind.