Baby Boomers-Caregivers Turning to Monitoring Systems for Answers

HUNTSVILLE, AL, January 12, 2011 (Press-News.org) The graying of America hits a new level in January, as the first of the nation's 77 million baby boomers turns 65 years old. However surveys show boomers are hitting retirement age under great stress because they are struggling to balance the demands of a full time job and raising a family while also caring for a family member. That's why Halo Monitoring, maker of myHalo, the most advanced medical alarm with automatic fall detection, suggests boomers consider using a fall monitoring system as a way to provide peace of mind to both seniors and their families.

"Baby boomers are responsible for the care of both their aging parents and their own children, an overwhelming task most of us aren't prepared for," says Chris Otto, CEO of Halo Monitoring. "Families want to respect an elderly loved ones wishes to live at home where it's familiar and comfortable, but someone needs to be available just in case. Monitoring systems provide additional security and peace of mind."

A new study from Humana shows how so-called "sandwich boomers" -those caring for their own children and their parents- are feeling the pressure.

• 80% of boomers feel moderate to high levels of stress related to the care or support they are giving to children, spouses and/or parents.
• 68% of boomers have missed work or left early due to caregiving duties.
• 46% of boomers worry about caregiving affecting their job.
• 46% of boomers have given up social activities.
• 43% of boomers have skipped a vacation.

myHalo eases that stress by providing a small comfortable, wireless device worn by a senior loved one, myHalo provides protection for a senior loved one when a family member or caregiver can't be there. The advanced myHalo system is the first wearable medical alarm that sends an automatic alert- no need to push a button- in the event of a fall. In addition, while most medical alarms only react to an emergency, myHalo is the first system of its kind to monitor the user's health and physical activity 24/7. Through the use of a private, secure website, the system provides the ability for designated persons and family to "look-in" on an elderly loved one for peace of mind without invading their personal privacy.

Howard and Sue Long, who live in York, Pennsylvania, talked with each other and their children before deciding to get myHalo for Howard as a precaution. He's 84 and has undergone several hip replacements.

"I'm pretty active and didn't think I needed it but my wife and our children insisted," says Long. "A few months after the system was activated, I fell while moving a piece of furniture. The myHalo call center was on the phone in seconds making sure I was ok. That quick response convinced me myHalo was worth it. My whole family agrees."

"Every families needs are different and there are many tools and services available to help maintain independence, but myHalo has the most advanced fall detection and is a critical part of any complete care plan," adds Otto.

About Halo Monitoring:
Halo Monitoring's products assure security for seniors and peace of mind for their caregivers. The advanced myHalo system is the first medical alarm that sends an automatic alert- no need to push a button- in the event of a fall. While most medical alarms are only able to react to an emergency, myHalo is the first system of its kind to provide 24/7 activity and health monitoring. Seniors get proactive care when they need it, while remaining independent.
Website: http://www.halomonitoring.com