When a medical emergency strikes, you may not always be there to speak on your loved one’s behalf. An Alzheimer’s bracelet or other form of medical identification lets others know that your loved one has a cognitive impairment. It can also provide important information, like what medications they take or the phone numbers of people to contact in an emergency.

You might wonder how a medical ID can help, what kinds are available, and whether it’s right for your loved one. Here are three important reasons why an Alzheimer’s bracelet is a good idea.

1. It Communicates When Your Loved One Can’t

A medical alert bracelet lets others know that the person wearing it has Alzheimer’s disease. If your loved one is in an emergency and surrounded by strangers, this information is crucial for getting them the help they need.

Sometimes, it’s not obvious that someone has Alzheimer’s disease. The person might look and sound normal but have a distorted view of what’s happening to them or what they need.

Medical IDs can also list important details like medications, allergies, and emergency contacts. When your loved one wears a medical ID, it quickly tells first responders that the person has Alzheimer’s and may need extra medical attention or support. Paramedics usually check for medical information on a person’s body, in their wallet or purse, or on their phones.

A survey by American Medical ID found that more than 95 percent of emergency responders look for medical IDs during health emergencies. Medical IDs like Alzheimer’s bracelets provide vital health information to others that could save your loved one’s life.

Most medical IDs are customized to reflect a person’s unique health needs. They often include important information such as:

• The person’s full name
• Their Alzheimer’s diagnosis, as well as any other medical conditions (like diabetes, asthma, or serious allergies to food or medication)
• Medications they take for Alzheimer’s
• Emergency contacts (like a caregiver, spouse, or close friend)
• The name and contact information of their health care provider

When health care providers can quickly access this information, it helps them provide safe and effective treatment. Knowing what medications your loved one already takes helps prevent dangerous interactions. If your loved one has allergies to medications, a medical alert can help avoid an allergic reaction. And if they take any maintenance medications to keep health conditions under control, emergency providers can ensure they don’t miss a dose, which could prevent serious health issues.

2. Available in Many Styles

A medical ID bracelet is an easy and effective way to communicate about medical conditions during emergencies. Medical ID bracelets don’t require service or maintenance, and they don’t run on batteries.

There are various options for medical IDs, including watches, necklaces, ID cards, tags, pendants, and key fobs. Most medical jewelry allows you to engrave the information of your choice, while others have slots for paper inserts. In the U.S., medical IDs usually display the Star of Life symbol, which represents emergency medical services. This shows emergency services that the wearer has a medical condition.

Depending on the style of jewelry and the seller, medical ID jewelry can range from just a few dollars for silicone bracelets to $15 or more for custom-engraved stainless steel styles. You can also find free medical ID cards online to print at home. However, if you’re worried that your loved one might remove their medical alert jewelry or forget to wear it, you might want to consider other options.

Audio Medical IDs

Audio medical IDs are small audio recorders that clip onto clothing. They let you save important information as an audio file for emergency responders to listen to. You can record a message that includes first aid details or any relevant medical information. This way, first responders can hear clear instructions instead of relying on potentially unreliable information from your loved one.

USB Devices

Another option is a USB device that can hold medical information. You can attach it to a dog tag or wristband. Medical information is confidential and should be stored and accessed securely. When looking for a USB medical ID, make sure it has an encryption feature and proper security guarantees from the manufacturer.

Medical Tattoos

Some people choose medical ID tattoos. These tattoos display important information directly on the body. It’s essential to talk to your loved one’s health care provider about whether getting a tattoo is safe for them and if they think it’s a good option.

Smartphone Apps for Medical ID

Some smartphones allow access to medical information from the lock screen without needing a password. If your loved one has an iPhone, you can set up a smart medical ID by following specific instructions. If your loved one has an Android or another non-iOS phone, you may need to download an app. Simply search for “medical ID app” on the Google Play Store or your phone manufacturer’s app store.

Near-field communication technology lets devices communicate over short distances. It can be used with wristbands, wallet cards, or key fobs that allow medical professionals to access vital medical information on a secure website. This information can include care plans, prescriptions, and your loved one’s medical history.

3. Provides Peace of Mind

Being a caregiver for someone with Alzheimer’s disease can be both physically and emotionally challenging. You might worry about their safety and well-being, especially if they’re still independent and going out alone. One member of myALZteam expressed, “The stress of caregiving, even for someone who can still function normally in the eyes of strangers, is excruciating.”

Getting a medical ID bracelet or another medical ID solution for your loved one with Alzheimer’s can give you peace of mind. With a medical ID, you can feel more secure knowing that whatever happens, they have a better chance of receiving appropriate care and support.

Talk With Others Who Understand

On myALZteam, the social network for people with Alzheimer’s disease and their loved ones, more than 86,000 members come together to ask questions, give advice, and share their stories with others who understand life with Alzheimer’s.

Does your loved one wear a medical alert ID? What other precautions have you taken for them in case of emergency? Share your experience in the comments below, or start a conversation by posting on your Activities page.