A Few Tips for Buying ID Bracelets for the Elderly

If you’re concerned about an aging parent, relative, friend or neighbor, you might want to think about investing in ID bracelets for the elderly.

These bracelets can keep that person safe in the event of an emergency, as first responders can use the information on the bracelet to determine that person’s condition and the best treatment for them.

ID bracelets for seniors can also be very useful for those who have Alzheimer’s or any other dementia disorder, as this person may appear to be physically fine but, because of their diminished mental capacity, they could not assist in telling someone their own name, their address, and the like.

When you are ready to buy some ID bracelets for the elderly and seniors, note a few tips to keep in mind. This will ensure you get pieces that work with their needs in particular, and that you know they will wear these bracelets and be happy with them for years to come.

1. Start with information

The first thing to consider when it comes to ID bracelets for the elderly is the information the bracelet should display. For some conditions, a simple word is sufficient, such as “DIABETES.” First responders will then know how to assess a person’s symptoms and to administer medication if needed.

However, for other wearers of ID bracelets for seniors, you may need more crucial information. For an Alzheimer’s patient, their name, the emergency contact of a caregiver, their doctor’s name, and other such info can be very important. A person with an allergy to common medications such as penicillin may also need that noted on their bracelet.

Your family doctor is the best source of information about what should be included on ID bracelets for the elderly. He or she can note if there are any important symbols that should be on the front, as well as any other details to include.

2. Consider weight and comfort

When buying ID bracelets for the elderly and seniors, you need to consider the weight of the bracelet as well as its overall comfort, perhaps more so than one you would buy for a child or yourself. Seniors often have a lack of muscle tone in their arms, so that a very heavy chain link bracelet can actually cause muscle fatigue by the end of the day. This can be especially true if the wearer uses their hands and arms often throughout the day, such as someone who works a cash register, tinkers with the car, knits, or who still loves to garden.

Note, too, that an elderly person’s skin might be very sensitive. A wire material for ID bracelets for the elderly might be uncomfortable and even painful, as it may chafe the skin and cause irritation. That heavy metal link bracelet might also cause some skin irritation. A soft silicone rubber can be the best choice for seniors, as it’s very lightweight and very soft. You might also opt for leather or a canvas material, or a soft and lightweight set of beads for the band of ID bracelets for the elderly. Braided parachute material is also very soft and lightweight, and also very durable.

3. Can they manage it on their own?

Another consideration when it comes to choosing ID bracelets for the elderly is if they can manage the bracelet on their own. Arthritic fingers may struggle to open and close a tiny lobster claw clasp, or to hold a chain bracelet in place when trying to open or close it. Many ID bracelets for seniors are purposely made with oversized clasps that are located on either side of the face, so they’re easier to open and close.

A clasp that has two ends that actually twist together might also be an easier choice for a senior, as they can simply hold one end and twist the other to get the bracelet in place. For someone with very limited dexterity and even failing eyesight, oversized silicone rubber ID bracelets for the elderly that simply slide on and that work without any clasp can be even better. A cuff design is also good; this simply slips over the wrist sideways, and then moved into position. Whatever your choice for ID bracelets for the elderly, be sure the wearer can manage it easily and won’t be tempted to leave it at home because they can’t get the clasp to work.

Where To Buy ID Bracelets for the Elderly

There are several dedicated websites that sell such bracelets, like American Medical ID, but by far the biggest collection will be found at Amazon, which has found a way to sell virtually everything.

They have ID bracelets for the elderly based around…

The material they are made of, whether that is rubber, stainless steel or sterling silver
Disease-specific bracelets, like those for epilepsy, allergies or diabetes

My Favorite

My personal favorite is the engraved option, which you can see the sample of below…

It is engravable with your choice of content on the item.  I personally love the “See Med Card” you can put on the bottom so that EMS workers can then go to your wallet or purse to look for the emergency medical card, which will have more in depth information that you cannot fit on the ID bracelet.

This is definitely the type of item that would provide peace of mind for everyone involved so if you are a senior of a caregiver this is something that needs to be a priority in my opinion.