February 6, 2016 | By: Loretta Castro
Categories: Family Support
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Many of our children can’t speak for themselves. Some can’t remember the medications they are on or who their doctors may be. Others sometimes wander off and do not know their addresses or phone numbers so they can be brought safely back to where they belong. Many children are nonverbal, which becomes a different fear altogether, especially if they have wandered away from you or you have been in an accident.
Today, there are a wide variety of items that provide a voice for people with disabilities or special health care needs. Some of these devices provide important information if your loved one gets lost. Others can speak for your child and help get them back to you. If you’re ever in an accident, the devices can speak for your child as well.
Some of our kids have “invisible” disabilities such as autism, developmental delay, seizures, ADD, ADHD, vision or hearing impairment. Some devices are programmed to store your child’s entire medical chart and can also let paramedics and police know that your child has a disability. These devices can be lifesavers in so many different situations.
Most of us know about the bracelets that identify someone as having diabetes, Alzheimer’s or asthma, for example. Did you know there are waterproof bracelets and pendants with hidden compartments? Some companies sell ICE (in case of emergency) SOS bracelets with waterproof cards that you can use to record important information. Some engravable bracelets even include a special safety clasp so the person wearing it can’t take it off.
There are also medical history bracelets that include a USB with preloaded software that you can use to enter important information. The medical alert symbol on the bracelet lets first responders know that it contains emergency medical information.
Iron-on clothing labels, stickers and bag tags are available that can help you to identify things like allergies. Have you seen the USB Medical ID Wallet Card? This is usually about the size of a business card or electronic hotel key card. It’s usually compatible with any computer’s USB port and can store medical records, contact information and more. There are also metal pill fobs for your keychain or necklace.
To get you started, here are a few links to companies that sell these types of devices:
There are other companies who sell this type of equipment, of course, so be sure to search for them on the internet. Don’t forget to use our Find Services, Groups and Events page to search for more helpful resources.
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