Assure Okay - Check-in App for People Living Alone
What Happens If You Fall and Live Alone?
Understanding the risks and how to protect yourself with modern safety technology
The Reality of Falling When Living Alone
The fear of falling when you live alone is very real and justified. If you fall and can't reach your phone or press an emergency button, you could be on the floor for hours or even days before someone finds you. This scenario is unfortunately common and can lead to serious complications beyond the initial injury.
Critical Statistics
- • One in four adults over 65 falls each year
- • Falls are the leading cause of fatal and non-fatal injuries for older Americans
- • Being on the floor for more than an hour increases mortality risk by 50%
- • Half of those who fall and can't get up die within six months
What Actually Happens When You Fall Alone
Immediate Effects (First Hour)
- Shock, pain, and possible loss of consciousness
- Inability to reach phone or medical alert button
- Attempts to crawl or drag yourself to safety
- Panic and anxiety setting in
After Several Hours
- Dehydration begins
- Pressure sores develop
- Muscle damage from lying in one position
- Hypothermia if on a cold floor
- Increased risk of blood clots
Beyond 24 Hours
- Rhabdomyolysis (muscle breakdown) occurs
- Kidney failure risk increases significantly
- Severe dehydration becomes life-threatening
- Pressure ulcers cause permanent damage
- Long-term hospitalization likely, even if rescued
Common Questions About Falls When Living Alone
How long can you survive if you fall and can't get up?
Survival time depends on multiple factors including your health, the floor temperature, and whether you have access to water. However, medical research shows:
- 12-24 hours: Critical window before serious complications begin
- 24-48 hours: Severe dehydration and muscle breakdown occur
- 72+ hours: Survival becomes increasingly unlikely without intervention
The key is getting help as quickly as possible. Every hour matters in preventing long-term damage or death.
What if I can't reach my phone after falling?
This is exactly why scheduled check-in systems like AssureOkay are superior to relying solely on your ability to call for help. Traditional solutions have limitations:
- Medical alert pendants: Only work if you're conscious and can press the button
- Smart watches with fall detection: Can have false negatives and require you to confirm help is needed
- Your phone: Useless if it's in another room or you can't reach it
AssureOkay's approach is different: If you miss your scheduled check-in (because you've fallen and can't respond), your emergency contacts are automatically notified. You don't need to be able to reach anything or press any buttons.
How can I protect myself from falls when living alone?
Protection requires both prevention and emergency response planning:
Fall Prevention:
- Remove tripping hazards (rugs, cords)
- Install grab bars in bathroom
- Improve lighting throughout home
- Wear appropriate footwear
- Exercise to improve balance
- Review medications with doctor
Emergency Response:
- Daily check-in system (AssureOkay)
- Medical alert system
- Smart watch with fall detection
- Emergency contacts know your schedule
- Neighbors have spare key
- Phone kept accessible
Is a check-in system better than a fall detection device?
Both have advantages, and using them together provides the best protection. However, check-in systems offer some unique benefits:
| Feature | Check-In System | Fall Detection |
|---|---|---|
| Detects All Emergencies | Yes (any reason for missing check-in) | No (only falls) |
| False Alarms | Rare | Common |
| Monthly Cost | $4.99 | $30-50+ |
| Must Wear Device | No | Yes |
| Works if Unconscious | Yes (you miss check-in) | Yes (detects fall) |
How AssureOkay Protects You From Falls
AssureOkay uses scheduled check-ins to ensure someone knows if you need help, even if you can't call for it:
Daily Check-Ins
Set a time each day to confirm you're okay. Takes 10 seconds with one tap, SMS, or voice response.
Automatic Alerts
If you miss your check-in (because you've fallen and can't respond), all emergency contacts are immediately notified.
Multiple Contacts
Up to 5 people are alerted simultaneously, ensuring someone can come help you quickly.
Emergency Information
Your contacts receive your location, medical information, and access instructions (spare key location) so they can help effectively.
Don't Wait Until It's Too Late
Protect yourself now with AssureOkay's daily check-in system. Falls happen unexpectedly - be prepared.