My parents are quite elderly and have fallen a number of times. I’ve been looking for some kind of device that could help them if they fall and found various references to wearable airbags. One of them looks like a fat belt.
I have not been able to find anywhere to actually purchase such a device. I did find a wearable motorcycle vest that’s an airbag but am not sure if that would work for someone simply falling down in the house.
Here’s the kind of thing I’m talking about. This particular device does not seem to be currently for sale.
I submitted a query to the vendor referred to above, but while I’m waiting over the weekend I thought I’d ask the Dopers about it…
motorcycle airbag jackets/vests seem to be about protecting the spine and neck, not so much the hips.
The airbag belt you linked to is a noble cause, but given the expense involved, and the frequency with which deployment might be expected, I’m not optimistic about this being a viable commercial product.
If you’re looking to protect your parents from a fall, I think the most productive approach is to minimize the likelihood of a fall in the first place. About a year ago we began installing railings all over my parents’ house; it became rare for them to be somewhere in the house where a handhold wasn’t available.
A walker (if you can convince your parents to use one) also helps.
If getting up after a fall is a problem, have them keep a cell phone in their pocket all the time so the can call for help while they’re lying on the floor.
As far as mitigating the medical consequences of a fall, that’s difficult. Unless your parents are willing to wear a helmet and motorcyclist’s hip armor, I don’t think there’s a lot you can do.
Agree with modify the home, not get them something that they will most likely not wear after a initial trial. Soften the floors, padded carpet or thick padding over a floating floor, grab bars, etc.
I heard back from the company. The airbag is still in development, and when they roll it out, it will first go to nursing homes. Thanks for the other advice!