Q. My neighbor, Suzanne, is an avid jogger. I always see her out jogging early in the morning while I’m walking my pups. She’s got all the gear, including one of those newer Apple watches. 

The other day, Suzanne was speed walking instead of jogging, with her arm in a sling. I caught up with her and joined her for a block and a half. She explained how she tripped over a crack in the sidewalk and broke her arm. She described how, upon impact, her Apple watch asked if she fell and she answered that she had. It quickly alerted authorities and an ambulance arrived shortly after and took her to the emergency room. I was amazed that a wristwatch can do such a thing, and think something like that could be great for seniors who are prone to falling.  

 So, here I am thinking that I should purchase a smart watch for my mother, who lives alone and has fallen a few times recently, but I want to make sure I know what is out there so I can make an informed decision. Can you tell me what are the best safety alert devices available for fall detection? Thanks so much for your help!

Dear Angel, 

I am thinking of buying my mother a smartwatch with fall prevention features on it for her birthday, but I'm worried she won't wear it. What is the likelihood that seniors in general actually wear these devices? 

Thanks for your help! 

Anita Kno