CGM Alarms Not Working: Troubleshooting Guide

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CGM Alarms Not Working: Troubleshooting Guide for Seniors

This article provides general guidance for troubleshooting issues like CGM alarms not working. Always consult your healthcare provider or device manufacturer for specific medical advice. In case of emergency, contact emergency services.

When your CGM alarms are not working properly, it can be worrying and frustrating. As a senior managing diabetes, you rely on these important alerts to keep your blood sugar levels safe. Let’s walk through some simple steps to get your CGM alarms working again.

Why Your CGM Alarms Might Stop Working

Before we fix the problem, let’s understand why CGM alarms sometimes stop working:

  • Volume settings accidentally changed
  • Phone or receiver in ‘Silent’ or ‘Do Not Disturb’ mode
  • Low battery on your device
  • App permissions need updating
  • Bluetooth connection issues
  • Outdated app version
  • Signal loss between sensor and device

📱 Helpful Tip: Ask a grandchild or family member to sit with you while troubleshooting. They can help you see small screen details and follow the steps together.

Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Guide

1. Check Your Device Volume

First, let’s make sure your device’s volume is turned on:

For smartphones:

  • Press the volume buttons on the side of your phone
  • Look for the volume bar on your screen
  • Make sure it’s not on vibrate or silent (no crossed-out speaker icon)
  • Set volume to at least 50% or higher

For CGM receivers:

  • Look for the speaker icon on your screen
  • Press Menu or Settings button
  • Find “Sound” or “Audio” settings
  • Adjust volume to medium or high

Test Your Sound:

  • Play a ringtone or alarm sound
  • If you can’t hear it, increase volume
  • Check if you’re wearing hearing aids – adjust them too

2. Verify Alert Settings in Your CGM App

Your CGM app has its own alarm settings separate from your phone:

For FreeStyle Libre:

  1. Open the FreeStyle Libre app
  2. Tap the menu (three lines) in the corner
  3. Select “Alarms”
  4. Make sure alarms are turned “ON”
  5. Check each alarm level (High, Low, Signal Loss)

For Dexcom:

  1. Open your Dexcom app
  2. Tap “Settings”
  3. Select “Alerts”
  4. Verify alerts are enabled
  5. Adjust alert levels if needed

3. Fix “Do Not Disturb” Settings

Many seniors accidentally turn on “Do Not Disturb” mode:

On iPhone:

  • Look for a moon symbol at the top of your screen
  • Go to Settings → Do Not Disturb
  • Turn it OFF or add your CGM app to “Allowed Apps”

On Android:

  • Swipe down from the top of your screen
  • Look for “Do Not Disturb” icon
  • Tap to turn it off
  • Or go to Settings → Sound → Do Not Disturb → Add exceptions

4. Check Bluetooth Connection

CGM alarms won’t work if Bluetooth is disconnected:

Quick Bluetooth Check:

  1. Look for the Bluetooth symbol on your phone (looks like a sideways bowtie)
  2. Make sure it’s blue or highlighted (not gray)
  3. If gray, tap to turn it on

Reconnect Your CGM:

  1. Go to phone Settings
  2. Find Bluetooth
  3. Look for your CGM device name
  4. If it says “Not Connected,” tap to reconnect
  5. You may need to tap “Forget Device” and pair again

5. Update App Permissions

Your CGM app needs permission to send notifications:

For iPhone:

  1. Go to Settings
  2. Scroll down to find your CGM app
  3. Tap on it
  4. Find “Notifications”
  5. Make sure “Allow Notifications” is ON
  6. Turn on “Sounds” and “Badges”

For Android:

  1. Go to Settings
  2. Tap “Apps” or “Applications”
  3. Find your CGM app
  4. Tap “Permissions” or “Notifications”
  5. Allow all notifications

6. Check Battery Levels

Low battery can cause alarm failures:

  • Phone battery: Keep above 20%
  • CGM receiver battery: Charge daily
  • Consider: Keep charger by your bedside
  • Helpful: Set a daily charging reminder

7. Update Your CGM App

Outdated apps can have alarm problems:

To Update:

  1. Open App Store (iPhone) or Play Store (Android)
  2. Tap your profile picture
  3. Scroll to find pending updates
  4. Look for your CGM app
  5. Tap “Update” if available

Can’t find it? Ask someone to help you search for your CGM app by name.

Device-Specific Solutions

FreeStyle Libre Alarm Issues

Common Fix:

  • Force close the app (swipe up and swipe away)
  • Restart your phone
  • Open FreeStyle Libre app again
  • Re-scan your sensor

LibreLink App Tips:

  • Make sure “Critical Alerts” is ON
  • Check “Alarm Tone” isn’t set to “None”
  • Verify time settings are correct

Dexcom Alarm Problems

G6/G7 Specific:

  • Check “Alert Schedule” isn’t silencing alarms
  • Verify “Alert Sound” is selected (not vibrate only)
  • Make sure “Repeat” is set for important alerts

Follow App:

  • If using Dexcom Follow, check both apps
  • Ensure follower notifications are active

Advanced Troubleshooting

If basic steps didn’t work, try these:

Reset Network Settings

Warning: This will erase saved WiFi passwords

  1. Go to Settings
  2. Find “General” or “System”
  3. Look for “Reset”
  4. Choose “Reset Network Settings”
  5. Reconnect to WiFi and Bluetooth

Reinstall Your CGM App

  1. Press and hold the app icon
  2. Tap “Delete” or the X
  3. Go to App Store/Play Store
  4. Search for your CGM app
  5. Download again
  6. Sign in with your account

Check for Interference

Remove potential signal blockers:

  • Metal phone cases
  • Magnetic mounts
  • Other Bluetooth devices nearby
  • Microwave ovens (when in use)

Creating a Backup Alarm System

Don’t rely only on CGM alarms:

Additional Safety Measures:

  • Set phone alarms for regular checking times
  • Use a traditional alarm clock as backup
  • Ask family to call at specific times
  • Consider a medical alert system
  • Keep glucose meter bedside

Family Support Options:

  • Set up follower apps for family members
  • Share your glucose data with caregivers
  • Create a check-in schedule
  • Post emergency numbers visibly

When to Call for Help

Contact support if:

  • Alarms still don’t work after troubleshooting
  • You see error messages
  • Sensor readings seem wrong
  • You feel unsafe without working alarms

Important Phone Numbers:

  • FreeStyle Libre Support: 1-855-632-8658
  • Dexcom Support: 1-888-738-3646
  • Peak Medical Supplies: 888-649-5705
  • Your Doctor: (Keep number handy)

Preventing Future Alarm Problems

Daily Habits:

  • Check alarm settings each morning
  • Test one alarm weekly
  • Keep devices charged
  • Update apps monthly
  • Clean your phone speaker (gently!)

Monthly Maintenance:

  • Review all alarm settings
  • Check for app updates
  • Test emergency contacts
  • Replace phone case if damaged
  • Back up your CGM data

Medicare Coverage for CGM Support

Medicare covers CGM devices and may cover:

  • Replacement receivers if defective
  • Technical support visits
  • Training on device use
  • Backup supplies

Important: Keep records of alarm malfunctions for Medicare documentation if you need device replacement.

Quick Reference Card

Print and keep this handy:

CGM Alarms Not Working? Try This Order:

  1. ✓ Check phone volume
  2. ✓ Check app volume
  3. ✓ Turn off Do Not Disturb
  4. ✓ Check Bluetooth is ON
  5. ✓ Restart your phone
  6. ✓ Update your app
  7. ✓ Call support if needed

Getting Additional Help

Local Resources:

  • Senior centers often have tech help days
  • Libraries may offer device assistance
  • Diabetes educators can provide training
  • Ask pharmacy staff for basic help

Online Support:

  • Device manufacturer websites
  • YouTube tutorials (search “[your CGM] alarm setup”)
  • Diabetes online communities
  • Medicare.gov for coverage questions

The Bottom Line

When your CGM alarms are not working, stay calm and work through these steps systematically. Most alarm problems have simple solutions like volume settings or app permissions. Remember, you’re not alone – help is available from manufacturers, healthcare providers, and support services.

Keep this guide bookmarked or printed for easy reference. With patience and the right steps, you can get your CGM alarms working reliably again, giving you peace of mind in managing your diabetes.

Need help with Medicare CGM coverage or device support? Peak Medical Supplies specialists can help you navigate Medicare requirements and get the supplies you need. Call us at 888-649-5705 for personalized assistance.

Meta Description: Simple solutions when your CGM alarms are not working. Easy-to-follow guide for seniors to troubleshoot common CGM alert problems and restore safety features.

Social Description: 

Excerpt: When CGM alarms stop working, it can be concerning for seniors managing diabetes. This guide provides clear, step-by-step solutions to restore your CGM alerts and maintain your safety. Learn simple fixes you can try today.

Need Help with Medicare CGM Coverage?

Our specialists can help you navigate Medicare requirements and get the supplies you need.

Call Now: 888-649-5705

 

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