Best Medical Alert Systems for Veterans, Tested and Reviewed
The best medical alert systems for veterans offer discounts and features designed for those who have served our country, including fast response times, affordable rates, and 24/7 monitoring.
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- Multiple two-for-one systems
- 30-day risk-free trial
- 24/7 U.S.-based professional monitoring center
- Affordable medical alert systems
- Monthly discounts for veterans
- Service donation program for qualifying veterans with low income
- Affordable systems for veterans on fixed incomes
- Seasonal discounts and promotions
- Smartwatch systems for active veterans
- Discounts for members of The American Legion
- Both simple and high-tech systems
- Price lock for life
Contents
Reliable medical alert systems are must-haves for many older veterans. By investing in a good medical alert system, you are choosing freedom and independence — what you worked so hard to provide for our country and everyone in it. Some medical alert companies provide discounts or other perks for veterans as a thank you for serving.
Our senior tech experts researched, tested, and compared dozens of the best medical alert systems to find the ones that are best for veterans. We chose the systems on our list using important criteria like benefits for veterans, response times, caregiver support, price, and more.
Our Top Four Medical Alert Systems for Veterans
Our Methodology: How We Chose and Tested the Best Medical Alert Systems for Veterans
- Veteran benefits: Every provider on our list offers specific benefits to veterans in one form or another. For most veterans, this means discounts on equipment fees or monthly premiums.
- Caregiver support: We like to find medical alert systems that go beyond monitoring centers. Many older veterans have caregivers and loved ones who want to make sure that their loved ones are safe. For this reason, we chose providers that offer things like caregiver mobile apps and automated notifications to trusted caregivers in the event of an emergency.
- Fast response times: Fast response times are one of the most important features of any medical alert system. We tested out each of the systems on our list to ensure they could get an emergency response agent on the line in under a minute.
- Affordable rates: We want veterans to have access to reliable, high-quality protection without putting a dent in their wallet. All of the providers on our list have at least one alert system available for under $35 per month. Additionally, any expensive plans offered by the companies offer excellent value.
- Reliable equipment: We tested out the help buttons and devices to make sure they could withstand everyday wear and tear. All of the providers on this list passed our tests with flying colors.
- GPS tracking: With veterans suffering from higher rates of PTSD and other chronic health conditions,1 we know how important it is for them to stay protected at all times, including when they’re on the go. The providers on our list all have mobile systems available with built-in GPS technology, so they can be easily located and helped no matter where they are.
- 24/7 monitoring: An emergency can happen at any time, so 24/7 professional monitoring is essential. You’ll find that 24/7 monitoring comes included with every system on our list.
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1. MobileHelp - Best Two-for-One Monitoring
What we like most
- Multiple two-for-one systems
- 30-day risk-free trial
- 24/7 U.S.-based professional monitoring center
MobileHelp
Our Editor Jeff Hoyt Testing Out MobileHelp
Overview
Veteran Discount: Discount on monthly rates; free MobileHelp Connect Premium with any purchase; $200 Visa gift card for referrals
MobileHelp offers a variety of perks for veterans that make them a great option for those who served our country. Veterans will receive a monthly discount on the medical alert system of their choice. They’ll also get access to MobileHelp Connect Premium at no extra cost, including features like GPS tracking, which is great for caregivers. Connect Premium, an add-on that normally costs $6 per month, covers the cost of any lost, stolen, or damaged equipment, which could save you hundreds of dollars. Plus, you’ll receive discounts on extra equipment and accessories, and your monthly rates will be locked in for life.
With a versatile lineup of on-the-go and two-for-one spouse systems, MobileHelp is a solid option for veterans of various lifestyles, whether they live alone or with a partner. We think it’s a particularly good fit for veterans who live with a spouse or roommate, as you can get two systems for the price of one. Even if your household just needs one system, MobileHelp’s monthly prices are pretty affordable, though some of their top-tier systems are on the pricier end (but not quite as expensive as Alert1’s top-tier plan).
» Pricing Guide: MobileHelp medical alert system cost and pricing
If you sign up for MobileHelp and end up loving it, make sure to recommend it to your fellow veterans and friends. You’ll earn a $200 Visa gift card for each person who signs up for MobileHelp thanks to your referral! MobileHelp has also supported the Wounded Warrior Project through both monetary and equipment donations. MobileHelp offers the most perks and discounts for veterans we’ve seen. Knowing the company you’re supporting also supports you and your fellow veterans is a big bonus in our book!
Heads Up: You’ll need to call the company to cash in on any of the veterans discounts we cover on this list.
Pros About MobileHelp
- Numerous discounts and perks for veterans
- Supports Wounded Warrior Project
- Affordable spouse monitoring options
- Large, versatile product lineup
- Affordable monthly rates
- No long-term contracts
- 30-day risk-free trial
- 240+ languages supported
Cons About MobileHelp
- Subpar location tracking for caregivers
- Additional device is required for automatic fall detection
MobileHelp Products and Pricing Details
MobileHelp system Prices starting at Best for Connection type MobileHelp Classic $19.95 per month At-home users with strong cellular coverage; Those who don’t want to connect to a landline jack Cellular AT&T connection MobileHelp Wired Home $26.95 per month Users who spend a lot of time at home; areas with poor cellular service Landline MobileHelp Touch Classic $54.95 per month Users who want a high-tech touchscreen system; seniors who need advanced health and safety features Cellular AT&T connection MobileHelp Duo $46.95 per month Spouses or roommates; users who spend time at home & on the go Cellular AT&T connection Mobile Duo $49.95 per month Spouses or roommates who spend a lot of time away from home Cellular AT&T connection MobileHelp Solo $41.95 per month One active user; areas with strong AT&T coverage Cellular AT&T connection MobileHelp Micro $39.95 per month Users who want a discreet mobile device Cellular AT&T connection MobileHelp Touch Duo $54.95 per month Users who want a high-tech touchscreen system; those who spend time at home and on the go; seniors who need advanced health and safety features Cellular AT&T connection Caregiver Support
The level of support for caregivers varies based on the plan you choose. For example, if you opt for the higher-tier MobileHelp Touch Duo package, the touch screen can serve as an in-home connection hub for everyone. This can help caregivers who live with an older veteran better manage care, set up medication reminders, and even keep track of the temperature in the home.
» Further Reading: 2024 MobileHelp review
With any plan that includes a mobile GPS device, MobileHelp Connect Premium (free for veterans) also includes 60 location requests per month for caregivers. Those who don’t have Connect Premium only get 30 location requests per month, so that’s twice the requests. When testing out MobileHelp, we were able to “ping” our system and get an exact GPS location at any time. If your loved one is prone to wandering or you just want to check in from time to time, this is an excellent feature. Connect Premium also offers discounts on accessories, medication reminders, and activity tracking. This service typically costs $6 per month or $72 per year, so this is a solid deal for veterans.
» Helpful Resource: Best GPS medical alert systems
While we loved that MobileHelp includes the GPS feature for veterans at no extra charge, we don’t like MobileHelp’s location-tracking system. We couldn’t simply open an app and see the device’s location at any time (like we could with Aloe Care Health). We had to send a location request via the web portal and get a text with the device’s location. While this works pretty well in practice, it’s not great for older adults who wander, as it just sends a screenshot of their location at the time of the request. Moreover, you only get 60 requests per month with Connect Premium. While that’s a solid amount, it does limit the amount you can check in on the user.
Response Times
We initiated several test calls with the MobileHelp Touch Duo package. This system comes with an at-home base unit, wearable help button, and a GPS unit that you can wear on the go. Calling for help was simple, no matter which piece of equipment we used. The base unit has a bright red emergency button and the GPS unit has a large gray call button. All we had to do was press the button. Then, the system’s two-way speaker said, “Call in progress, please stand by for an operator.” After an average of 25 to 30 seconds, we were connected to what MobileHelp calls a Critical Event Specialist who asked if we needed any help.
Testing out MobileHelp’s wearable help button
MobileHelp’s average response times of 25 to 30 seconds were slower than the rest of the company’s on this list. You’ll still receive relatively fast response times during an emergency, but just not the fastest service on the market.
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2. Alert1 - Best Language Support
What we like most
- Affordable medical alert systems
- Monthly discounts for veterans
- Service donation program for qualifying veterans with low income
Alert1
Our Editor-in-Chief testing out Alert1’s home system
Overview
Veteran Discount: Discounted rates for veterans; Alert1 Cares Program donates unused service to veteransAlert1 offers monthly discounts on their medical alert systems to veterans. Alert1’s prices are affordable even before discounts, starting at just $19.95 per month for 12-month payment plans, so adding on a veteran discount makes it a great option for those on a tight budget. Keep in mind that month-to-month plans will cost a bit more. You’ll also need to contact Alert1 directly for the latest veteran discounts. Still, if you don’t mind signing up for a year of service in advance, you can save a lot compared to costlier providers like Aloe Care Health. Like LifeStation, Alert1 does not charge equipment fees, which can help make it easier to pay a year in advance and enjoy lower premiums.
» Pricing Guide: Alert1 review and pricing in 2024
Alert1 also has a service donation program to help veterans who can’t afford a medical alert system. If an existing customer cancels their service before reaching the end of their contract, the customer can choose to donate the unused service to a veteran in need. We appreciate that Alert1 goes above and beyond to give back to those who protected our country.
In addition to the competitive pricing, Alert1 is also a great option for non-native speakers. If you’re a veteran whose first language is not English, or a veteran who speaks multiple languages fluently, Alert1 has you covered. Their systems offer emergency response and customer support in 190 languages!
» Dive Deeper: Alert1 review
Alert1 offers both in-home and mobile systems, along with a bundle that provides both systems, which we tested. They have all of the essential medical alert features, including waterproof equipment, fall detection (for an extra $10 per month), and a U.S.-based 24/7 monitoring center. If you’re satisfied with your Alert1 service, you can refer your friends and fellow veterans. If you do, you’ll both receive a free month of service!
Pros About Alert1
- Veteran, AAA, AARP, and refer-a-friend discounts
- Veteran service donation program
- 30-day risk-free trial
- No equipment fees
- Cellular and landline options
- Affordable systems
- U.S.-based monitoring center
- Support in 190 languages
- Extensive add-on features and equipment
Cons About Alert1
- Minimal caregiver support
- Best premiums require 12-month contract
- No lifetime warranty
Alert1 Products and Pricing Details
Alert1 system Prices starting at Best for Connection type In-the-Home $28.95 per month ($19.95 per month with annual plan) At-home users with a landline connection; those with weak cellular coverage Landline connection In-the-Home + Fall Detection $38.95 per month ($29.95 per month with prepaid annual plan) At-home users with a reliable cellular connection Landline or AT&T cellular connection On-the-Go $38.95 per month ($29.95 per month with prepaid annual plan) On-the-go users Verizon or AT&T cellular connection On-The-Go + Fall Detection $48.95 per month ($58.95 per month with prepaid annual plan) On-the-go users who need fall detection Verizon or AT&T cellular connection On-the-Go Wrist Watch with GPS, Pedometer, and Fall Detection Included $39.95 per month ($48.95 per month with prepaid annual plan) Active users who want a discreet device Verizon or AT&T cellular connection On-The-Go + In-the-Home + Fall Detection $58.95 per month ($49.95 per month with prepaid annual plan) At-home and on-the-go users; couples or roommates Landline or AT&T cellular connection Caregiver Support
After testing the on-the-go and in-home systems for a week, we agreed they are primarily designed for couples or single seniors who prefer greater independence. Alert1 doesn’t have many caregiver features, which we were pretty disappointed by. Caregiver features like GPS tracking and mobile apps have become pretty standard with medical alert systems. The only feature we could find was the ability to establish a Circle of Care for family or friends who will be called in the event of an emergency.
» Learn About: Best medical alert apps
Alert1 doesn’t offer a mobile app like Aloe Care Health does. We couldn’t even check on the device’s location via text like LifeStation. So, if you’re a veteran who doesn’t want or need a caregiver checking on you, Alert1 is a great deal. Otherwise, you might be better off with a provider like Aloe Care Health or MobileHelp.
Response Times
During our testing, we experienced average response times of around 22 seconds with Alert1’s In-the-Home + Fall Detection system. To call for help, we pressed the help button on our wearable fall detection pendant. Then, a friendly agent answered the call and asked us if we needed help. We let him know we were just making a test call, and he reminded us that Alert1 is always there if we need help.
Testing out an Alert1 fall detection pendant
Alert1’s average response times were 2 seconds slower than LifeStation and Aloe Care Health’s average, while it was 13 seconds faster than MobileHelp’s response times. This places Alert1 in the middle when it comes to response times. Overall, we found Alert1’s response times to be reliable and fast.
» Also Check Out: Best medical alert systems with fall detection for seniors
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3. Aloe Care Health - Best Caregiver Monitoring
What we like most
- Affordable systems for veterans on fixed incomes
- Seasonal discounts and promotions
- Smartwatch systems for active veterans
Aloe Care HealthOverview
Veteran Discount: One free month of service
Aloe Care Health offers high-tech systems with plenty of features for caregivers. We’re big fans of the company’s mobile app. Caregivers and loved ones can make drop-in calls to Aloe Care Health’s base unit, called the Care Hub, and check in with the user. This is a great feature for seniors who don’t have a cell phone. Family and caregivers can also view an activity and call log, monitor changes in temperature, and write check-in notes that will be sent to all caregivers. We also love Aloe Care Health’s sleek equipment, which blends right in and isn’t an eyesore like some of the systems we’ve tested.
» Also Check Out: Best affordable medical alert systems
The one downside is that Aloe Care’s monthly rates and equipment fees are quite high, particularly if you want Aloe Care Health’s at-home and on-the-go bundle (Essentials Plus). Fortunately, Aloe Care Health offers a free month of service to veterans, which can help you save on your plan. Plus, all Aloe Care Health packages are contract-free, so you can easily change or cancel your subscription if life throws a curveball your way or you’re unhappy with your service.
» Learn More: Review of Aloe Care Health
Pros About Aloe Care Health
- Fall detection included with on-the-go package
- One free month of service for veterans
- Voice-activated systems
- Affordable monthly premiums
- Enhanced app for caregivers
- U.S.-based monitoring center
- No long-term contracts
- 30-day risk-free trial
Cons About Aloe Care Health
- High equipment fees
- No spouse monitoring
- No fall detection on at-home system
Plans and Pricing
Aloe Care Health product Prices starting at Best for Connection type Essentials $39.99 per month + $199.99 equipment fee At-home users who want or need voice activation 4G cellular AT&T or Wi-Fi connection Mobile Companion 2 $44.99 per month + $149.99 equipment fee equipment fee On-the-go users 4G LTE cellular AT&T or Wi-Fi connection Essentials Plus $59.99 per month + $349.99 equipment fee Couples and on-the-go users 4G LTE cellular AT&T or Wi-Fi connection Caregiver Support
We tested out the Essentials Plus system, which includes a mobile unit and the at-home Smart Hub. The mobile unit features free fall detection. That’s a huge bonus, since this feature is treated as a paid add-on with providers like Alert1 and LifeStation. Keep that in mind when you consider Aloe Care’s higher monthly rates.
During our tests, we were happy to see that Aloe Care Health goes above and beyond for caregivers. The Aloe Care Health app is one of the most advanced we’ve ever seen, offering lots of up-to-date information about the user. If you have caregivers and family members who want to check in on your wellbeing, the mobile app is top of the line.
» Related Reading: Help for family caregivers of seniors
Aloe Care Health’s Smart Hub is equipped with motion sensors, which record the users activity and provide reports in the mobile app. If the user wasn’t up and moving at their normal time, we received an alert about inactivity. We could also see an activity log, the indoor temperature and air quality at the Smart Hub’s location, receive alerts if there was an emergency, and call the Smart Hub directly. Caregivers and loved ones can also send each other messages about how the user is doing. Even though MobileHelp and LifeStation offer decent caregiver support, we’ve found that Aloe Care Health is the top performer in this category.
Checking in on the Aloe Care Health app
Response Times
To initiate a test on the Smart Hub, we used Aloe Care’s unique voice activation feature. All we had to do was say “Emergency” three times. The system’s two-way speaker recognized the response and initiated a call. We heard a chime, followed by an automated message asking us to say “Emergency” again if this wasn’t a false alarm. A response agent answered shortly after and asked if we needed help. I’m a big fan of this voice-activated feature. If you fall and can’t press your help button, it’s just one more way to call for help.
We recorded average response times of 30 seconds for Mobile Companion 2 and 10 seconds for the Smart Hub. That means the overall average for Aloe Care’s response times was 20 seconds. The Smart Hub’s response times were twice as fast as the times we recorded with LifeStation. While response times were a bit slower when we tested the Mobile Companion 2, we were impressed with Aloe Care’s response times and high-tech features.
» Provider Overview: Aloe Care Health medical alert systems
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4. LifeStation - Best Smart Home Integration
What we like most
- Discounts for members of The American Legion
- Both simple and high-tech systems
- Price lock for life
LifeStationOverview
Veteran Discount: Discounted rates for American Legion and VFW members
LifeStation currently offers a discount on its packages to members of The American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), two U.S. veterans associations. LifeStation’s prices start at $34.95 per month before discounts with no equipment fees (though you may have to pay for shipping), making LifeStation a more affordable option than Aloe Care Health. LifeStation’s packages are a great choice for veterans who want a simple, straightforward, and cost-effective medical alert system.
However, some of LifeStation’s add-ons are more expensive than competitors. For instance, fall detection costs $14 per month, which is $4 more than the same feature from Alert1. To make things more affordable for veterans, LifeStation has discounted plans just for VFW and American Legion members, all of which include free shipping.
» Pricing Guide: LifeStation medical alert cost and pricing
LifeStation’s systems pair with Amazon Alexa, so your loved ones can easily locate you and receive updates through Alexa-enabled devices with just their voice. The company also partners with Uber Health, which gives subscribers a live operator who can call them an Uber whenever they need to get to a VA appointment. Whether you’re looking for an at-home cellular system, a GPS unit for mobile use, or a smartwatch system, LifeStation should meet your needs.
FYI: Want to learn more about using Amazon’s voice assistant? Check out our guide to Alexa for seniors.
Pros About LifeStation
- VFW and American Legion discounts
- Home automation options with Amazon Alexa
- No equipment fees
- Affordable product lineup
- Price lock for life
- No contracts
- 30-day free trial period
- US-based 24/7 monitoring center
Cons About LifeStation
- Limited system options
- Activation fees for some systems
- No mobile app for caregivers
- Slower response times
LifeStation Products and Pricing Details
LifeStation system Prices starting at Best for Connection type Sidekick Home $34.95 per month In-home users with a strong cellular coverage Cellular AT&T connection Sidekick $39.95 per month On-the-go users Cellular AT&T connection Sidekick Smart $46.95 per month On-the-go users who want a smartwatch system Cellular AT&T connection Luxury $46.95 per month Stylish on-the-go coverage Cellular AT&T connection Caregiver Support
I was disappointed LifeStation doesn’t offer a dedicated caregiver app like Aloe Care Health, but it still has features to help caregivers stay in the know. One of the best features is Find My Loved One. Simply text “Find” to a dedicated number or ask an Alexa-enabled smart home device about the user’s location and receive a response with the user’s location in seconds. We could also ask Alexa to give information about recent pendant presses and the status of the device. Alexa could even run a test on our system and ensure everything was working properly. It’s not quite as comprehensive as a mobile app (especially since we needed to use a smart home device to use the voice feature), but we found the feature easy to use and the location tracking was accurate. If you’re a big Alexa user, these features will come in handy.
» Learn More: Best GPS medical alert systems of 2024
It’s also easy to sign up for caregiver alerts when you purchase a plan. We just had to provide an email address during the sign-up process. After that, we could enroll in alerts to be sent to an email and/or phone in the event of an emergency. After we initiated a test emergency on the LifeStation Sidekick system, we got an email and a text within 30 seconds.
Response Times
After initiating multiple test emergencies, we recorded an average response time of 20 seconds. The response times for LifeStation’s mobile system performed well compared to industry standards (average response times range between 15 and 45 seconds) and providers like Alert1. Twenty seconds is pretty fast to get an emergency response agent on the line.
» Provider Review: LifeStation medical alert system review
Why Do Veterans Need a Medical Alert System?
With over 8.1 million veterans aged 65 or older in the U.S.2, those who served our country make up a large portion of the senior population. Due to the nature of combat, many older veterans suffer from chronic health conditions and mental health issues like PTSD at higher rates than the rest of the population. A medical alert system allows veterans to stay protected and receive help during an emergency, whether they spend most of their days at home or out in the community.
Medical alert systems offer great features like GPS technology and automatic fall detection that meet the specific needs of veterans. For example, should a veteran become disoriented and wander during a PTSD episode, a medical alert system with GPS technology allows help to be sent straight to the user, even if they don’t know where they are. Or, if a senior veteran experiences a fall due to a mobility issue or other chronic health condition, a system with automatic fall detection will send first responders even when the user can’t press the help button. Overall, there are a variety of options for veterans on the market, so you can find the best medical alert system for your needs.
Medical Alert System for Veterans Buying Guide
Choosing a medical alert system may feel overwhelming at first, but don’t worry! We’ve created this buying guide to medical alert systems for veterans so you’ll know all the facts before making a purchase. Below are the important questions to ask during the buying process.
Do I Need Automatic Fall Detection?
Automatic fall detection is one of the most standard add-on features that medical alert providers offer. With an automatic fall detection pendant, your system (you guessed it) automatically detects a fall even if you’re unable to press your help button. If there is a downward motion followed by a prolonged period of inactivity, the pendant will connect to the 24/7 operating center and call for help. If you’re a veteran with mobility issues or any other health conditions that make you more prone to falls, we’d highly recommend adding fall detection when it’s available. Fall detection is included in some packages with certain providers, while others charge $5 to $14 per month for the feature.
Cellular vs. Landline: Which Connection Type is Best?
There are typically two options for the type of connection that your medical alert system runs on. Many at-home systems run on a landline connection, while others use a cellular connection. All mobile GPS systems that can be used on the go use a cellular connection. If you live in an area with unreliable cellular coverage, you’ll want to choose a landline system to ensure you have a strong, consistent connection. On the other hand, if you want a system that can be used if you don’t have a landline, a cellular medical alert system is your best bet.
Providers partner with different cellular carriers. For instance, Medical Guardian uses AT&T service for their cellular systems, while Alert1 offers the choice between Verizon and AT&T. Ensure you have reliable coverage from a specific provider before signing up.
Aloe Care Health’s Smart Hub runs on a cellular connection
Is the Medical Alert Equipment Waterproof?
Senior falls in the bathroom are common, and it’s essential that you can use your medical alert system in high-risk areas. While shopping for a system, double-check that they offer waterproof pendants that can be worn while bathing and/or waterproof wall buttons that can be placed near your tub or shower. Also, note if the equipment is fully waterproof or just water-resistant. If it’s water-resistant, it can be worn in the shower but shouldn’t be fully submerged. On the other hand, fully waterproof equipment can be worn in the shower, bath, or even while you swim.
Submerging Bay Alarm Medical’s SOS Mobile system to put its water-resistance to the test
Does the Provider Offer Veteran Discounts?
There are a few popular providers who offer veteran discounts, and you’ll want to take advantage of those when signing up! Oftentimes, when purchasing a system online, veteran discounts aren’t clearly advertised. Make sure to call the provider or chat with the provider on the website before purchasing to receive your discount if one is available. Even if the provider doesn’t offer a military discount, they may still have other discounts that you’re eligible for. For instance, several companies offer AAA and AARP membership discounts.
Pro Tip: Looking for more ways to save? Check out our guide to discounts for seniors.
How Much Will a Medical Alert System Cost?
Medical alert systems prices vary, but they typically range from $20 to $30 per month for entry-level systems. Top-tier packages can often reach up to $50 or more, so there are options for different budgets. Many providers offer discounts when you pay for your system annually or quarterly, so that’s something to consider as well.
You’ll also need to add up any extra upfront costs and fees, such as shipping, activation, equipment, and setup fees. Think about the cost of any add-on equipment you want, including automatic fall detection, additional help pendants, or wall buttons. If the provider offers a veteran discount, some of these fees may be waived, so make sure to ask the provider about your options before you buy.
Will My Caregivers and Family Members be in the Loop?
Many medical alert providers offer text alerts and accompanying mobile apps that link up with their systems, so caregivers and family members can check in on you. The features of these apps will vary by provider. Some of the most popular features include location tracking, call history, and real-time alerts when the subscriber calls for help.
U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs. (2020). PTSD: National Center for PTSD.
U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs. (2020). Elderly Veterans.
