Linda earned her Master’s degree in Occupational Therapy from Tufts University and has assisted 10,000+ seniors throughout her 25-year career. She specializes in home health care and fall prevention for seniors and has nearly three decades of experience recommending medical alert systems. Her insights have helped inform the reviews and ratings below. Learn More about Linda
How we wrote this guide:
5 experts consulted
300+ hours of medical alert research
20 products considered
10 products selected
SeniorLiving.org is compensated when you click on the provider links listed on this page. This compensation does not impact our ratings or reviews. Read our Editorial Guidelines here to learn more about our review process and to learn more about how we are compensated.
After more than 300 hours of research and hands-on testing, our team narrowed down the list to our top picks. We evaluated each system for quality, reliability, speed of emergency responses, price, aesthetics, extra perks, and value to create a well-rounded ranking for each product. We placed test calls to each response center and spoke to customer service representatives at each company. You can visit our medical alert system methodology guide to learn more.
In addition to evaluating every medical alert system based on our research and testing, each company had to meet the standard requirements we find most important for all medical alert systems:
24/7 professional monitoring: In case of a fall or other emergency, fast response times and 24/7 monitoring all year round are essential for getting the help you need. While some companies don’t include professional monitoring, we think it’s an essential feature, so our list only includes providers that do.
GPS options: All of the companies on our list offer GPS mobile options. For seniors who spend a lot of time outside the home, it’s essential that the monitoring center can locate you and send help to your exact location during an emergency. GPS technology makes this possible.
Wearable help buttons or voice activation: During an emergency, you need to be able to call for help right away. All of the providers on our list offer wearable help buttons or voice-activated equipment so you can receive the help you need as quickly as possible.
The Best Medical Alert Systems Compared
Provider
ADT Health
Alexa Together
Aloe Care Health
Bay Alarm Medical
LifeFone
Lively
Medical Alert
Medical Guardian
MobileHelp
Prices starting at
$29.99 per month
$19.99 per month
$34.99 per month
$24.95 per month
$29.95 per month
$19.99 per month
$27.95 per month
$29.95 per month
$19.95 per month
Fall detection
$10 per month
With purchase of a third-party device
Included in some packages
$10 per month
$5-$10 per month
$10 per month
$10 per month
$10 per month
$10 per month
Activation fees
No
No
No
No
No
Up to $35
No
No
No
Connection type
Landline or Cellular
Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
Wi-Fi or cellular
Landline or cellular
Landline or cellular
Cellular
Landline or cellular
Landline or cellular
Landline or cellular
GPS equipment
Yes
No
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
In-home coverage range
Up to 600 feet
N/A
N/A
Up to 1,000 feet
Up to 1,300 feet
No in-home systems
Up to 600 feet
Up to 1,300 feet
Up to 1,400 feet
Waterproof help buttons
Yes
No
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Warranty
Lifetime
Up to 1 year
1 year
Lifetime
Lifetime
1 year
Lifetime
Limited
Limited lifetime
Money-back guarantee
30 days
15 days
No
30 days
30 days
30 days
30 days
None
30 days
Long-term contracts
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
Spouse monitoring
No
No
No
Yes
Yes
No
Yes
No
Yes
1. Bay Alarm Medical - Most Affordable
Bay Alarm Medical SOS Smartwatch
Why They Made the Cut
Bay Alarm Medical’s systems start at just $24.95 per month with no equipment fees, and even their top-tier packages remain affordable, which is why Bay Alarm once again placed on our list. They offer inexpensive systems for use at home or out on the town. Not only are the prices affordable compared to the competition, but the systems also come packed with top-of-the-line features and value, so you really get the most bang for your buck. Plus, if you want more than one system, you can bundle two for even bigger savings. While there are a few providers that offer in-home systems for a few dollars less per month, Bay Alarm Medical’s inexpensive on-the-go prices and bundles make it the most affordable overall.
Current Deal:
Current Deal: Bay Alarm Medical is offering a 50 percent discount on mobile devices!
Bay Alarm Medical’s SOS Mobile system is sleek, small, and lightweight, so it’s perfect for active users who don’t want to carry around a bulky system. It also comes with a Caregiver Tracking feature, which allows caregivers to pinpoint the location of the wearer, view their location history, and receive low battery notifications. The SOS Smartwatch, the company’s latest system, allows you to track your steps, set daily goals, and connect to their 24/7 monitoring center. It’s excellent for active seniors who want a discreet system that functions like a smartwatch. The in-home unit comes with all the standard features: a base unit, help pendant, and optional fall detection. Plus, you can add wall help buttons to any package.
Answer a few questions on Bay Alarm Medical's website to get a quote on the best product and plan for you. This process is slower than calling a representative.
This company is always one step ahead when it comes to high-tech, customizable features for medical alert systems. With everything from discreet on-the-go systems to the MyGuardian companion mobile app and desktop portal, Medical Guardian adds flair and versatility that many competitors simply don’t offer. Whether you’re looking for a simple medical alert system or one with all the bells and whistles, Medial Guardian offers five different packages to meet your needs. They have all of the standard features and add-ons, including fall detection, a base station with two-way audio, water-resistant help buttons, and systems built for at-home and on-the-go use. Medical Guardian also offers a lot of deals on its packages throughout the year, so be sure to keep an eye on their website!
Customer portal for activity tracing and connecting with loved ones
Cons
No free trial
Pricier premium systems
Cellular systems require AT&T or Verizon*
The Product Lineup and Pricing
Product name
Prices starting at
Connection type
Designed for
Fall detection
Classic Guardian
$29.95 per month
Landline
At-home use
$10 per month
Home 2.0
$37.95 per month (one-time equipment fee of $149.95)
LTE, Wi-Fi
At-home use
$10 per month
Mini Guardian
$44.95 per month (one-time equipment fee of $149.95)
Wi-Fi, GPS, 4G
Discrete on-the-go use (all-in-one system)
$10 per month
Mobile 2.0
$44.95 per month
Wi-Fi, GPS, 4G
On-the-go use
$10 per month
MGMove
$39.95 per month (one-time equipment fee of $199.95)
GPS, 4G
On-the-go smartwatch
Not available
Is Medical Guardian Right for Me?
Medical Guardian’s diverse product lineup is a great fit for all sorts of older adults. We’d highly recommend Medical Guardian for the following people:
Active users
Users who want the latest high-tech features
Those with a little more wiggle room in their budget
Answer a few questions on Medical Guardian's website to get a quote on the best product and plan for you. This process is slower than calling a representative.
MobileHelp made our list thanks to their Duo alert systems designed specifically for two users. They offer a versatile lineup of medical alert systems designed for both at-home and on-the-go use, whether you need protection for just yourself or for a partner as well. While many companies will require you to pay an extra fee or purchase two separate systems to add a spouse, MobileHelp offers multiple two-in-one systems. That way, you and a spouse or roommate will be covered at one affordable monthly rate. Whether you both spend your days out and about or you’re homebodies, MobileHelp’s Duo plans will keep you protected at all times. MobileHelp also offers a high-tech touchscreen system, MobileHelp Touch. This system is enabled with medication reminders, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth capabilities, and other health and safety features for those who need a little more coverage.
Current Deal:
Current Deal: MobileHelp is currently offering one month of free service, free expedited shipping, 50 percent off fall detection, and no equipment fees. Talk about a deal!
Visit our MobileHelp pricing guide to learn more about this provider’s monthly rates and packages.
Touchscreen system with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth technology
Two help buttons with most systems
Cons
Smartwach system discontinued
Cellular systems rely on AT&T service
Monitoring center is not company-owned
Automatic fall detection isn’t built into most mobile devices; extra device required
The Product Lineup and Pricing
Product name
Prices starting at
Connection type
Designed for
Fall detection
MobileHelp Classic
$19.95 per month
Cellular (AT&T)
At-home use
$11 per month
MobileHelp Wired Home
$26.95 per month
Landline
At-home use
Not available
MobileHelp Micro
$39.95 per month
Cellular (AT&T)
Discreet on-the-go use for one user
$11 per month
MobileHelp Duo
$46.95 per month
Cellular (AT&T)
At-home & on-the-go for one or two users
$11 per month per person
Mobile Duo
$49.95 per month
Cellular (AT&T)
On-the-go for two users
$11 per month per person
MobileHelp Solo
$41.95 per month
Cellular (AT&T)
On-the-go for one user
$11 per month
MobileHelp Touch Classic
$54.95 per month
Cellular (AT&T)
At-home & on-the-go use with touchscreen and advanced health and safety features for one user
$11 per month
MobileHelp Touch Duo
$54.95 per month
Cellular (AT&T)
At-home & on-the-go use with touchscreen and advanced health and safety features
$11 per month per person
Is MobileHelp Right for Me?
Whether you’re looking for a system for yourself alone or you and a partner, there are several users that would benefit from a MobileHelp system:
Those who need spouse monitoring or a two-in-one system
Users looking for a high-tech touchscreen system
Older adults who need an affordable at-home system
People with strong AT&T coverage
If MobileHelp sounds like a good fit for you, check out this year’s MobileHelp review for more details.
4. ADT Health - Best Monitoring Center
The Medical Alert Plus ADT Health System
Why They Made the Cut
ADT is best known for its 150-year history of providing reliable, innovative home security. The company has applied that same standard of excellence to its medical alert systems to protect seniors and their families. Though ADT’s systems are comparable to major competitors, we were most impressed with the professionalism of their monitoring centers which is why they made our list. ADT’s Emergency Response Monitoring Center is U.S.-based, company-owned, company-operated, and monitored 24/7 by senior-sensitivity-trained professionals. In the middle of an emergency, older adults can rest assured they will speak with a top-trained ADT professional.
ADT has a variety of systems, including on-the-go and in-home models and add-on features, such as fall detection and home temperature monitoring. If you already have an ADT home security system, make sure you mention it to your customer representative, as you may be eligible for a discount on an ADT medical alert system.
Discounts when bundled with ADT home security system
Alerts caregivers during an emergency
Cons
Limited system options
Must live in AT&T coverage area to use some systems
Product Lineup and Pricing
Product name
Prices starting at
Connection type
Designed for
Fall detection
Medical Alert Basic
$29.99 per month
Landline
In-home use
Not available
Medical Alert Plus
$37.99 per month
Cellular (AT&T)
In-home use
$11 per month
On-the-Go
$39.99 per month
Cellular
On-the-go use
$11 per month
Is ADT Health Right for Me?
We would recommend ADT’s medical alert systems for the following seniors:
Those who already have an ADT home security system
Families looking for a medical alert system supported by a superior monitoring center
Users who prefer a provider with a long-standing reputation
Older adults who want a “no-frills” medical alert system
Current Deal:
Current Deal: Buy one wall mount button, and get a second one free. Plus, score free two-day shipping and activation.
To learn more about ADT’s offerings, visit our latest ADT Health review.
5. Alexa Together - Best for Amazon Alexa users
Speaking with the Alexa Together Urgent Response Center
Why They Made the Cut
You’ve probably heard of Alexa, Amazon’s voice assistant, and you might even have an Alexa-enabled speaker in your home. If you have an Alexa product or are interested in purchasing one, Alexa Together is our top pick for your medical alert needs. Alexa Together offers proven, high-tech protection. Alexa, virtual assistant technology, has been around since 2014. In late 2021, Amazon introduced Alexa Together, a subscription service that protects older adults and enhances communication between caregivers and their older loved ones. Alexa Together can be accessed from any Alexa-enabled device for $19.99 (plus tax) per month. Subscribers can use all of Alexa’s standard voice-activated features, plus several medical alert features. This system is excellent for those with mobility or vision issues, as you can control all features with the sound of your voice.
It is one of the few in-home systems that runs on Bluetooth technology, enabling connection with other smart devices, sensors, and appliances in the home. Using the free Alexa App, caregivers can check the user’s activity, make drop-in calls, monitor connected smart devices, and create customized alerts. Caregivers or subscribers can also set reminders for appointments, medications, and more. Importantly, the system provides 24/7 emergency response via Amazon’s Urgent Response Center. Users simply ask Alexa to call for help during an emergency. Alexa Together is also compatible with some third-party fall detection devices for enhanced protection.
Amazon is offering a 30-day risk-free trial for Alexa Together, so you can try it out before committing.
Ease of use
Equipment
Service & Response
Features & Tech
Pricing
Above Average
Excellent
Excellent
Above Average
Excellent
Please scroll to the right for more info.
Pros
Compatible with Alexa-enabled speakers
Customized activity alerts for caregivers
Medication and appointment reminders
Extended protection available through additional Alexa devices
Low monthly monitoring fee
A trusted name
30-day free trial (limited time offer)
Cons
No wearable buttons for comprehensive protection
Fall detection requires the purchase of an additional third-party device
Short range for roaming from smart speaker
The Product Lineup and Pricing
As mentioned, you can use any Alexa-enabled device with Alexa Together. Below are a few of our favorite Amazon Echo devices that pair well with Alexa Together.
Product name
Prices starting at
Connection type
Designed for
Fall detection
Echo (3rd Gen)
$19.99 per month;
$39.99 for device
Wi-Fi/Bluetooth
The central hub of your home or space where you spend the most time
With additional equipment
Echo Dot (5th Gen)
$19.99 per month;
$49.99 for device
Wi-Fi/Bluetooth
Compact spaces
With additional equipment
Echo Show 8 (2nd Gen)
$19.99 per month;
$129.99 for device
Wi-Fi/Bluetooth
Video chat and entertainment
With additional equipment
Is Alexa Together Right for Me?
We recommend this high-function subscription coupled with an Alexa-enabled device for the following users:
Those who are comfortable using high-tech equipment
Older adults who have vision impairment or mobility challenges
Caregivers who want to monitor their loved one remotely
Users who already own an Alexa smart speaker
Consumers who want low monthly fees and don’t mind upfront equipment charges
Medical Alert offers one of the industry’s best mobile apps. The ability to track a medical alert subscriber’s whereabouts, emergency calls, and device status adds an extra level of assurance for family members and caregivers. Medical Alert’s mobile app lets the user’s loved ones do just that. With the added peace of mind, you won’t need to check in on your aging loved ones multiple times a day, and they won’t feel like you’re hovering. All you have to do is open the mobile app straight from your smartphone to view their call history and device status, create testing schedules, build an emergency contact list, and check their real-time location. Medical Alert offers other essential features for their at-home and on-the-go systems, including optional fall detection, GPS location tracking, and waterproof help buttons. Plus, setup for every system is as simple as it gets, requiring just one or two plugins. With all of these great features, Medical Alert was an easy top pick. Best of all, Medical Alert’s pricing is hard to beat!
Current Deal:
Current Deal: Medical Alert is offering free shipping, a free lockbox, and a protection plan for as low as $1 per month for new customers.
* All plans require a one-time $79 programming fee. Discounts are available for semi-annual and annual payment plans.
Is Medical Alert Right for Me?
With easy-to-use systems, a top-of-the-line mobile app, and affordable monthly rates, we’d recommend Medical Alert for the following seniors:
Families or caregivers looking for a mobile app
Seniors who want custom response plans
Those who don’t want extra bells and whistles
Users that want real-time alerts
If Medical Alert sounds like the right choice for you, see our full Medical Alert review.
7. LifeFone - Best In-Home Coverage
LifeFone At Home Landline or Cellular Equipment
Why They Made the Cut
LifeFone is a top contender, as they offer one of the largest in-home coverage ranges in the industry. It’s essential for older adults to be able to call for help during an emergency, no matter where they are in the house. At 1,400 feet, LifeFone’s range from its base station to wearable help buttons is two or even three times the in-home coverage of many of its competitors. Plus, LifeFone’s signal range is the same for both its cellular and landline systems. Oftentimes, companies offer a larger coverage range for landline systems when compared to their cellular options, which is frustrating for those without a landline. You can enhance your systems even further with automatic fall detection starting at $5 per month, which is very affordable for the industry. LifeFone’s systems have several other great perks that put them on our list, including a caregiver mobile app, features for those with hearing or visual impairments, and up to 16-day battery life for the At-Home & On-the-Go, VIPx system. In addition, they recently added a smartwatch medical alert system to their lineup.
Current Deal:
Current Deal: You can save $60 on the Preferred or Ultimate package as an AARP member!
LifeFone’s affordable and versatile at-home and on-the-go systems will be a great match for many different types of users in their golden years:
Users looking for large in-home signal range
Those who want affordable fall detection
Hearing or visually-impaired seniors
Those who want a mobile system with an ultra-long battery life
For more information, take a look at our full LifeFone review.
8. Lively - Best Mobile Phone Options
Our editor’s grandma trying out her Lively Mobile Plus
Why They Made the Cut
Lively’s unique senior-friendly phones with built-in medical alert technology put them on our list. One of the main complaints we hear from seniors time and time again is that they don’t want to wear or carry a medical alert device everywhere they go. Lively is one of the only providers that offers cell phones equipped with medical alert features to solve this problem; older adults can stay protected and connected on the go with one simple device designed with their needs in mind.
Did You Know?
Did You Know? You can buy Lively products at brick-and-mortar stores including Walgreens and Best Buy.
Subscribers can choose from three phone plans with various health and safety features, while there are two packages to choose from for the company’s medical alert system. Lively’s monthly cost for these plans depends on the level of medical alert features you want, so it’s easy to find something to fit your budget. These features range from automatic fall detection and 24/7 monitoring to medication reminders and concierge services like a personal operator to call Lyft rides. Or, if you just want a senior-friendly cell phone, you can pay for the phone and a basic talk, text, and/or data plan without paying for any added medical alert features. Lively’s cell phones run on Verizon’s network, so if you have solid coverage in your area, you’ll be set.
Lively also has a standalone medical alert system for those who don’t want a phone and just want to stay protected. Additionally, they offer their health and safety services for popular devices you might already own like iPhones, Apple Watches, and Alexa-enabled devices.
Aloe Care Health’s systems are ideal for adult children and caregivers who worry about their loved ones living on their own. This medical alert system leverages modern technology to provide ultimate at-home support for independent seniors and their caregivers. Family and friends in the designated Care Circle can see real-time updates on their loved one via the Aloe Care Health app. Viewers can see recent movements in the home, the temperature, air quality, and check-in notes. They can even call their loved one directly through the base station called the Smart Hub.
Did You Know?
Did You Know? Aloe Care Health offers a free month of service to U.S. military members and essential workers.
We love Aloe Care Health’s voice-activated emergency response. If seniors need help and cannot press their care button, they can repeatedly say, “emergency.” Aloe Care Health’s Smart Hub will connect them to an emergency response professional and alert caregivers of the event. The Mobile Companion is a great option for seniors who want fall detection. For even more protection, the Total Care system includes a Smart Fall Sensor and two motion sensors.
Many seniors equate medical alert systems with one brand — Life Alert. Along with this brand recognition, comes longevity. Life Alert has been selling medical alert systems for 35 years. In short, Life Alert’s standing in the market helps some older adults feel more secure. We do recommend digging a little deeper to determine if Life Alert’s systems are right for you.
Life Alert offers three products; two can be purchased only in conjunction with its at-home base unit. Additionally, the base unit cannot be purchased on its own in most cases. This can get pricey with monthly fees costing between $49.95 and $89.95 per month. To use Life Alert, you will need to sign a three-year contract and pay up to $197 for delivery and installation, something we don’t see with other providers. However, you will not be charged a fee for their equipment, and we were impressed with a few features of the equipment, especially the mobile device’s 10-year battery life. While most on-the-go systems require daily charging, seniors using Life Alert will never need to stop to charge their device!
Ease of use
Equipment
Service & Response
Features & Tech
Pricing
Average
Average
Average
Average
Average
Please scroll to the right for more info.
Pros
800-foot range between the master unit and help button
10-year battery life on the mobile device and wall button
Two-way speaker on wall button
Household name recognition
Waterproof in-home pendant, mobile device, and wall button
Cons
No fall detection available
Above-average monthly fees
Up to $197 installation fee
Three-year contract required
The Product Lineup and Pricing
Product name
Prices starting at
Connection type
Designed for
Fall detection
Master Unit
$49.95 per month*
Cellular or landline
At-home use
N/A
Mobile + GPS
$20 per month**
Cellular
On-the-go use
N/A
Help Button
$20 per month**
Cellular
Use in shower/bathroom
N/A
*You are required to bundle the master unit with add-ons in most cases.
**Add-ons cannot be purchased on their own; they must be bundled with the master unit.
Is Life Alert Right for Me?
Older adults who want simplified equipment and plan options
Those who prefer a provider with name recognition and don’t mind paying extra for it
Users who don’t want to worry about charging their on-the-go device
Seniors who do not have a chronic health condition and are not at a high risk for falls
Take a look at our Life Alert review to get more details on these systems.
What Is a Medical Alert System?
So what exactly is a medical alert system and why do you need one? Personal medical alert systems are designed to keep seniors safe and prevent life-threatening injuries from falls and other health emergencies that become more common as we age. Systems typically come with a base unit equipped with a help button and two-way speaker, and a wearable help pendant or bracelet.
During an emergency, all the user has to do is press the help button on the base station or pendant and they’ll be connected to the company’s 24/7 monitoring center. A live operator will help the user get the assistance they need based on the situation, whether it’s a family member, neighbor, or first responders. If the operator is unable to get a response from the user, they’ll send help straight away. Some systems are designed for in-home or on-the-go, while others are a hybrid of the two, so users can stay protected whether they’re at home or traveling.
According to research, 1 in 4 seniors experience a fall every single year, which is also the leading cause of life-threatening injuries for older adults1. Plus, over 800,000 hospitalizations occur each year because of falls2. Because falls are a very prevalent and serious danger to older adults, it’s important to be prepared for falls even before they happen. That’s where medical alert systems come in. They can literally save the user’s life by sending help immediately after a fall. These systems give both seniors and their loved ones an added layer of peace of mind and protection, especially for older adults who live alone or away from family. Medical alert systems are just one way to avoid fall-related injuries. Check out our guide to seven simple ways to prevent senior falls to learn more.
What to Look for in a Medical Alert System
There are several types of medical alert systems tailored to meet the needs of different users. To decide which system is best for you and feel confident in your choice, here are the main criteria to consider.
Landline vs. Cellular Systems
In-home alert systems will either run on a landline or cellular connection. If you live in an area with spotty cellular coverage, a landline system will be ideal for a steady and reliable connection. However, if you don’t have a landline or would rather not have to connect your system to a phone jack, a cellular system is a great option. For those looking for an on-the-go system, essentially all mobile systems run on a cellular connection, so again, you’ll want to ensure that the provider you choose uses a cellular network that’s reliable in your area.
Pendants, Smartwatches, or Portable Base Stations?
If you want a system that can be used on the go, you’ll need to decide how you want to carry or wear the system, as there are a few different options on the market. The first option is an all-in-one wearable system that can be put on like a necklace. These systems are great for those who don’t want to deal with keeping track of multiple pieces of equipment. However, they’re typically a bit bulkier than other options since everything is built into one piece of equipment.
The second option is a two-piece system that comes with a help button that can be worn as either a necklace or bracelet and a small, portable base station. For these systems, the base station is typically small enough to be thrown in a purse or put in a pocket, and the pendant is small and lightweight. These two-piece systems are good for those who want a more discrete pendant. Just know that you’ll have to remember both pieces of equipment whenever you leave the house, and you’ll need to keep the portable base station close by.
The last option is an all-in-one smartwatch system. The best medical alert watches function similarly to Apple Watches, as they track user activity and allow you to send and receive messages, but they also have medical alert features like a help button and 24/7 monitoring. Medical Guardian, Bay Alarm Medical, and WellBe are currently the three major medical alert providers that offer a smartwatch option, so it’s pretty unique.
Pro Tip:
Pro Tip: If you’re looking for this high-tech option, you’ll want to consider Medical Guardian’s MGMove smartwatch, Bay Alarm Medical’s SOS Smartwatch, or WellBe’s smartwatch.
What is Automatic Fall Detection?
Medical alert providers typically offer automatic fall detection pendants in certain packages or as an add-on feature. With fall detection, the user won’t even have to press a button after a fall. The pendant will detect the downward motion followed by inactivity and automatically connect to the monitoring center. This is a useful feature for any users, but especially for those more prone to falls due to health conditions or mobility issues. When choosing a system, look into the company’s fall detection options. Consider if the person you’re buying for will need, or feel more secure with, fall detection and determine whether or not this add on will fit in your budget. To help your search, we’ve compiled a list of the best medical alert systems with fall detection.
How to Share Data with Caregivers and Family Members
Many providers, like Aloe Care Health and Bay Alarm Medical, offer companion mobile apps that pair up with your medical alert system. If you want to be able to keep track of your aging family member and receive real-time alerts to any incidents, you’ll want to make sure you choose a company and package that comes with mobile app access. Each app offers different features, but some of the most standard include GPS tracking, user call history, and real-time alerts for emergency calls.
Typical Costs of a System
You’ll need to make sure that the medical alert system you choose fits in your budget. The cost of a medical alert system varies greatly by the provider and type of system you choose. You’ll find that the most affordable systems on the market start at around $20 per month. For mobile GPS systems or more advanced in-home systems with activity monitoring or other unique features, prices typically jump to about $30 to $50 per month.
In addition to monthly monitoring fees, you’ll also need to consider the cost of any add-on equipment or features. Fall detection, the most common add-on feature, typically costs around $10 per month, while some providers offer it for a few bucks more or less. Other add ons like protection plans, jewelry accessories, and additional equipment can cost anywhere from $5 to $15 per month, or you may just pay a one-time fee for extra equipment. Once you’ve chosen your ideal system, be sure to do the math and add up all of your monthly costs along with any upfront fees so you know what to expect on your bill.
What Type of Maintenance is Required?
Medical alert systems are built to be durable and last for years to come, so typically there isn’t a lot of required maintenance. Most help pendants have batteries that last for a few years, and providers will usually replace them when they die at no extra cost. If your system is malfunctioning and it’s not due to user error or intentional damage, most providers will fix or replace the equipment for free.
When choosing a system, be sure to check the company’s warranty and what exactly it covers. Some providers offer a lifetime warranty that will cover all maintenance, while others are more limited or short term. Many companies that don’t have lifetime warranties offer monthly protection plans instead for around $5 per month that will cover expensive equipment replacements.
A medical alert system usually comes with one or more devices that helps the user stay safe. The device comes in the form of a bracelet, necklace or pendant. It is connected to a speaker that allows the user to come into contact with a trained operator with the simple press of a button. The trained operator can determine whether to send emergency help.
It’s not uncommon for people to believe that seniors are the only ones to benefit from wearing a medical alert system. Truth is, though, anyone of any age can benefit from a medical alert system, particularly those who want peace of mind in knowing they will receive around-the-clock protection during medical emergencies, fires, and break-ins.
The most important aspect to look for in a medical alert system is reliability. No matter how well the medical alert system performs, unless it’s connected to a live agent who can instantly take your call, then the system will prove of little value. Beyond reliability, it’s important to look for a system that is easy to use and install. Always get a system that offers a backup battery, as well. With a backup battery, you obtain peace of mind in knowing the system will still operate during a power outage.
A medical alert system is worn by the user. Many systems also come with a base in which the medical alert device sends a signal to. All the user has to do to call for help is press the HELP button on the base or device being worn. Once the signal from the device reaches the base, it is immediately forwarded to the system’s monitoring center, which includes trained emergency response operators. The operator will answer your call and using two-way voice communication, you will hear the operator ask you questions. If you can speak, you tell the operator what type of help you need. If you can’t speak, you can simply stay on the line with the operator in silence. The operator will assess the situation and determine what type of emergency help to send.
You should shop for a medical alert system that comes with a 100% satisfaction guarantee and a hassle-free return policy. Also, check the provider’s ranking with the Better Business Bureau.
Medical alert systems are available in many forms. Some connect to a home’s landline, some are wireless, and some are considered mobile. A landline medical alert system comes with a phone cord that connects from the base device to the phone jack on your wall. Wireless medical alert systems connect to a wall outlet and works off of a cellular network, meaning you don’t have to connect it to a landline. Mobile medical alert systems come with a mobile device that easily fits in your hand or is worn around the neck or wrist. You get a carrying pouch as well and a charging cradle along with a power cord. No matter the type of system that you choose, fall detection is usually optional. Please keep in mind that wireless systems usually work all throughout the United States. Mobile systems work all throughout the 50 states, however, they only work outside of the country when you are in an area that has cellular network coverage.
No, not all medical alert systems require a landline. While some systems do run on a landline, there are other systems that use a cellular connection or Wi-Fi.
Yes, they do! And that’s another great reason you need one. You never know what situation you may find yourself in. Sometimes, GPS tracking may be the difference between saving your life and losing it. Anything from memory loss to a seizure can cause you to wander off to places where you aren’t safe, but with a medical alert system with GPS tracking, both you and your caregivers can keep track of your location. If you go missing, your caregivers will know to call your monitoring service provider to get your GPS coordinates.
Looking for Help Choosing a Medical Alert System?
We can help! Answer 5 simple questions and we'll make a recommendation for you or your loved one.
Linda’s Acclaimed Career in Senior Care Linda Schlenker is a comforting voice for seniors and caregivers across the U.S. For nearly three decades, Linda has helped seniors remain safe in their own homes, while helping them to regain priceless independence and peace… Learn More About Linda Schlenker
Written By
Taylor Shuman
Senior Tech Expert & Editor
For over five years, Taylor has been writing, editing, and researching products and services covering topics such as senior care and technology, internet and the digital divide, TV and entertainment, and education. Her work has been cited by publications such as Forbes,… Learn More About Taylor Shuman
Citations
National Council on Aging. (2022). Get the Facts on Falls Prevention.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021, Aug). Facts About Falls.
