Best Medical Alert Systems for Active Seniors
Our medical alert experts researched and tested the best medical alert systems to select our top picks for active seniors in 2024.
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- Wide array of customizable systems
- No long-term contracts required
- At-home and on-the-go systems
- Prices starting at $24.95 per month
- No equipment fees
- Small, lightweight design
- Combines mobile phone with a medical alert system
- Jitterbug phones are compatible with hearing aid
- Simple Urgent Response button for immediate connection with an operator
- Easy-to-use systems
- Lifetime warranty
- Seasonal promotions
Contents
Most older adults aren’t slowing down. In fact, about 25 percent of those age 65 and older are still in the workforce.1 As for those who have retired, you’ll usually find them volunteering, traveling, or spending time with family and friends.
With all that activity, older adults need a medical alert system that supports their independence and keeps up with their busy schedules. So, we’ve pared it down to the top five medical alert systems for active seniors.
Our Top 5 Medical Alert Systems for Active Seniors
How We Chose the Best Medical Alert Systems for Active Seniors
There are many medical alert systems out there, but not all cater to an active lifestyle. We kept a few aspects in mind as we searched for the top five systems on our list. To earn a spot, providers had to offer a system that is:
- Affordable: We know budgets come in all shapes and sizes. What you find affordable may be pricey for another person. So, we made sure to include a wide range of price points on our list so you can find what best fits your budget.
- Reliable: When you’re on the go, you don’t want to worry about your system malfunctioning, running out of battery, or having spotty coverage. These systems are built with equipment and service you can trust.
- Mobile: The most important thing about a medical alert system for active seniors is that it is mobile. Tossing your system in a purse, placing it around your neck, or strapping it to your wrist before heading out the door is ideal when you’re busy and active. Our top five picks won’t hold you back!
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1. Medical Guardian - Best Overall System for Active Seniors
What we like most
- Wide array of customizable systems
- No long-term contracts required
- At-home and on-the-go systems
Medical GuardianOverview
Medical Guardian has the largest selection of medical alert systems for active seniors, with three on-the-go systems to choose from. You can wear the MGMini Lite or Mini Guardian around your wrist or neck respectively. The smartwatch system, MGMove, is also worn around the wrist and functions as a smartwatch. It can update you on the weather, track your steps, and facilitate communication with your Care Circle.
Medical Guardian is No. 1 on our list because of their innovative technology and excellent customer service. We also like that they offer several mobile options, so seniors can pick out the right on-the-go system for their active lifestyle.
Pros About Medical Guardian
- No activation fees
- Three mobile systems to choose from
- No long-term contracts
- Monthly, quarterly, and annual payment options
- Advanced technology
- Smartwatch option
- U.S.-based monitoring
Cons About Medical Guardian
- No trial period
- High equipment fees
Medical Guardian’s Home Guardian system
The Bottom Line
Medical Guardian’s prices are a little higher than those of some other providers on our list, but you can opt for an annual payment plan to save a few bucks every month. During our in-depth review of Medical Guardian, we experienced the company’s great customer service and quality equipment for ourselves.
Call Medical Guardian
Call to speak with a Medical Guardian representative. Get your questions answered, products recommended, and ask about current deals and promotions.
Visit MedicalGuardian.com
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.
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2. Bay Alarm Medical - Best Smartwatch System for Active Seniors
What we like most
- Prices starting at $24.95 per month
- No equipment fees
- Small, lightweight design
Bay Alarm MedicalOverview
When we tested Bay Alarm Medical’s systems, we found them reliable and easy to use. Their SOS Smartwatch is a standout. Unlike some smartwatch systems, the SOS Smartwatch doesn’t need to be connected to a smartphone or mobile app. This is a definite perk for seniors who prefer not to hassle with smartphones or just want to keep it simple. With the SOS Smartwatch, you can track your steps and set daily goals, making it perfect for those who want to stay on top of their daily activity.
If a smartwatch system isn’t your cup of tea, Bay Alarm Medical also has the modern, lightweight SOS Mobile. You can wear it around your neck or clip it to your waist. The monitoring fee is $34.95 per month, which is similar to competitors.
Pros About Bay Alarm Medical
- Smartwatch option
- Newly updated traditional mobile device
- 30-day risk-free trial
- No long-term contracts
- Low prices
- Language support
- U.S.-based manufacturing and monitoring
Cons About Bay Alarm Medical
- Small product catalog
- Equipment fees on mobile systems
Testing out Bay Alarm Medical’s SOS Smartwatch
The Bottom Line
Bay Alarm Medical’s prices are some of the lowest in the industry. They earned a spot on our list for their SOS Smartwatch, which is an affordable option for active older adults. Bay Alarm Medical only offers free shipping when you purchase a premium package, but a few times per year, they run deals that offer free shipping on any online order. So, if you’re looking to buy, keep an eye out for this promo.
Call Bay Alarm Medical
Call to speak with a Bay Alarm Medical representative. Get your questions answered, products recommended, and ask about current deals and promotions.
Visit BayAlarmMedical.com
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.
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3. Lively - Most Affordable System for Active Seniors
What we like most
- Combines mobile phone with a medical alert system
- Jitterbug phones are compatible with hearing aid
- Simple Urgent Response button for immediate connection with an operator
LivelyOverview
Lively is best known for creating the original cell phone for seniors, the Jitterbug Flip2. Lively has evolved over the years, but they always stick to their mission of providing older adults with simple technology to keep them safe and connected. Even better, the monthly monitoring cost of Lively’s systems is very reasonable. Lively’s Basic medical alert package is just $24.99 per month, while phone plans start at $19.99 per month. All of their medical alert systems offer on-the-go protection, so it was a no-brainer to include them on our list of best medical alert systems for active seniors.
Pros About Lively
- Customizable packages
- Affordable monthly monitoring
- No long-term contracts
- Senior-friendly devices
- Optional fall detection
- AARP member discount
Cons About Lively
- Equipment and activation fees
- Limited system options
Charging the Lively Mobile2
The Bottom Line
Lively’s prices are already low, but when we tested Lively’s products, we learned that you can get the best deal by speaking with a customer service representative over the phone. So, it’s worth a try! Even if you don’t take advantage of a promotion, the mobile protection a Lively system provides is worth the money.
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4. Lifeline - Best All-in-One System for Active Seniors
LifelineOverview
With nearly five decades of experience providing protection to seniors, Lifeline has made a name for itself as a trusted medical alert provider. The company offers only one mobile medical alert system called On the Go, but it is impressive enough to be included on our list. One the Go is a lightweight pendant with advanced GPS technology, fall detection, and two-way voice communication. The product will cost you nearly $50 per month, a one-time $50 activation fee, along with a $49.95 upfront programming fee, making it one of the pricier systems on our list.
Pros About Lifeline
- Single-piece mobile protection
- 30-day risk-free trial
- Fall detection capabilities
- No long-term contract
- Advanced location monitoring
Cons About Lifeline
- Activation and programming fee
- Only one mobile system available
Editor Jeff Hoyt testing GoSafe 2
The Bottom Line
Lifeline’s prices aren’t the lowest you’ll find. You’ll need to be OK with paying a little more for a reliable system from a company with an established reputation. If you’re looking for a lightweight mobile system, On the Go is hard to beat. You can learn more about the On the Go system in our Lifeline review.
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5. LifeFone - Best Bundled System for Active Seniors
What we like most
- Easy-to-use systems
- Lifetime warranty
- Seasonal promotions
LifeFoneOverview
For active seniors looking for protection in their homes and on the go, LifeFone has you covered. Their At-Home & On-the-Go, VIPx is ideal for seniors who want to wear a simple help button, whether you’re at home or on the go. Plus, this system’s battery life lasts up to 16 days, making it ideal for those who have a hard time remembering to charge their devices. The price for this system is $45.95 per month, and you can add fall detection for $5 per month. During our test of LifeFone’s products, we found that you can choose from AT&T or Verizon coverage. Just make sure to choose the provider with the strongest coverage in your area!
Other LifeFone systems excellent for active older adults include VIP Active®, which features advanced location detection for the monitoring center and caregivers. The Safe Watch Active® is a smartwatch designed for active users. It includes optional fall detection, a heart monitor, and a step tracker.
Pros About LifeFone
- No equipment or activation fees
- Lifetime warranty
- Monthly, quarterly, and annual payment options
- Price-lock guarantee
- No long-term contracts
- Free spouse monitoring
- 30-day risk-free trial
- New Smartwatch Active now available
Cons About LifeFone
- Weaker reception outside AT&T service area
- Limited system options
Lifefone’s VIPx system
The Bottom Line
A bundled system is great for active seniors who want dual protection. LifeFone’s At-Home & On-the-Go bundle gives older adults the “total package.” The cost of LifeFone’s monthly service is pretty reasonable, but if you want an even better deal, opt for the annual plan. It can save you over $70 a year — plus, you’ll get free shipping!
Best Types of Medical Alert Systems for Active Seniors
Active seniors will benefit from the freedom that mobile medical alert systems offer. These systems are not all created equal, though. There are several types, catering to different budgets and activity levels.
Two-Piece Systems
Two-piece systems come in, you guessed it, two pieces! The portable base station and wearable help button should be kept with you at all times. The base station can be clipped to your waist, thrown in a purse, or hidden in a pocket. The wearable help button is worn around the neck or wrist.
When the help button is pressed, the base station calls the emergency monitoring center. This only works if you’re within range. For example, you can’t go on a hike wearing your help button and leave the base station in your car; you’ll need to bring both pieces with you. Seniors who don’t want to wear a bulky system and would like a lightweight help button may prefer a two-piece system.
Quick Tip: Still not sure which system is right for you? You can find and compare more options on our list of the best medical alert systems.
All-in-One Systems
Convenience is a big selling point for all-in-one systems. The unit has a built-in two-way speaker, GPS location technology, and a help button. It has everything you need to stay protected in a single piece of tech that you wear on your belt or around your neck. The drawback? With all of those features packed in, these pieces can be a bit bulky and heavy. We’d recommend an all-in-one system for seniors who like to travel, go on long walks, or garden.
Smartwatch
Similar to an all-in-one system, a smartwatch medical alert system features a speaker, GPS technology, and a help button. About 17 percent of Americans over the age of 50 wear a smartwatch or fitness tracker, so it makes sense for medical alert systems to follow suit. If you’re a fitness enthusiast who would enjoy tracking your activity and heart rate, a smartwatch medical alert system is a great option. Even if you’re not fitness-obsessed, it is a discreet way to gain medical alert protection. It just looks like a fancy smartwatch!
Tips for Choosing a Medical Alert System for Your Lifestyle
Still not sure which type of on-the-go system is right for you? Check out our recommendations based on your favorite activities.
- The jogger: A daily brisk walk or jog is a great way to get the heart rate up and increase blood flow to the brain. Kudos to you! A smartwatch system that you wear around your wrist would be best when you’re on a run. If walking is more your style, an all-in-one pendant may be comfortable too.
- The golfer: If you’re out on the golf course most of the day, you don’t want anything interfering with your swing! A smartwatch medical alert system would be ideal, since you wear it on the wrist. Plus, if you skip the golf cart, you can get some cardio in and use the smartwatch to track your steps on the course.
- The yogi: A neck pendant simply won’t work for older adults who get on their mat for a regular Downward-Facing Dog pose. For yoga, try a two-piece system with the base station near your mat and the help button on your wrist, or a smartwatch system.
- The artist: Whether you paint, sculpt, draw, or play music, a two-piece or all-in-one system with a neck pendant would work well. That way, nothing is on your wrist while you’re creating with your hands.
Fall Detection for Active Seniors
If you’re set on purchasing a medical alert system, your next question may be, “Do I need fall detection?” Adding fall detection usually costs an extra $5 to $10 per month, so it’s a question worth asking. If you have experienced a fall in the past, have noticed a decline in your cognition, or have hearing loss, you may be at higher risk of falling.3 If you can afford the extra cost every month, fall detection does boost the protection your system offers.
Keep in mind that fall detection is not available on smartwatches or other mobile systems worn around the wrist. Fall detection pendants typically need to be worn around the neck for the most accuracy. For more information, check out our list of the best medical alert systems with fall detection.
NPR. (2019). Older Americans Are Increasingly Unwilling — Or Unable — To Retire.
Pew Research Center. (2020). About one-in-five Americans use a smart watch or fitness tracker.
American Academy of Family Physicians. (2000). Falls in the Elderly.
