Best GPS Medical Alert Systems of 2023
Our experts tested and researched 15 cellular medical alert devices and narrowed the list to their top 4 recommendations.
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- All devices have AT&T or Verizon connectivity
- Advanced location tracking via GPS, WiFi, or LTE
- Smartwatch option
- Lightweight, wearable devices for on-the-go protection
- Affordable pricing structure
- SOS Mobile can sync with smartphone tracking app
- Combines a cell phone with advanced GPS medical alert system
- AARP discount
- No mobile contracts required
- Multiple two-for-one systems
- 30-day risk-free trial
- 24/7 U.S.-based professional monitoring center
- Easy-to-use systems
- Lifetime warranty
- Seasonal promotions
Is a GPS Medical Alert System Right for Me?
Independence has a positive impact on the quality of life for seniors.1 This includes the freedom to visit family and friends, enjoy outdoor recreation, and travel. AARP reports that in 2021, 54 percent of baby boomers planned to travel during the year.2 As seniors travel, it’s important that they stay protected, no matter where they are. That’s why a GPS medical alert system that can track your exact location and send help is so useful. These mobile systems are also excellent for seniors who spend time out and about in their local community.
If you’re caring for an aging loved one who is experiencing cognitive decline due to Alzheimer’s or memory loss, a medical alert system with GPS can provide safety for your loved one and much-needed peace of mind for you. Dementia is known to be accompanied by behaviors such as wandering, disorientation, getting lost, or going missing.3 If your loved one wanders, you can locate them quickly and get them home safely with a GPS system.
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1. Medical Guardian - Best Variety of GPS Systems
What we like most
- All devices have AT&T or Verizon connectivity
- Advanced location tracking via GPS, WiFi, or LTE
- Smartwatch option
Medical GuardianWhat Makes Medical Guardian a Top Pick?
Medical Guardian offers three GPS medical alert systems designed for various needs, ranging from an all-in-one wearable system to a sleek smartwatch option. Each of these systems is equipped with an AT&T or Verizon cellular connection. In addition, two of the three include advanced location tracking that uses GPS, Wi-Fi, and LTE. While Medical Guardian’s costs are slightly higher than some competitors, the company is known for offering cutting-edge technology, discreet equipment, and reliable, U.S.-based 24/7 monitoring.
Our Editor Jeff Hoyt testing Mobile Guardian
Our favorite GPS system that Medical Guardian offers is MGMove. It looks more like a smartwatch than a medical alert system! For active seniors or those who want a more stylish system, this is a solid option. The watch comes with all the bells and whistles, like an emergency help button, activity and advanced location tracking, step tracking, weather notifications, and calendar alerts.
To learn more, visit our latest review of Medical Guardian.
Pros About Medical Guardian
- Customizable features
- High-tech systems
- Smartwatch option
- Diverse product lineup
- Large in-home coverage range
- No hidden fees
- No long-term contracts
- U.S.-based monitoring center
Cons About Medical Guardian
- No free trial
- Pricier premium systems
- Cellular systems require AT&T coverage or Verizon coverage (provided by Medical Guardian)
Medical Guardian GPS Medical Alert Systems
System Price Battery life Tracking Fall detection available Features Mini Guardian $39.95 per month Five days GPS; Verizon cellular; Wi-Fi Yes All-in-one system; lightweight, discreet design MGMini Lite $44.95 per month 36 hours GPS; AT&T cellular; Wi-Fi Yes Watch system; step tracking capabilities, discreet design MGMove $39.95 per month 24 hours GPS; AT&T cellular No Smartwatch system; texting capabilities, sleek design 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 - Most Affordable
What we like most
- Lightweight, wearable devices for on-the-go protection
- Affordable pricing structure
- SOS Mobile can sync with smartphone tracking app
Bay Alarm MedicalWhat Makes Bay Alarm Medical a Top Pick?
Bay Alarm Medical is our top pick for affordable GPS medical alert systems, with prices starting at $32.95 per month. Bay Alarm Medical’s SOS Mobile is a lightweight, wearable option for on-the-go protection. The system also comes with a companion mobile app, so caregivers and family members can easily track the wearer’s location.
Testing the Bay Alarm Medical's Mobile Help Button
In addition, Bay Alarm offers the SOS Smartwatch, perfect for active older adults or those who want a discreet alert system. The touchscreen watch can track your steps, set daily health goals, and call for help. Overall, Bay Alarm Medical’s monthly prices are affordable, no matter the system you choose.
Head to this year's Bay Alarm Medical review for a closer look at the company’s GPS options.
Pros About Bay Alarm Medical
- Bundling options
- Affordable rates
- SOS Mobile can sync with smartphone tracking app
- Free spouse coverage
- 30-day risk-free trial
- 24/7 U.S.-based monitoring
- Unique smartwatch system
- Price lock guarantee
- No contracts
Cons About Bay Alarm Medical
- Small product lineup
- Equipment fees for some systems
Bay Alarm Medical GPS Medical Alert Systems
System Price Battery life Tracking Fall detection available Features SOS Mobile $32.95 per month Up to 6 days GPS; AT&T or Verizon cellular Yes Caregiver tracking app; all-in-one, wearable system; sleek design SOS Smartwatch $34.95 per month Up to 1 day GPS; AT&T cellular Yes Step tracking; touchscreen; sleek watch design SOS All-in-One $39.95 per month Up to 3 days GPS; AT&T cellular Yes Caregiver tracking; mobile device and help button 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 - Best Cell Phone
What we like most
- Combines a cell phone with advanced GPS medical alert system
- AARP discount
- No mobile contracts required
LivelyWhat Makes Lively a Top Pick?
Lively is a unique provider, as they offer hybrid cell phones and GPS medical alert systems. For the 91 percent of seniors ages 65+ who own a cell phone,4 a phone with a built-in medical alert system offers the best of both worlds. You can stay connected and protected with one device. Many older adults may avoid purchasing a medical alert system because of its appearance, so Lively’s phones are a great solution as they provide discreet, on-the-go protection. For those who are just looking for a medical alert device, Lively also offers a stand-alone medical alert system.
Jitterbug Flip2
Whether you go with a device or phone, you’ll have your pick of Lively’s health and safety features. For even more flexibility, you can pay for the health and safety services, and, rather than purchase a Lively device, use them on your Apple Watch or Alexa-enabled smart speaker.
Keep in mind that Lively charges an upfront equipment and activation fee for your chosen device. If you opt for one of Lively's phones, you’ll also be charged a monthly talk, text, and/or data fee.
Read our Lively review for an inside look at our experience with the company.
Pros About Lively
- Cell phone and smartphone options
- 24/7 emergency response
- AARP discount
- Variety of health and safety features
- Senior-friendly phone designs
- No mobile contracts
Cons About Lively
- Equipment and activation fees
- Only one option for non-cell phone users
Lively GPS Medical Alert Systems
System Monthly plans Battery life Tracking Fall detection available Features Lively Mobile Plus $24.99 to $34.99 per month Three days GPS; cellular Verizon Yes Waterproof help button; stand-alone alert device Jitterbug Smart4 $19.99 to $49.99 per month One day GPS; cellular Verizon; WiFi No Urgent Response button; smartphone design Jitterbug Flip2 $19.99 to $49.99 per month Five days GPS; cellular Verizon No Urgent Response button; flip phone design Lively on iPhone and Apple Watch $24.99 to $34.99 per month N/A N/A No (Fall detection is available with the Apple Watch) Urgent Response, Urgent Care, Lively Link App Lively on Alexa-enabled devices $24.99 per month N/A N/A No Urgent Response -
4. MobileHelp - Best GPS System for Two Users
What we like most
- Multiple two-for-one systems
- 30-day risk-free trial
- 24/7 U.S.-based professional monitoring center
MobileHelpWhat Makes MobileHelp a Top Pick?
MobileHelp provides GPS coverage and protection for two users at one affordable rate, placing them in our top five. While some providers require you to purchase two systems at full price or pay an extra fee for a second subscriber, MobileHelp offers multiple systems built for spouses or roommates. The Mobile Duo comes with two mobile GPS units, perfect for senior couples who are active outside of the home. Whether you’re golfing, on vacation, or spending time with friends, you and a second user will be covered at all times, even when you’re not together.
MobileHelp also offers the MobileHelp Duo bundle that combines their at-home and on-the-go GPS units, which is a great fit if you spend time on the go but your partner is more of a homebody or vice versa. A third offering is the MobileHelp Touch Duo, which includes a touchscreen tablet, a traditional on-the-go GPS device, and a help button, great if one of the spouses is a techie. This last system is a bit pricier because of the more advanced technology, costing $54.95 per month. Overall, MobileHelp’s prices for spouse monitoring are affordable.
MobileHelp On-The-Go Wrist Pendant
Want to learn more? Our review of MobileHelp covers everything you need to know about this provider.
Pros About MobileHelp
- Two-for-one systems
- Diverse product lineup
- Inexpensive spouse monitoring
- 30-day free trial period
- Free shipping for all systems
Cons About MobileHelp
- Less discreet equipment
- Short battery life
- Activation fees with monthly subscriptions
MobileHelp GPS Medical Alert Systems
System Price Battery life Tracking Fall detection available Features MobileHelp Solo $37.95 per month One day GPS; cellular AT&T Yes Waterproof help button; two-piece on-the-go system MobileHelp Micro $39.95 per month One day GPS; cellular AT&T Yes Weighs only 1.8 ounces; sleek and discreet Mobile Duo $44.95 per month One day GPS; cellular AT&T Yes Two on-the-go systems for spouses or roommates; waterproof help button MobileHelp Duo $41.95 per month One day GPS; cellular AT&T Yes At-home and on-the-go equipment; waterproof help button; in-home base station MobileHelp Touch Classic $54.95 per month One day GPS; cellular AT&T Yes At-home tablet system; health and entertainment features MobileHelp Touch Duo $54.95 per month One day GPS; cellular AT&T Yes At-home and on-the-go equipment for two users; health and entertainment features available on the tablet -
5. LifeFone - Best Battery Life
What we like most
- Easy-to-use systems
- Lifetime warranty
- Seasonal promotions
LifeFoneWhat Makes LifeFone a Top Pick?
LifeFone provides the best battery life of all the GPS systems we tested, lasting up to five days for the At-Home & On-the-Go, VIP Active® system, and 16 days for the At-Home & On-the-Go, VIPx®. This is especially useful for older adults who go on long trips or those who have a hard time remembering to charge their devices. You’ll never have to worry about being out and about with a dead battery! LifeFone also offers an affordable package with a two-piece mobile GPS system and a traditional at-home unit for more comprehensive protection.
Our Editor Jeff Hoyt with the LifeFone Voice in Necklace system
If you’re interested in this provider, visit our hands-on LifeFone review for more details.
Pros About LifeFone
- Lifetime price guarantee
- Large in-home coverage range
- No extra fees
- Lifetime warranty for all equipment
- Inexpensive fall detection
- Features for hearing and visually-impaired users
- Great ongoing promotions and deals
- Free spouse monitoring
- 30-day battery life for mobile GPS system
Cons About LifeFone
- No language support
- Accessories and add-ons can get pricey
LifeFone GPS Medical Alert Systems
System Price Battery life Tracking Fall detection available Features At-Home & On-the-Go $39.95 per month One day GPS; cellular AT&T Yes At-home and on-the-go units; waterproof equipment At-Home & On-the-Go, VIP Active® $43.95 per month Up to 5 days GPS, Voice-in-Pendant No All-in-one mobile unit; waterproof equipment At-Home & On-the-Go, VIPx® $45.95 per month Up to 16 days GPS; cellular AT&T or Verizon No Sleek, lightweight device;
Optional fall detection & caregiver’s appAt-Home & On-the-Go Safe Watch Active® $49.95 per month One day GPS; cellular AT&T; Wi-Fi Yes Discreet, black smartwatch;
step tracker; heart rate monitor; weather app
How We Picked the Best GPS Medical Alert Systems
We evaluated over 15 medical alert providers to find the best GPS medical alert systems for older adults. Our research, hands-on testing, and discussions with customer service reps helped us narrow down to a list of the top five best systems. Some of the most important things we considered were reliability, emergency support, price, wearability, and value for seniors. To make the cut, every provider on the list had to meet the following standards:
- Nationwide coverage: GPS medical alert systems are designed to pinpoint the user’s location so help can be sent straight to them. Because these systems are used on the go, it’s essential that your GPS system has coverage nationwide. That’s why all of the alert systems on our list rely on the nation’s most reliable cellular providers, like AT&T and Verizon.
- No contracts: We believe seniors deserve flexibility with their purchases. All of the providers on our list offer month-to-month subscriptions, so you’ll never be locked into a long-term contract or have to pay early termination fees.
- On-the-go offerings: The whole point of a GPS alert system is to be able to use it out and about away from home. Every provider in our top five offers at least two on-the-go medical alert systems to give you the best protection no matter where you are.
- Affordable packages: Staying protected as you age shouldn’t put a dent in your wallet, which is why all of our top providers offer a variety of budget-friendly and premium options.
- Senior-friendly design: High-tech or low-tech, the systems on our list provide simple features that are easy and intuitive to use.
How Do I Use a GPS Medical Alert System?
If you’ve decided that a medical alert system with GPS is right for you or a loved one, you might be wondering how exactly it works, and if it will fit into your lifestyle. The good news is it’s simple! There are just a few quick steps:
- Always make sure that your device is charged using the provided charging equipment.
- Remember to take your device with you when you leave the house. Depending on the type of device you have, it can either be worn around your neck or placed in a pocket or bag.
- In the event of an emergency, simply press the call button on your device and you will be connected with your programmed emergency contacts.
- The emergency response personnel will be able to locate you using the GPS signal that your device emits, allowing for necessary aid to reach you as soon as possible.
What Are the Different Types of GPS Medical Alert Systems?
You’ll have a few different options for medical alert systems with GPS, so you can find a system that best fits your needs. We’ve outlined all the details below!
- All-in-one GPS devices come with a wearable mobile unit. The unit features a built-in speaker and microphone, so you can easily call for help and communicate with the operator. These systems work in any location with cellular coverage and can easily be worn as a necklace or watch on the go. GPS technology allows family and emergency responders to track and locate the device quickly. We’d recommend all-in-one devices for those who don’t want a system with multiple pieces of equipment. Keep in mind that sometimes these systems can be a little bulky.
- Two-piece GPS devices are similar to all-in-one devices but you’ll need to carry two pieces of equipment with you instead of one. So, you’ll want to make sure you grab both when you head out the door. Typically, two-piece systems come with a small, portable base station and a wearable help button. The two-way speaker is built into the base station, so your help pendant can be much smaller. Once you press the help button, you’ll then use the base unit to talk to the operator. Two-piece systems are best for those who want a smaller, discreet help button, or those who want a base station that can be thrown in a purse, pocket, or attached to a belt clip.
- Hybrid GPS systems come with two separate systems: an in-home base station and a two-piece or all-in-one GPS device. Both devices feature a microphone and help button to connect to the monitoring center. The in-home base unit provides monitoring in the home, while the GPS device will protect you on the go. Hybrid systems are best for two users, or someone who wants both a traditional in-home unit and an on-the-go system. Hybrid systems are typically cheaper than purchasing an in-home and mobile unit separately, so they’re also a great way to save.
Comparing At-Home Medical Alert Systems to GPS Medical Alert Systems
So, what’s the difference between an at-home and GPS medical alert system? Standard at-home medical alert systems require the user to be, you guessed it, at home to be protected. They typically include a base that is connected to an outlet and/or landline phone jack, along with a wearable help button. The subscriber can use either the help button on the base unit or their pendant to call for help during an emergency. This system is best for individuals who rarely leave their homes since they can’t be used on the go. At-home systems are also great for those who live in rural areas or locations with poor cellular service, as some models can run completely through a landline.
Medical alert systems with GPS typically include a portable device that uses a cellular connection instead of a landline. These devices can be used inside or outside the home. We recommend them for older adults who leave home often to visit friends and family or enjoy outdoor activities. They’re also a good fit for older adults who experience symptoms of dementia, like wandering, to provide tracking if they get lost or go missing. As mentioned above, some of the best medical alert systems are considered hybrid, and they bundle the at-home unit and GPS device, providing the best of both worlds.
Frequently Asked Questions About GPS Medical Alert Systems
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Do I need a cell phone to use a GPS medical alert system?
No, even though GPS-enabled medical alert systems use cellular connectivity, you do not need your own cellular plan to use the system. The cellular connection will be provided by the company.
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Does a cell phone replace the need for a medical alert device?
If you’re like me and forget your cell phone in another room or misplace it for a while, you’ll realize a cell phone doesn’t provide the same protection a medical alert system does. Since medical alert devices are worn at all times, they provide around-the-clock protection that cell phones don’t.
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How fast are the emergency response times for medical alert systems?
Medical alert system users are typically connected to a live operator within 15-45 seconds after pressing their help button.
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Are medical alert systems covered by Medicare?
Original Medicare does not provide coverage for medical alert systems; however, some Medicare Advantage plans and other private insurers do. Check with your insurance provider to see if they cover medical alert devices or offer any discounts to help you save.
Ceon. (2016). The influence of activeness and independence on the quality of life of senior citizens.
AARP. (2021). Despite COVID-19 Concerns, Many Boomers Plan to Travel in 2021.
Southern Gerontological Society. (2020). Journal of Applied Gerontology.
Pew Research Center. (2019). Mobile Fact Sheet.