Best GPS Medical Alert Systems, Tested and Reviewed
The best GPS medical alert systems perform well in all of our testing categories, including GPS accuracy, battery life, and response times.
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- AT&T or Verizon connection
- Location tracking
- Pendant, wrist-worn, and smartwatch systems available
- AT&T or Verizon connection
- Location tracking
- Pendant and smartwatch systems available
- Verizon connection
- Location tracking
- Pendant and mobile phone systems available
- Discount on monthly rates and free Connect Premium for veterans
- Prices starting at $19.95 per month
- Unique features: Systems designed for two users
- Easy-to-use systems
- Lifetime warranty
- Seasonal promotions
Contents
Many older adults opt for home-based medical alert systems, but these have a limited range. As soon as your loved one leaves their property, these systems can’t alert anyone if and when there’s an emergency. Fortunately, there are dozens of GPS medical alert systems that allow seniors to carry or wear a device with them at all times.
Our senior tech experts have tested and compared the best GPS medical alert systems on the market and narrowed the list to our top picks. We evaluated each system using several important factors, such as battery life, response times, and GPS accuracy. Read on to learn more and get help finding the right GPS medical alert system for your loved one.
Our Methodology: How We Picked and Tested the Best GPS Medical Alert Systems
My grandma testing out Medical Guardian's MGMini system
We evaluated over 15 medical alert providers to find the best GPS medical alert systems for older adults. Our team spent over 150 hours on research, hands-on testing, and discussions with customer service reps, which helped us narrow down a list of the best systems. We recruited the help of older adults to test systems whenever possible and have included their feedback in our writeups.
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. All of the systems on our list rely on the nation’s most reliable cellular providers, like AT&T and Verizon.
- No contracts: 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: 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: All of our top providers offer a variety of budget-friendly and premium options to fit most budgets.
- Senior-friendly design: High-tech or low-tech, the systems on our list provide simple features that are easy and intuitive to use.
Our Top 5 GPS Medical Alert Systems
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1. Medical Guardian - Best variety
What we like most
- AT&T or Verizon connection
- Location tracking
- Pendant, wrist-worn, and smartwatch systems available
Medical GuardianOverview:
Testing out Medical Guardian's MGMini Lite
Overview
Medical Guardian offers three GPS medical alert systems designed for various needs, including a pendant-style system, a small wrist-worn help button, and a sleek smartwatch option. All three systems include location tracking and 4G LTE service, so you can receive help anywhere you go. While Medical Guardian’s costs are slightly higher than providers like Bay Alarm Medical, I’ve found that the company offers cutting-edge technology, discreet equipment, and reliable, U.S.-based 24/7 monitoring.
» Pricing Guide: Medical Guardian prices and deals
One of my favorite GPS systems 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 device, MGMove is a solid option. The watch comes with all the bells and whistles, like an emergency help button, advanced location tracking, step tracking, weather notifications, and calendar alerts.
Pros & Cons:Pros About Medical Guardian
- Smartwatch-style medical alert devices
- Customizable features
- High-tech systems
- Diverse product lineup
- No hidden fees
- No long-term contracts
- U.S.-based monitoring center
Cons About Medical Guardian
- GPS tracking doesn’t always give precise location
- No free trial
- Pricier premium systems
- Cellular systems require AT&T or Verizon coverage (provided by Medical Guardian)
Summary:Plans, Pricing, and Features
System Price Battery life Tracking Fall detection available Features MGMini $39.95 per month Five days GPS; cellular; Wi-Fi Yes All-in-one system; lightweight, discreet design MGMini Lite $44.95 per month 36 hours GPS; cellular; Wi-Fi Yes Watch system; step tracking capabilities, discreet design MGMove $39.95 per month 24 hours GPS; cellular No Smartwatch system; texting capabilities, sleek design *You can save up to 16% on your monthly premiums by paying annually.
GPS Accuracy
I’ve tested out all three of Medical Guardian’s GPS systems and had a good experience overall with the location tracking accuracy. When testing the MGMini Lite, Medical Guardian’s wrist-worn system, I tried out the location detection using the MyGuardian mobile app. This app shows you the system’s location, along with other useful information like its status and alert history. I wore the MGMini at home and while running errands. During that time, I frequently checked the mobile app to see if my location was indicated correctly. It always pinpointed me on a map right where I was!
Checking my system's location in Medical Guardian's MyGuardian mobile app
My grandma and I also put the MGMove to the test. Using Medical Guardian’s OnGuard caregiver notification feature, I had it set so that I would get a text alert if my grandma had an emergency. She initiated three separate “test” emergencies, and I was promptly texted with her location. I was able to use my phone’s built-in navigation to locate her, but in two of the three tests, the feature gave me more of a general idea of where my grandmother was located. That said, I was able to locate my grandma within minutes each time.
Testing out Medical Guardian's MGMove
Response Times
My grandma and I tested out the MGMove to see just how fast we could get an emergency response agent on the line. We initiated multiple tests by pressing the red button on the side of the watch and holding it down for five seconds, as the instructions say. After that five seconds, a friendly agent answered our call in just four seconds, so it took us a total of nine seconds to get on the line with a real person. This was incredibly fast, especially compared to some of the other providers we tested, like MobileHelp and LifeFone.
» You Might Like: 2024 MGMove review
I will say, I had a slightly slower experience with the MGMini when I was at home. To test the system’s emergency response, I pressed the button on the center of the device, and it turned blue. It took a full minute for me to connect with an operator. However, I had faster response times of around 20 seconds when I tested the system away from home. I’m assuming this long wait time was due to poor cell service in my area at the time.
» Related Reading: Medical Guardian review
Battery Life
The battery life for Medical Guardian’s systems varies by device. It ranges from around 24 hours for the MGMove to five days for the MGMini. When trying out the systems for myself, I experienced similar battery life to what Medical Guardian advertises. This is pretty solid, though the battery doesn’t last as long as systems from some of the other providers on our list. For comparison, one of LifeFone’s systems has a battery life of up to 10 days.
My grandma and I were most impressed with the MGMini’s five-day battery life, especially since I’m pretty forgetful when it comes to charging my devices. For the other two systems, I just got in the habit of charging the device by my bed each night. However, if an emergency were to happen in the night, this wouldn’t be very helpful. You can also try charging your device while doing things like reading or watching TV when you’re not moving around as much. Just make sure to keep the device within arm’s reach so you can grab it if you need to!
Line up the gold pins on the MGMove with the gold pins on the charging cradle for a successful charge.
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2. Bay Alarm Medical - Most Affordable
What we like most
- AT&T or Verizon connection
- Location tracking
- Pendant and smartwatch systems available
Bay Alarm MedicalOverview:
Bay Alarm Medical's SOS Mobile with fall detection is small and portable
Overview
Bay Alarm Medical is my top pick for affordable GPS medical alert systems, with prices starting at $34.95 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 I could easily track the device’s location. This was one of my favorite features, as I didn’t have to wait on an emergency alert text to know where the device was.
» Our Full Review: Bay Alarm Medical alert system review 2024
Bay Alarm Medical also offers the SOS Smartwatch, perfect for active older adults or those who want a discreet alert system. The touch-screen watch can track your steps, set daily health goals, and call for help, much like Medical Guardian’s MGMove. Lastly, the company has an All-in-One system, which is pretty similar to the SOS Mobile. It’s just a little less sleek and costs $5 more. Overall, Bay Alarm Medical’s monthly prices are affordable, no matter the system you choose.
» Pricing Info: Bay Alarm Medical plans and pricing
Pros & Cons:Pros About Bay Alarm Medical
- SOS Mobile can sync with smartphone tracking app
- 24/7 U.S.-based monitoring
- Bundling options
- Affordable rates
- Optional fall detection
- 30-day risk-free trial
- Smartwatch system
- Price lock guarantee
- No contracts
Cons About Bay Alarm Medical
- Small product lineup
- Equipment fees for some systems
Summary:Plans, Pricing, and Features
System Price Battery life Tracking Fall detection available Features SOS Mobile $34.95 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 6 to 12 hours 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 GPS Accuracy
Not only does Bay Alarm Medical’s SOS Mobile offer very accurate GPS tracking, but it also makes it easier for caregivers to keep track of their loved ones' locations from their smartphones. With the companion mobile app, I could see exactly where my grandma was at any given time. I could see her while she was on the move (headed to the pharmacy), as well as when she was resting at home. The app has lots of other great features too, like step tracking, the status of the device’s battery life, and more.
Navigating Bay Alarm Medical's companion mobile app
My favorite app feature is the Locate My Device option. If I misplaced my system, all I had to do was press “Ring Device” in the app. Then, the SOS Mobile started ringing through its two-way speaker. As someone who is notorious for misplacing my devices, I loved this! If your loved one is forgetful like me, it’s a great feature.
You can ring a lost device in the Bay Alarm Medical app
Response Times
Bay Alarm Medical has solid response times. I tested out the response times on the SOS Smartwatch by pressing the watch’s help button on the side of the watch. After holding down the button for five seconds, I was connected to an agent in around five seconds. I let the agent know I was just making a test call, which she confirmed and verified my identity. These response times are very similar to Medical Guardian’s times for the MGMove smartwatch.
Testing out Bay Alarm Medical's SOS Smartwatch
Battery Life
Similar to most of the other companies on our list, the battery life will vary by system. SOS Mobile has the best battery life of up to six days. During my testing, the device lasted for about 5.5 days, so that’s pretty accurate. When my device hit 10 percent battery life, the system’s help button started flashing red every 26 seconds. I appreciate this reminder to charge your device. No one wants to walk around wearing a system with a dead battery!
Charging Bay Alarm Medical’s SOS Mobile system
The SOS Smartwatch lasts up to 12 hours, according to Bay Alarm Medical, which is pretty short for a medical alert system. I was able to get a full day of use out of my watch before it was time to recharge. I set my watch on its charging station, and it took about two hours to fully recharge, which is pretty typical for mobile devices.
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3. Lively - Best cell phone system
What we like most
- Verizon connection
- Location tracking
- Pendant and mobile phone systems available
LivelyOverview:
My grandma trying out the Jitterbug Smart4
Overview
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,1 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. My grandma is a big fan of Lively’s phones for this very reason. She owns a Medical Guardian system, but she loves that Lively’s devices look just like a regular cell phone. For those who are just looking for a medical alert device, Lively also offers a stand-alone GPS system.
» Plan Breakdown: Jitterbug phone plans for seniors 2024
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. I’m not a big fan of activation fees, but they might be worth it if you’re looking for a senior-friendly phone with medical alert protection. If you opt for one of Lively's phones, you’ll also be charged a monthly talk, text, and/or data fee.
» Dive Deeper: Lively medical alert review
Pros & Cons:Pros About Lively
- Cell phone and smartphone options
- Fast, 24/7 emergency response
- AARP discount
- Optional fall detection
- 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
Summary:Plans, Pricing, and Features
System Monthly plans Battery life Tracking Fall detection available Features Lively Mobile2 $24.99 to $34.99 per month Up to 40 GPS; cellular Verizon Yes Waterproof help button; stand-alone alert device Jitterbug Smart4 $19.99 to $49.99 per month Up to 37 days GPS; cellular Verizon; Wi-Fi No Urgent Response button; smartphone design Jitterbug Flip2 $19.99 to $49.99 per month Up to 12 hours 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 to $34.99 per month N/A N/A No Urgent Response GPS Accuracy
We tested out the accuracy of Lively’s standalone medical alert system, Lively Mobile2, along with the Jitterbug Smart4 and Jitterbug Flip2. Our plan included Lively Link, which is a mobile app that lets me track my grandma’s location at any given time, much like Bay Alarm Medical’s companion app. I could also see an emergency call history, the status of her device, and receive alerts if she called for help.
Tracking my grandmas location using the Lively Link mobile app
We were both surprised by the accuracy of the GPS when testing the Jitterbug Smart4 and Jitterbug Flip2. Anytime I clicked “view on map” in the Lively Link app, it would automatically bring up an accurate map pinpointing my grandma’s precise location. I could also refresh the map to see if there had been any changes since I last checked.
I will say there was a bit of an issue with identifying the Lively Mobile2’s location. The first time I placed a test call by pressing the system’s help button, the agent I spoke with had a hard time pinpointing my location and thought I was in a different place than I was. I didn’t have this issue when I placed additional test calls. However, knowing exactly where you are during an emergency is essential, so this is something worth noting.
Response Times
Based on the test emergencies my grandma and I initiated on Lively’s three devices, the average response time was 10 seconds. These response times were the same as they were for Bay Alarm Medical and Medical Guardian. I thought it was funny that our three top medical alert companies had the same average times! During an emergency, every second counts, so I appreciate these speedy responses.
Placing a test call on the Lively Mobile2
Battery Life
The Jitterbug Smart4 has a battery that lasts up to 37 hours, which is pretty typical for a smartphone. My grandma and I noticed that the battery lasted much longer than the last iteration of this phone, the Jitterbug Smart3; I appreciate that Lively has improved the batteries of its devices over time. The Jitterbug Flip2 lasts up to 12 hours, so I just charged my device each night before bed.
» Related Reading: Jitterbug Smart4 review and Jitterbug Flip2 review
As for the Lively Mobile2, it lasts up to 40 hours. While that’s still pretty solid, Bay Alarm Medical’s SOS mobile has it beat with an extra 32 hours of battery life. As long as you remember to charge your device every day or two, it shouldn’t be an issue. Just something to keep in mind.
Charging the Lively Mobile2
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4. MobileHelp - Best for Two Users
What we like most
- Discount on monthly rates and free Connect Premium for veterans
- Prices starting at $19.95 per month
- Unique features: Systems designed for two users
MobileHelpOverview:
MobileHelp Duo
Overview
MobileHelp provides GPS coverage and protection for two users at one affordable rate, placing them on our list. While some providers (like Lively or Medical Guardian) 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.
One of my favorite things about this system is that there are multiple ways to wear it. You can wear the mobile unit around your neck as a necklace, or you can throw the mobile unit in a purse or pocket and wear a smaller help pendant as a necklace or wristband. The latter option allows you to wear your system more discreetly, perfect for those who don’t like the looks of a medical alert system. During testing, I could easily tuck the help pendant underneath a shirt or sweater to hide it while keeping the mobile unit in my purse.
» Learn More: 2024 MobileHelp review
MobileHelp also offers the 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 touch-screen 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 competitive and, depending on the plan you choose, even more affordable than a one-person system from a carrier like Lively.
Pros & Cons: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
- GPS tracking is limited for caregivers
- Less discreet equipment
- Short battery life
- Activation fees with monthly subscriptions
Summary:Plans, Pricing, and Features
System Price Battery life Tracking Fall detection available Features MobileHelp Solo $41.95 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 $49.95 per month One day GPS; cellular AT&T Yes Two on-the-go systems for spouses or roommates; waterproof help button MobileHelp Duo $46.95 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 GPS Accuracy
I tested out the MobileHelp Touch Duo plan to see how well it worked for at-home and on-the-go emergencies. I kept the touch-screen tablet at home, which has built-in GPS tracking. When I went out for a walk, I tested the accuracy of the mobile unit’s GPS feature, and it was about as accurate as Medical Guardian’s MGMove. It would give me a general area (within about 30 feet), but it wasn’t always perfectly precise.
» Useful Resource: Best cellular medical alert systems
The other potential drawback of MobileHelp’s system is the way that location tracking is tacked onto plans. I couldn’t just check my system’s location at any given moment. Instead, I had to “ping” my device’s location each time I wanted to check it, and I could only request the location 30 times per month. If I needed to use it more often, I’d have to pay an extra $6 per month for another 30 location requests. I’m not a big fan of this limitation, as other companies like Medical Guardian and Bay Alarm Medical let you check the device’s location as often as you want. This system is not ideal for caregivers or family members who like to check on their loved ones more than once per day.
Response Times
When I initiated multiple test emergencies, I recorded average response times of 25 to 30 seconds. This is slower than other providers on our list like Lively and Bay Alarm Medical. While every second counts in a real emergency, it’s hard to complain about a GPS medical alert system that can have an agent on the line in less than a minute!
Testing out MobileHelp's wearable help button
Battery Life
All of MobileHelp’s GPS systems have a battery life of about one day. There are options with longer battery lives from companies like Medical Guardian, LifeFone, and Lively. I do wish MobileHelp had some systems that offered better battery life. However, as long as you remember to charge your device once a day, it shouldn’t be an issue. Plus, building a daily charge into your routine might be easier to remember than charging your device every three or four days!
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5. LifeFone - Best Battery Life
What we like most
- Easy-to-use systems
- Lifetime warranty
- Seasonal promotions
LifeFoneOverview:
Charging LifeFone's VIP flex system
Overview
LifeFone has several on-the-go systems, including two pendant-style systems, a smartwatch, and a bracelet-style system. The company has the best battery life of all the GPS systems I tested, lasting up to five days for the At-Home & On-the-Go VIP Flex and VIP Active systems and 10 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 again!
» Our Full Review: LifeFone medical alert system review 2024
I also appreciate that LifeFone has several systems to choose from, so you can find the one that’s right for your needs. The company’s GPS systems can get a little pricey, though. For instance, the At-Home & On-the-Go Safe Watch Active costs $49.95 per month. However, I learned you can save a few bucks a month if you pay for your system annually or quarterly instead of monthly.
Pros & Cons:Pros About LifeFone
- Excellent battery life on mobile GPS devices
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- Option of Verizon or AT&T coverage
- Affordable fall detection add-ons
- No equipment fees
- No long-term contracts
- Price-lock guarantee
- Lifetime equipment warranty
Cons About LifeFone
- No language support
- No all-in-one device with fall detection
Summary:Plans, Pricing, and Features
System Price Battery life Tracking Fall detection available Features At-Home & On-the-Go, VIP Flex $45.95 per month Five days GPS; cellular AT&T or Verizon Yes At-home and on-the-go units; water-resistant equipment At-Home & On-the-Go, VIP Active® $43.95 per month Up to 5 days GPS; cellular AT&T Yes All-in-one mobile unit; water-resistant equipment At-Home & On-the-Go, VIPx® $45.95 per month 10 days GPS; cellular AT&T or Verizon Yes Sleek, lightweight device; water-resistant equipment; optional caregiver app At-Home & On-the-Go Safe Watch Active $49.95 per month One day GPS; cellular AT&T; Wi-Fi Yes Discreet, black smartwatch; water-resistant equipment; step tracker; heart rate monitor; weather app GPS Accuracy
All of LifeFone’s devices delivered great GPS tracking, with precise results. I tested the VIPx and was impressed with the accuracy of its tracking. The mobile app allowed me to keep tabs on my system at any time of day or night, which is great for caregivers who want to know about potential emergencies before they happen. I also tested the location accuracy by placing test calls to LifeFone’s 24/7 urgent response center. When I placed a call by pressing the system’s help button, I asked the operator to verify my location, and he did so correctly!
One major drawback to GPS tracking with the mobile app is that LifeFone charges $8 per month for access to the app. This is pretty disappointing, as Medical Guardian, Lively, and Bay Alarm Medical offer free access to their mobile apps. The app does come with a variety of useful features, though, such as detailed activity tracking, daily step counts, location detection, and battery status. If you’re on a tight budget, I’d recommend one of the other providers on our list, but if you want more detailed activity tracking, it could be a good option.
» Our Full Review: LifeFone pricing and packages
Response Times
I placed several test calls by pressing the help button on my VIPx device. I was always greeted by a friendly representative who asked if I needed assistance. After doing several tests, I calculated average response times of 20 seconds with the LifeFone VIPx device. It couldn’t beat Medical Guardian, Lively, or Bay Alarm Medical response times, but it was still pretty fast.
Battery Life
Battery life is a big part of the reason that LifeFone made this list. The company offers several GPS systems with long battery life, including the At-Home & On-the-Go, VIPx, which lasts a whopping 10 days. That’s a full week and a half! If you forget your charger on vacation or just get annoyed when you have to charge your devices regularly, this is a great option. The VIP Active and VIP Flex systems last up to five days, while the At-Home & On-the-Go Safe Watch Active lasts up to one day. Regardless of the system you pick, the battery life is pretty solid.
Is a GPS Medical Alert System Right for Me?
Independence has a positive impact on quality of life for seniors.2 This includes the freedom to visit family and friends, enjoy outdoor recreation, and travel. As older adults 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 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.
» Related Reading: Senior travel and vacations
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 often 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.
FYI: If you’re looking for a quality medical alert device for a loved one with Alzheimer’s or dementia, check out our guide to the best medical alert systems for seniors with dementia.
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, on your wrist, 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?
There are 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 at home to be protected. They typically include a base that’s connected to an outlet 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.
» Also Check Out: Best medical alert systems with voice activation
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, though caregivers may need a mobile device to use a companion app.
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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 10 to 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.
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Sage Journals. (2020). Measuring Risk of Wandering and Symptoms of Dementia Via Caregiver Report.