Best Medical Alert Watches of 2024
Medical Guardian’s MGMove is our top pick for medical alert watches thanks to its sleek design, excellent monitoring, and high-tech features.
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- Prices starting at $39.95 per month
- Step tracking
- Automatic fall detection available
- Prices starting at $34.95 per month
- Step tracking
- Automatic fall detection available
- Starting at $24.99 per month
- Heart-rate monitoring and step tracking
- Automatic fall detection available
- Starting at $29.95 per month
- Heart rate monitoring and step tracking
- Automatic fall detection available
- Make calls and send texts
- Tracks steps, heart rate, sleep, and stress levels
- Durable design
Contents
Smartwatches with medical alert capabilities have multiple safety functions for discrete protection, along with health and wellness features like step tracking and heart monitoring. These medical alert watches can give older adults the confidence and tools to stay active safely.
My team of tech experts and I have tested the industry’s best medical alert systems and narrowed down the list to our top smartwatches. We evaluated each watch for important factors like price, battery life, design and comfort, usability, and customer service. Our team also consulted with Linda Schlenker, home health occupational therapist and home safety expert, who contributed her insights to this article.
Our Methodology: How We Tested and Selected the Best Medical Alert Watches
My grandma testing out a medical alert smartwatch from Medical Guardian
As SeniorLiving.org’s tech expert, I know older adults don’t always want to use medical alert systems. I’ve spoken with some seniors who feel self-conscious about wearing a button around their necks. Others don’t want to remember to wear an extra device. Fortunately, medical alert smartwatches can help address those issues.
After over 200 hours of research, hands-on product testing, and chats with customer service, our team narrowed down the list to our top medical alert watches. I evaluated each watch over a weeklong period, taking notes on ease of use, senior-friendly features, price and value, health features, quality of customer service, response times, and more.
I also recruited older adults, like my mom and grandma, to test out these watches. Using their feedback and my experience, I was able to create a comprehensive picture of each device.
Each medical alert watch on this list had to meet our most important criteria, listed below:
- Medical alert features: The primary purpose of a medical alert watch is to keep you safe and protected at all times. We also evaluated each watch’s response times, making 10 test calls. Every device connected to an agent in 15 seconds or less (on average).
- Price range: Some users may want the latest and greatest features with the price tag to match, while other older adults need a budget-friendly option. The watches on our list cater to a variety of budgets. Though medical alert watches tend to be more expensive than conventional, at-home medical alert systems, we only included watches offering solid value for the money. We evaluated monthly costs, equipment fees, additional fees, and season discounts.
- Battery life: Every watch on our list had a battery life lasting at least 18 hours during testing. That means you or your loved one can wear it for a full day without worrying about a dead battery during an emergency.
- Additional features: Since many medical alert watches can double as smartwatches, they often come with many useful features. Some of these include step tracking, reminders, companion apps, texting, and even hands-free calling. We considered all of these features (and more) while testing which watches would best fit the needs of older adults.
- Design and comfort: Since many people are accustomed to wearing watches, medical alert watches may feel more comfortable and familiar than pendants or other types of medical alert devices. We tested each watch to see how it felt to wear it in various settings — from walking around the neighborhood to taking a shower. We specifically focused on weight, size, and strap design.
- Usability: Like smartphones, smartwatches are only practical if you can figure out how to use them! We tested out various features on each device, evaluating the interface and how easy it is to do things like check the time, set reminders, and — most importantly — call for help in an emergency. The devices on our list make it easy to get help when it’s needed, though some are better suited for tech-savvy seniors than others.
- Customer service: In addition to speaking with agents at emergency response centers, we called or messaged customer service representatives from each provider. All of the providers on our list offer fast, knowledgeable, and friendly customer service. This makes it easy for older adults to get their questions answered and troubleshoot issues quickly.
» Learn More: How we test medical alert systems
Best Medical Alert Watch Comparison
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Medical Guardian MGMove
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Bay Alarm Medical SOS Smartwatch
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Apple Watch Series 10
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WellBe from HandsFree Health
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Samsung Galaxy Watch 6
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|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rating | 4.5 | 4.0 | 4.2 | 4 | 4.0 |
| Cost | $299.99 + monthly cellular plan fees | $159.95 + $34.95 monthly fee | $119.95 + $29.95 monthly fee | $399 + cellular plan fees; $24.99 monthly for a compatible Lively plan | $299.99 + cellular plan fees |
| Max battery Life | One day | 18 hours | 32 hours | 36 hours | Two days |
| Water-resistant | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Fall detection capabilities | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Heart rate monitoring | No | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| SOS contact | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Average response times | 9 seconds | 10 seconds | 15 seconds | 15 seconds | 10 seconds |
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1. Medical Guardian MGMove - Best for active seniors
What we like most
- Prices starting at $39.95 per month
- Step tracking
- Automatic fall detection available
Medical Guardian MGMoveOverview:Overview
Medical Guardian’s MGMove provides freedom for active seniors. Whether you’re on a run, golfing, or doing yoga, this watch gives you medical alert protection. I noticed that it’s smaller than the previous Medical Guardian alert watch I tested, the Freedom Guardian. The older model was a bit bulkier and less discreet, so I appreciate these improvements. MGMove is water-resistant (pretty standard with medical alert watches), so I could wear it in the shower. I really liked having this protection, as many falls occur in the bathroom. 1
Expert InsightsFrom Linda Schlenker, M.S., M.A., O.T.R.,It is so important all these medical alert watches are water-resistant. In my opinion, having fall detection and the ability to wear a medical alert watch in the shower are necessities.The MGMove even has a “shake to wake” feature. This made it easy to shake my smartwatch into action without pressing any buttons. Another great feature is the texting option, though the messaging features aren’t as advanced as texting via an Apple Watch. I could only respond to texts on the watch with a few preprogrammed responses or a short audio clip. However, if you’re just looking for a quick, basic way to stay in touch without pulling out your cell phone, the MGMove smartwatch is a great option.
Options when you go to send a new message.
Pros & Cons:Pros About Medical Guardian MGMove
- Easy touchscreen navigation
- Advanced location detection that uses GPS, Wi-Fi and LTE
- 24/7 professional monitoring
- Health features for active seniors
- Text-to-speech communication
- MyGuardian companion app for family and caregivers
- Sleek, discrete design
- One-day battery life
Cons About Medical Guardian MGMove
- More expensive than traditional medical alert systems
- No automatic fall detection available
- Can only text companion mobile app users
Our Hands-on Experience:Senior-Friendly Features
I tested out the MGMove with my grandma to get her thoughts on the smartwatch. Fortunately, it passed the senior test with flying colors! Medical Guardian designed the MGMove to be easy to use, even for those who’ve never used a smartwatch. Thanks to the large display and easily identifiable icons, my grandma was able to check the weather, count her steps, and send a few texts without assistance.
» Also Check Out: The best smartwatches for seniors
We tested the emergency response feature together by pressing the red SOS button on the side of the watch. There’s also an SOS button on the touch screen. I like the various options to call for help. I held down the side button for five seconds and a countdown appeared on the screen. This gave me a few seconds to cancel the call if I pressed it accidentally. After the countdown, I was connected to a friendly agent in just four seconds. That means I was speaking to a real person 9 seconds after I pressed the button! The average response times for medical alert systems are anywhere from 15 to 45 seconds, so I was definitely impressed.
Current Deal: You can save 16 percent on the cost of your monitoring plan by paying annually. Choosing an annual subscription will also get you shipping, one month of service, and a lockbox — all free of charge.
Pressing in the red SOS button on the side of the MGMove
My grandma really liked the text-to-voice feature, which is helpful for seniors who don’t want to squint to read small text. The only downside is that you have to pay $5 more per month just to send texts. Even then, you can only send basic responses or voice messages to those who have the MyGuardian app. This may get a little confusing for some, as it just adds another place to keep up with incoming and outgoing text messages. My grandma has been an Apple Watch user for a few years, so she was used to being able to text or call anyone straight from her watch. If you’re looking for something more advanced, you may want to check out the Apple Watch.
» Dive Deeper: 2024 MGMove review
Pricing
This Medical Guardian system is on the pricier side compared to traditional medical alert systems. It costs $199.95, plus a monthly monitoring fee of $39.95. For comparison, traditional in-home medical alert systems start at around $20 per month, and they typically don’t have equipment fees. Still, this is less expensive than Medical Guardian’s former smartwatch model, the Freedom Guardian, which cost $249.95. I appreciate that they’ve come down in price!
FYI: You can pay annually to save up to 16 percent and score a free month of service, free lockbox, and free ground shipping.
You’ll also pay an additional monthly fee if you want to access premium features, like OnGuard Alerts. This feature automatically alerts selected contacts in the event of an emergency. I’m not a big fan of these extra fees for certain features. Still, if you want a medical alert watch that caters to the needs of seniors, the MGMove may be right for you. Plus, when you compare its equipment fee ($199.95) to other smartwatches like the Apple Watch Series 9 ($399), it’s fairly inexpensive!
» Related Reading: Workouts and exercises for seniors
Who Is the MGMove Best For?
I’d recommend the MGMove for:
- Active seniors
- Those who want a more discreet medical alert system
- Users who want a smartwatch designed for older adults
- Those who don’t need advanced smartwatch features like smartphone pairing or making calls to loved ones
If that sounds like you, check out our 2024 Medical Guardian review for more info!
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2. Bay Alarm Medical SOS Smartwatch - Most user-friendly smartwatch
What we like most
- Prices starting at $34.95 per month
- Step tracking
- Automatic fall detection available
Bay Alarm Medical SOS SmartwatchOverview:
Testing out Bay Alarm Medical's SOS Smartwatch
Overview
While some seniors might be deterred from a smartwatch due to confusing, high-tech features, the SOS Smartwatch is simple and streamlined. I found that the watch’s design, features, and navigation are intuitive. They just make sense, regardless of your experience with smartwatches. There are no extra buttons, complex features, or companion mobile apps to confuse you. You can navigate the watch with the swipe of a finger, and large icons clearly display what each button does.
» Learn More: Bay Alarm Medical review
Similar to the MGMove, the SOS Smartwatch features step tracking and daily step goals, making it an excellent option for active seniors. That means you can stay protected on the go while monitoring your health with one simple device. The watch also has a built-in speaker, microphone, and GPS tracking. This way, the operator can locate and speak with you quickly during an emergency.
Current Deal: Bay Alarm Medical offers free shipping and one free month of service when you opt for the SOS Smartwatch with an annual subscription plan.
I noticed that the SOS Smartwatch and MGMove look nearly identical, and they had a lot of similar features. The only major differences were that the SOS Smartwatch doesn’t have a companion mobile app, you can’t send texts, and it’s a bit less expensive (more on pricing later). If you’re looking for a simpler, more affordable watch, I’d recommend the SOS Smartwatch over the MGMove.
Pros & Cons:Pros About Bay Alarm Medical SOS Smartwatch
- Simple interface that’s ideal for seniors
- Loud speaker and microphone
- LTE connectivity
- No need to pair a smartphone
- Competitive device and plan pricing
- 24/7 US-based monitoring
- Built-in step tracker
- Lightweight, comfortable, and water-resistant design
Cons About Bay Alarm Medical SOS Smartwatch
- Fall detection is only available with higher-tier plans
- Limited advanced features
- No companion mobile app for caregivers
Our Hands-on Experience:Senior-Friendly Features
While testing Bay Medical Alarm’s SOS Smartwatch with my grandma, I got positive feedback on just about every facet of the device. It has a comfortable and lightweight design, weighing in at just 1.3 ounces. For comparison, the Apple Watch Series 9 weighs 1.8 ounces and the MGMove weighs 2 ounces. I found that the watch also has a simple interface and loud microphone/speaker combo, perfect for those with hearing loss.
Adjusting the volume on Bay Alarm Medical's SOS Smartwatch
That said, when you compare it to more advanced smartwatches like the Samsung Galaxy Watch6, it’s a bit short on features. This makes it a better choice for those who want a simple device that can tell time and call for help in an emergency. Since you don’t need to pair it with a smartphone, you can even go for a hike or a swim with all the emergency alert features you need on your wrist!
» You Might Like: Best medical alert bracelets
It’s also easy to reach Bay Alarm Medical’s urgent response team on the watch. Similar to the MGMove, all I had to do was hold down the red SOS button on the side of the watch for a few seconds. Then, I was connected to a helpful operator in about 10 seconds (just one second slower than Medical Guardian’s response time).
Pricing
The SOS Smartwatch has a one-time $159 equipment fee, making it around $40 cheaper than the MGMove. While there are a few less expensive smartwatches on the market (like Wellbe’s Medical Alert Watch), there are also much pricier ones; it’s a good middle-of-the-road option. Along with the upfront fee, Bay Alarm Medical’s cost for monitoring is $34.95 per month, which is very affordable for a medical alert system with GPS.
If you want extra features like fall detection or a bundled in-home system, you can upgrade to the Fall Detection Plan ($44.95 per month) or the 360-Degree Bundle ($59.95 per month). Having three plan options is great for seniors who want more flexibility with their plan and budget.
Who Is the SOS Smartwatch Best For?
I’d recommend Bay Alarm Medical’s watch for:
- Active seniors who want to track their steps
- Those who want a simple smartwatch
- Budget-conscious older adults
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3. Apple Watch Series 10 - Best high-tech features
What we like most
- Starting at $24.99 per month
- Heart-rate monitoring and step tracking
- Automatic fall detection available
Apple Watch Series 10Overview:Overview
My mom using her Apple Watch
The Apple Watch is the most famous smartwatch on the market, hands down. In fact, it’s a staple in my family. My mom, grandma, aunt, sister, and cousins all own an Apple Watch! Despite not calling itself a medical alert device, the Apple Watch has built-in fall detection at no extra cost on several models. This is pretty rare, as traditional medical alert watches charge an additional monthly fee for fall detection. I’m a big fan of cutting out extra fees like this. Fall detection is automatically switched on for those who register their date of birth when signing up and are over the age of 65. You can also turn the feature on or off in the watch’s settings.
FYI: The Apple Watch can last up to 36 hours when in low-power mode. Just keep in mind that some features may not work or could take longer with this feature enabled.
In case of a fall, the watch will sound an alarm and send you an alert. If you don’t respond right away, it will automatically call emergency services. The watch will also send a message to your emergency contacts to let them know a fall occurred. When traveling abroad, the Apple Watch will even connect you to international emergency responders. That’s worth noting — it’s a rare feature. The WellBe Medical Alert Watch, and most other U.S.-based medical alert watches, don’t offer international emergency response. That makes it an excellent option for seniors who love to travel.
Expert InsightsFrom Linda Schlenker, M.S., M.A., O.T.R.,Many seniors I work with already had an Apple Watch and upgraded to an improved Apple Watch for the additional safety and health features.Moreover, the Apple Watch has a health category that let me monitor my heart rate, activity levels, and sleep patterns. That makes it the most advanced watch on our list! I noticed these features kept me motivated and encouraged me to get active. My mom feels the same. She’s a longtime Apple Watch user, and she really enjoys these extra health features. We use her watch whenever we go on a hike or take a walk together. It makes it fun to track our progress!
Turning on fall detection on my Mom's Apple Watch
All in all, the Apple Watch is ideal for tech-savvy seniors who enjoy being active. As with any Apple product, there are many features to discover that go beyond the health aspects. If you’re very technology-averse or you don’t want a watch that’s too complicated, I’d recommend looking into something simpler, like the SOS Smartwatch. On the other hand, if you want all the latest and greatest features, the Apple Watch Series 10 is an excellent choice.
The Apple Watch Series 10 is lighter and thinner than previous models and comes in a new titanium option for the case. It has the fastest processor, a new speaker, a larger display, the latest sensors, and quick charging. The Series 10 is packed with health features like EKGs, irregular heartbeat alerts, fall detection, sleep apnea detection, walking steadiness, and emergency calling. It’s the perfect smartwatch for everyday health management.
Pros & Cons:Pros About Apple Watch Series 10
- Larger, brighter screen than previous models
- Built-in fall detection at no extra charge
- High-tech, advanced features
- Superior design
- Variety of health and lifestyle features
- Talk and text capabilities
- Pairs easily with iPhones
- Customizable wristbands and accessories
- Can be used at home and on the go
Cons About Apple Watch Series 10
- Might be too complicated for seniors who struggle with technology
- No professional monitoring center
- Expensive equipment fee
- No improvement on battery life compared to previous models
- No longer has Blood Oxygen app
Our Hands-on Experience:Senior-Friendly Features
My grandma has been an iPhone and Apple Watch user for years, so she has no problem navigating the Apple Watch. She also loves the added protection of automatic fall detection. However, seniors who aren’t Apple users may feel a bit overwhelmed by all of the apps and features.
When my mom first bought her Apple Watch, she was worried about clicking the wrong thing. She often didn’t know how to access features like heart rate without assistance. The Apple Watch isn’t the most senior-friendly watch on this list, especially if you don’t feel comfortable using new tech. However, if you’re an iPhone user or you’re comfortable with advanced devices, the Apple Watch Series 10 has many great features that are unavailable with most other medical alert watches.
» Learn About: The best iPhones for seniors
It’s also important to remember the Apple Watch Series 10 isn’t a medical alert watch in the traditional sense — it’s actually an advanced smartwatch with emergency alert features. If you’re looking for a dedicated emergency alert device, you might prefer the SOS Smartwatch, MGMove, or another watch that will connect you to a dedicated professional monitoring center.
Pricing
There are several Apple Watch models to choose from, and you can often find older or refurbished models on sale. The Apple Watch Series 10 currently costs $399. You’ll also pay a monthly fee for a cellular plan if you use your watch without Wi-Fi access or if you don’t have an iPhone. These plans can vary in price by cellular provider, but they typically cost $10 per month. With the Apple Watch’s many features, this is a very affordable monthly price. While you’ll be paying a few hundred dollars more up front compared to other smartwatches, the monthly fees are much lower than they are for traditional medical alert systems.
Who Is the Apple Watch Series 10 Best For?
I’d recommend the Apple Watch for:
- Active seniors who want the latest smartwatch features
- Those who don’t want a traditional medical alert device
- Users looking for advanced talk and text capabilities
- Older adults who are familiar with Apple products
- Seniors that need fall detection, health tracking, and emergency features
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4. WellBe from HandsFree Health
What we like most
- Starting at $29.95 per month
- Heart rate monitoring and step tracking
- Automatic fall detection available
WellBe from HandsFree HealthOverview:
Testing out the Wellbe Medical Alert Watch
Overview
The WellBe Medical Alert Watch from HandsFree Health made our list because it offers a lot more than just medical alert protection. The watch helps older adults stay healthy by monitoring heart rate and steps. Plus, when used with the company’s Smart Speaker, WellBe can help keep track of your medications, appointments, health insurance benefits, and more! The watch has two-way communication, so you can chat with a trained operator straight from the device in an emergency.
I was also impressed with WellBe’s commitment to privacy. The company keeps users’ health information safe on a HIPAA-compliant platform. This means you don’t have to worry about your medical information being shared.
Pros & Cons:Pros About WellBe from HandsFree Health
- Budget-friendly device and plan
- Two-way emergency communication
- Heart monitoring and step tracker
- Add-ons for health support and reminders
- Long battery life
- 4G LTE connectivity
- Sleek, modern design
- 24/7 professional monitoring
- GPS location tracking
- Simple companion app
Cons About WellBe from HandsFree Health
- Fall detection costs extra
- No option for hands-free calling
Our Hands-on Experience:Senior-Friendly Features
The WellBe Medical Alert Watch’s sleek design distinguishes it from more “obvious” medical alert watches, like the MGMove. In fact, the WellBe Medical Alert Watch looks and feels a lot like the Apple Watch Series 10 at a fraction of the price. I found its high-resolution LCD screen very clear and responsive. My grandma liked that she could stay protected with a device that has the same look and feel as a smartwatch for “younger folks.”
The WellBe Medical Alert Watch has a strong lithium battery that lasted up to 32 hours during testing. It also has a stellar companion app that makes it easy to manage settings from your phone. I could set reminders, input information about my health, and adjust the settings from the mobile app.
View your schedule in the WellBe app
I will say, I have a pretty small wrist, and the watch felt a little large and bulky. Nonetheless, the WellBe Medical Alert Watch is a great fit for seniors who are a bit more tech-savvy and want a budget-friendly, modern-looking device.
Expert InsightsFrom Linda Schlenker, M.S., M.A., O.T.R.,I love that WellBe has medication and appointment reminders. Those are unique features.Pricing
The Medical Alert Watch costs $159.95, plus WellBe’s subscription fee of $29.95 per month. For comparison, WellBe’s equipment fee is roughly the same as Bay Alarm Medical’s SOS Smartwatch. Its monthly rates are slightly less expensive. However, if you want fall detection, you’ll need to pay an additional $10 per month — a pretty standard fee among medical alert providers.
» Related Reading: Best medical alert systems with fall detection
Who Is the WellBe Medical Alert Watch Best For?
The WellBe watch is my pick for:
- Seniors who want a watch that can monitor heart health
- Those who are interested in purchasing a WellBe Smart Speaker
- Users who want a more discreet alert watch
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5. Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 - Best for visually impaired seniors
What we like most
- Make calls and send texts
- Tracks steps, heart rate, sleep, and stress levels
- Durable design
Samsung Galaxy Watch 6Overview:
Samsung Galaxy Watch 6. Source: Samsung
Overview
An estimated one million Americans are registered as blind, a figure that’s set to double by 2050.2 So, when using a medical alert watch, poor eyesight could potentially exclude many older adults. This is where the Samsung Galaxy Watch6’s 33-millimeter screen really shines; it can produce up to 2,000 nits of brightness — that’s a lot! For reference, the Samsung Galaxy S24 smartphone, known for its very bright screen, has a maximum brightness level of 1,750 nits. The large screen and brightness level of the Samsung Galaxy Watch6 are ideal features for seniors with visual impairment.
» You Might Like: Best Samsung phones for seniors
The Samsung Galaxy Watch6 offers far more than just a big, bright screen. From the settings menu, I could easily access accessibility features for vision, hearing, and text-to-speech functionality. I could use the built-in voice assistant to read aloud the current time, notifications, my text messages, and on-screen menu items. This feature is very useful for those who have difficulty seeing small icons or text on a smartwatch. As an added bonus, the Galaxy Watch6 has a zoom feature that can be enabled in the settings and activated by triple-tapping anywhere on the screen. If that weren’t enough, this watch even has a setting to tell you the time via vibrations! I found this quite unique.
» Learn More: Smartphone apps and resources for people with vision loss
Like the Apple Watch Series 10, the Samsung Galaxy Watch6 has built-in fall detection. This watch doesn’t contact emergency services by default. Instead, it will automatically text your preselected emergency contacts if it detects a hard fall and you don’t respond for 10 seconds. I set multiple emergency contacts and had the Galaxy Watch6 automatically share my location and send a text asking for help. Even if you don’t fall, you can still contact emergency services manually by swiping right on the SOS icon.
Pros & Cons:Pros About Samsung Galaxy Watch 6
- Built-in fall detection
- Emergency service SOS feature
- Large, bright screen
- Voice assistant
- Heart rate tracking
- Simple design
- Talk and text capabilities
- Long battery life
Cons About Samsung Galaxy Watch 6
- No dedicated emergency response center
- Fall detection depends on emergency contacts
- Vision accessibility features have a learning curve
Our Hands-on Experience:Senior-Friendly Features
During testing, I felt the Samsung Galaxy Watch6 was easier to use than the Apple Watch Series 10. This was partly because the watch features a back button, a power button, a rotating bezel for menu navigation, and a standard touch screen. I had very few issues selecting different apps, checking out the health monitoring features, or sending and receiving texts.
However, getting used to the vision accessibility features was a bit more complicated. Once they were enabled, I struggled to get the swiping right. I sometimes couldn’t understand the voice assistant’s speech, as it can read through menu items very quickly at times. The Galaxy Watch6 is still pretty easy to use for an advanced smartwatch. Just keep in mind that its features for those with hearing or vision loss come with a learning curve.
Pricing
While the Samsung Galaxy Watch6 is an advanced smartwatch like the Apple Watch Series 9, it’s significantly cheaper at just $299.99. This means the Samsung Galaxy Watch6 is more expensive than traditional medical alert watches. That’s particularly true with the WellBe Medical Alert Watch. Still, it is more affordable than comparable “high-end” smartwatches. It’s worth noting the Samsung Galaxy Watch6 Classic, which comes in sizes as large as 47 millimeters, starts around $449.99. I appreciate these options for various budgets.
Who Is the Samsung Galaxy Watch6 Best For?
- Seniors who are accustomed to Android devices
- Older adults who want an advanced smartwatch that doubles as a medical alert device
- Older adults with vision loss who require enhanced accessibility features
*Average response time for 911 emergency assistance requests.1
What Is a Medical Alert Watch?
In the last few decades, watches have evolved from simple timepieces to multiuse gadgets. Along with telling time, they can provide invaluable information about your health and help you stay protected during a medical emergency.
Medical alert watches come in many styles, but they're all designed to look like a regular watch with enhanced medical alert features
Many top medical alert companies have branded these devices as “medical alert watches.” Medical alert watch features vary from model to model. Some of the most common features include GPS technology, emergency help buttons, step or vitals tracking, fall detection, and the ability to communicate with others through the watch. Some watches, such as the Apple Watch Series 10 or Samsung Galaxy Watch6, also double as handy communication tools. You can even sync them with your smartphone. That’s always convenient! Despite all the fancy-schmancy features, a medical alert watch’s primary goal is ensuring your safety and well-being.
If you’re currently debating whether your loved one needs a medical alert watch or a different kind of medical alert system altogether, here are a few pros and cons of medical alert watches to consider:
Pros About Medical Alert Watches
- Discreet and designed for comfort
- GPS location tracking
- Can make it easier to communicate with caregivers
- More advanced tech than conventional medical alert systems
- Ideal for active seniors
- Water-resistant designs
- Often features built-in fall detection
- May come with heart monitoring, step tracking, and other health features
- Can range from basic watches to advanced smartwatches
- Never requires a landline
Cons About Medical Alert Watches
- Typically more expensive than conventional medical alert systems
- Some watches don’t have 24/7 monitoring centers
- Fall detection tends to be less accurate than devices worn around the neck
- May come with a learning curve for seniors who aren’t tech-savvy
- Needs to be charged every day
How Much Do Medical Alert Watches Cost?
Prices vary based on the type of medical alert watch you choose. If you want a watch that can detect falls, track your location, and alert an emergency response agent, you’ll pay at least $150 for the device itself. Most devices require a subscription fee for monitoring services, which can range from about $30 to $40 per month. Some providers charge extra for fall detection, which has an average cost of $10 per month.
Alternatively, advanced smartwatches that double as a medical alert watch tend to have a higher up-front price — ranging between $300 and $450 or more. The Apple Watch Series 10, for example, retails for $399.99, but that doesn’t include the cost of an emergency response subscription or a cellular plan. Since many modern smartwatches have built-in fall detection, GPS tracking, and emergency response features, you may not need to pay for 24/7 monitoring. However, you’ll need to pay for a compatible cellular plan so your smartwatch can connect you to loved ones or 911 during an emergency.
Do I Need a Medical Alert Watch?
The medical alert device industry is set to be worth $9.6 billion by 2025.4 Given all the features available, like fall detection, 24/7 monitoring, GPS, and caregiver tracking, it’s no surprise that they have become so popular. Plus, medical alert watches provided added peace of mind for users and their loved ones. So, is a medical alert watch right for you?
Regardless of age, all of us can be susceptible to health problems. Medical alert watches are beneficial for those with existing health conditions, especially those who want to remain active as they age. Wearing a medical alert watch can offer you more independence, and can give you the confidence to go about your regular activities knowing you can call for help with a simple press of a button.
Did You Know? Veterans may be able to get substantial discounts on medical alert systems and devices. Check out our guide to the best medical alert systems for veterans.
Plus, medical alert watches are a lot less clunky and obvious than traditional medical alert systems. So if you’re looking for protection that doesn’t cramp your style, an alert watch is a great choice! The health features, including step tracking and vital monitoring, can help you stay active and on track for fitness goals, which are oh-so-important as we age. If you’re worried about your health or just want reassurance that you can access medical assistance if you need it, a medical alert watch is a great investment.
A Buyer’s Guide to Purchasing a Medical Alert Watch
With the medical alert watch market expanding at a record pace, there are various models to choose from. Some can even show text messages and remind you of appointments, or help you stay connected with loved ones. You should prioritize health and safety features, but here are a few other things to look for when buying a medical alert watch.
Automatic Fall Detection
Sadly, an older adult dies from a fall every 20 minutes.5 So, it’s important that the watch you choose can detect a fall, especially if you’re prone to them. The watch should link to a specific contact, 911, or an emergency monitoring center. Keep in mind that not all medical alert watches come with automatic fall detection. If you’re more prone to falls due to chronic health conditions, mobility issues, or even just the layout of your house, we’d recommend considering a watch with built-in fall detection.
GPS and Cellular Technology
For your watch to work properly at home and on the go, it needs built-in GPS and cellular technology. During an emergency, you’ll be able to call for help no matter your location. Even if you don’t know where you are, help can be sent straight to you.
Pro Tip: Do you want a medical alert system that doesn’t require a landline? Check out our guide to the best cellular medical alert systems.
It’s also a useful feature for family members and caregivers who want to check in and see where you are. This is particularly important for active seniors who exercise and take trips away from their homes.
Battery Life
The one downside of a digital watch versus a traditional one is that the battery life will be far shorter. Look for a watch that’s easy to charge and has a solid battery life. Or consider a watch that allows you to disable unnecessary features to conserve battery life. The last thing you want is to be walking around with a dead watch. I’d recommend a watch that holds a charge for at least a full day (18 to 24 hours). That way, you can charge your watch every night before bed. Getting into a daily charging routine will make it easier to remember.
FYI: If your loved one is struggling with memory loss, it could be harder for them to use certain devices. Check out our guide to find the best medical alert systems for dementia.
Testing out Medical Guardian's MGMove and its charger
Water-Resistant Design
Medical alert watches are usually waterproof or water-resistant, which offers peace of mind while showering, as bathrooms pose a major slipping hazard for seniors. This is also great for active seniors who swim or those who spend a lot of time outside in rainy areas.
Frequently Asked Questions About Medical Alert Watches
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Are medical alert watches complicated to use?
Depending on your technical ability, everyone will have a different definition of what’s complicated. However, if the complexity is something you are concerned about, opt for a simplistic model such as the QMedic device. Additionally, most medical alert watches will have video tutorials and a helpline if you run into a problem.
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I’m worried about my elderly parents. Should I buy them a medical alert watch?
Absolutely, and the good thing about a medical alert watch is that they come in so many different styles. While a medical alert watch can’t prevent a fall or medical emergency, it will ensure help arrives promptly. So, if you are worried about your parents or any other elderly family member, it’s worth getting them one.
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Is it better to wear a medical alert watch or a lanyard?
It depends on how you intend to use it. A watch is worn on the wrist so it looks a lot sleeker, but it might not be as practical to wear in the shower as a lanyard would be. If you are stuck trying to decide, the Lively Wearable2 offers the best of both worlds with both a lanyard and wristwatch option.
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Who will be alerted if I have a fall?
Every medical alert watch operates differently. However, the majority are linked to a 24/7 monitoring center or 911. Sometimes medical alert watches are also linked to caregivers, family members, or specific helplines. For example, Lively offers many different services over the phone that can even help you with a flat tire, in addition to medical emergencies.
National Fire Protection Association (2023). How Long Does It Take for your 911 Call to Be Answered?
National Institutes of Health. (2016). Visual impairment, blindness cases in U.S. expected to double by 2050.
Tom’s Guide. (2023). I'm testing the Galaxy S23 — and the display blows everything else away.
Research and Markets. (2021). Medical Alert Systems Market with COVID-19 Impact Analysis.
Centers for Disease Control. (2017). Every 20 minutes an older adult dies from a fall in the United States.
National Fire Protection Association (2023). How long does it take for your 911 call to be answered?