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Lifeline Medical Alert System Review 2023

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SeniorLiving.org Rating:
4.0 of 5
Are you sure Philips Lifeline is right for you?
$29.95/mo. Starts At
20 sec. Average Response Time
30-Day Full Refund Guarantee
AT&T Cellular Network

SeniorLiving.org is compensated when you click on the provider links listed on this page. This compensation does not impact our ratings or reviews.

SeniorLiving.org Rating:
4.0 of 5
Are you sure Philips Lifeline is right for you?

Did you know that Lifeline was the first company to market a medical alert system in North America nearly 50 years ago? Fast forward to today, and Lifeline continues to be an industry leader with a complete line of medical alert systems, from the HomeSafe Standard for in-home use to the On the Go, an all-in-one wearable system designed for active older adults.

I ordered both the HomeSafe Standard and On the Go devices to give them a test-drive. If you decide on the most basic choice, the HomeSafe Standard, you’ll want to conduct a range test to make sure it covers every room in the house and any areas directly outside the home, such as the front porch or garage. I found that both products were easy to set up and even easier to use. These are high-quality medical alert systems from a company with decades of experience.

Pro Tip:

Pro Tip: While Lifeline offers reliable systems, there are several other providers that offer more variety and bang for your buck. Want to find out which providers offer the best value? Check out our list of the best medical alert systems.

Pros About Lifeline

  • Trusted industry name: Because Lifeline has been around for nearly half a century, they’re a name in the industry you can trust.
  • Lifeline Cares app: Lifeline offers an app called Lifeline Cares that lets you build a care circle of friends and family you want to keep in the loop. It also allows you to personalize call responses during an emergency to meet your needs.
  • Auto equipment replacement: When the battery in your help pendant runs low, it sends an alert to Lifeline, and the company automatically sends you a new replacement.
  • Professional installation offered: Alert systems are designed to be easy to install, but I like that Lifeline still offers a professional installation option. Sometimes, it’s good to get a walkthrough of the system by a representative. MobileHelp's packages and Medical Guardian's systems don’t have this option, so I appreciate that they give users a choice.

Cons About Lifeline

  • Great value, but not the least expensive: Lifeline’s lowest-priced option, HomeSafe Standard, is $5 higher than the entry-level pricing for Bay Alarm Medical systems. If you’re comfortable paying a bit more per month than the industry average, Lifeline’s systems are high quality, simple, and reliable.
  • Activation and installation fees: Startup costs are involved. If you’d like to consider a system without any extra fees, consider providers we've reviewed like Aloe Care Health.
  • Uses AT&T service: Lifeline cellular and mobile systems use AT&T’s network, so you’ll need to have strong AT&T service if you want a cellular system. If you’re looking for a Verizon-based system, check out our Lively medical alert review.
  • Limited product lineup: If you want a system designed for simplicity and ease of use, Lifeline has several great options. However, if you’re looking for a smartwatch, an in-car system, or advanced features like activity sensors, just know that Lifeline doesn’t offer these options. Medical Guardian has a discrete, stylish smartwatch if you’re set on that option. Check out our Medical Guardian review for a closer look.

Is Lifeline Right for Me?

Lifeline is a trusted name in the medical alert industry with a long history of protecting seniors. However, these systems don’t offer the latest technology, and they aren’t as sleek as some of the other options on the market. Plus, they can get pricey. Check out our top picks for medical alert systems below to compare your options.

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Overview of Lifeline

The Buying Experience

I highly recommend calling customer service to place your order. Lifeline’ website has a lot of information, but it’s helpful to talk through your specific situation with an expert, since unnecessary add-ons can add up. Inquire about seasonal discounts, and tell the service representative exactly when and where you’ll need protection (in the yard, basement, grocery store, etc.).

Buyer’s Tips:

Buyer’s Tips: Call the company and ask if there are any fees they can take off your bill. You’d be surprised how far a quick call and a polite attitude will take you. Lifeline often waives the $50 activation fee and $24.95 shipping fee for new customers.

Lifeline also has an online chat feature on the website. I tried this feature to ask about additional fees. All I had to do was click on the black and blue circle on the bottom right of the screen, and I was connected with a representative in a few seconds!

Click the chat box icon on Lifeline's website to talk with a representative

Click the chat box icon on Lifeline's website to talk with a representative

Setting up My Systems

HomeSafe Standard

To set up the HomeSafe Standard, I plugged the base station into a power outlet and a phone jack and waited for the light to come on. Then I pressed the button on my pendant, and the base station beeped loudly and said it was connecting to the response center. During my test, the base station repeated this message every few seconds until an agent picked up and asked if I needed help. I said that I was testing the system. The agent acknowledged my answer, then he ended the call, and that was it! It’s important to walk to each room of the house to see if the pendant is in range of the base station. To do this, just hold down the reset button on the base station and release it to go into test mode. Then, you’ll have four minutes to walk around the house and press the pendant button to make sure the base station receives the signal.

FYI:

FYI: If you have any concerns about DIY setup, Lifeline provides a professional installation option, including an in-house visit that lasts about two hours and costs $99. There is a $19.95 self-installation fee if you install the HomeSafe Standard on your own.

This system also comes in a cellular model, so if you don’t have a landline connection, you can still use a HomeSafe Standard. Just keep in mind that the cellular system runs on AT&T’s network, so you’ll need an AT&T signal where you live for the system to work. Otherwise, it should function the same.

On the Go

On the Go comes with a mobile pendant, charger, and manual. I simply plugged in the charger, set the pendant on it, and waited until the pendant light turned from flashing green (charging in progress) to solid green (fully charged). From there, I pressed the mobile help button to get connected to Lifeline 24/7 response center. They picked up in about 15 seconds and confirmed I was OK. The system was fully activated and ready to go. You don’t need to do a range test with the On the Go, although you should walk through your house, yard, or garage, where you have concerns about cell coverage, and see if you can place a test call.

Contracts and Warranty

Lifeline offers all of its systems on a month-to-month basis, which means you can cancel your service at any time without penalty. There is an automatic payment option available. By filling out a form, you can have Lifeline directly debit your bank account each month.

Lifeline has a 30-day, full-refund guarantee, which I appreciate. They provide a one-year warranty for the On the Go system, covering normal wear and tear, which is on the shorter end of included warranties for the industry (Bay Alarm has a lifetime warranty for certain products). Simply register your device after you receive it to activate the warranty.

Lifeline Systems at a Glance

Name Price Key features Type of system Additional fees
HomeSafe Standard landline model $29.95 per month – In-home system with 24/7 professional monitoring
– Waterproof pendant
– Two-way feature for in-home communicator
Landline – $50 one-time activation fee
– $24.95 self-installation fee or $99 Technician installation
HomeSafe Standard cellular model $43.95 per month – In-home option with 24/7 monitoring
– Runs on AT&T cellular network
– Waterproof pendant
– Two-way talk via in-home communicator
Cellular – $50 one-time activation fee
– $24.95 self-installation fee or $99 technician Installation
HomeSafe with AutoAlert landline model $44.95 per month – For in-home use with 24/7 monitoring
– Comes with waterproof fall detection pendant
– Two-way talk feature
Landline – $50 one-time activation fee
– $24.95 self-installation fee or $99 technician installation
HomeSafe with AutoAlert cellular model $58.95 per month – In-home option offering 24/7 monitoring
– Runs on AT&T network
– Two-way communication
– Comes with waterproof fall detection pendant
Cellular – $50 one-time activation fee
– $24.95 self-installation fee or $99 technician installation
On the Go $49.95 per month – All-in-one mobile system for on-the-go protection
– 24/7 professional monitoring
– Runs on AT&T network and GPS technology
– Two-way talk feature
– Waterproof, wearable system
Cellular $24.95 self-installation fee or $99 technician installation

Lifeline System and Product Details

HomeSafe Standard

Cost

The HomeSafe Standard landline model is for in-home use and is ideal for older adults on a budget, as it’s the cheapest system Lifeline offers, starting at $29.95 per month. It functions well in a small, one-story home. You’ll want to conduct a range test if you own a larger home, or consider a $10 monthly add-on called Voice Extension Communicator, which acts as a separate base station. For an additional $15, you can upgrade to HomeSafe with AutoAlert, which adds automatic fall detection. This feature is best for older adults who have a high risk of falling.

Quick Tip:

Quick Tip: Lifeline’s HomeSafe with AutoAlert models come with all of the same features and functions as the HomeSafe Standard systems. The only difference is that the AutoAlert systems include automatic fall detection, while the Standard models don’t.

The system also comes in a cellular option, which costs $14 more per month. Thinking of adding fall detection and getting the HomeSafe Standard Cellular system? You’ll actually pay more for this configuration than with the On the Go (covered below), so unless you have this more basic landline use case, look closely at the On the Go to save every month.

Testing Our Lifeline Equipment

Testing Our Lifeline Equipment

Equipment

Out of the box, the system comes with a base station that acts as a communicator to the Lifeline emergency response center and a wearable, waterproof pendant or wristband (your choice!). The pendant itself is lightweight and about the size of a half-dollar. If you ever need help, simply press the button on your pendant or wristband. You’ll then be connected to Lifeline’s emergency response center through the base station. Easy peasy!

Service and Monitoring

HomeSafe Standard is Lifeline’s product for at-home use, and you can choose between a cellular or landline connection. If you’re more of a homebody, we’d recommend this system. You can add automatic fall detection for an additional fee. This feature triggers an emergency call if your pendant’s sensor detects movements consistent with a fall. You also have access to the Lifeline Cares mobile app with this system. This app is great for caregivers or family members who want to stay in the loop about your well-being, as it lets them check on the status of your system and send notes between users.

On the Go

Cost

On the Go is an all-in-one help button that starts at $49.95 per month. Lifeline also charges a $99 device fee for this on-the-go system, and then you choose between a $24.95 self-installation fee (recommended for most) or a $99 professional installation fee. The On the Go device offers the best value and versatility of all the Lifeline systems. It’s cheaper than the HomeSafe with AutoAlert cellular model, and, unlike that system, you can wear it at home or out and about. Plus, automatic fall detection is included, a big bonus to me!

Testing the Lifeline GoSafe 2 Neck Pendant

Testing the Lifeline GoSafe 2 Neck Pendant

Equipment

On the Go is a small mobile unit with a help button, two-way talk feature, and built-in fall detection. It comes with a mobile pendant, charger, and manual. I think the On the Go mobile device is an excellent system for active older adults. You can wear it while shopping, taking a walk, or grabbing lunch with friends. This is the only Lifeline system that can be used on the go, meaning it’s the best option for active seniors who leave the house regularly. It’s an all-in-one wearable system, so just throw it on like a necklace, and you’re set. The pendant is lightweight, and it’s one of the smaller all-in-one systems I’ve seen in the industry. You could easily tuck it into a sweater or pocket, and no one would even know you were wearing it!

Service and Monitoring

On the Go works wherever there is reliable AT&T service throughout the continental United States. The system comes with GPS and cellular technology, so help will be sent straight to you no matter where you are – all you have to do is press the pendant’s help button! I also like that this system comes with automatic fall detection. No matter where you are, you can rest easy knowing On the Go will detect a fall and send help, even if you can’t press your help button. This mobile system includes access to the Lifeline Cares mobile app.

Add-on Features and Accessories

HomeSafe With AutoAlert

This system comes with built-in fall detection, which will automatically contact Lifeline's emergency center if the pendant’s sensors detect a fall. You can upgrade to this model from the HomeSafe Standard systems for an extra $15 per month.

Voice Extension Communicator

For larger homes, this optional add-on for the HomeSafe package ensures the system’s signal extends throughout your house. An extra Lifeline Communicator base station costs $10 per month. I’d recommend this for medium to large homes, as the coverage area for landline systems is around 400 feet and only 200 feet for cellular systems. You can call a representative for advice if you’re unsure. If you’d like to compare this coverage to a system with a longer range for its base station, consider our Alert1 review (up to 600 feet).

Key Lockbox

Opting to add a key lockbox to your system gives first responders quick and easy access to your home. If you’re not able to get to the door during an emergency, first responders will have to knock the front door down. You’ll have to deal with the mess and pay for a new front door, which is just a hassle. The one-time device fee is $29.95 at checkout.

The Bottom Line on Lifeline

Overall, Lifeline offers easy-to-use, reliable alert systems.They’re great for those who want a no-brainer system with no frills attached. As for which Lifeline product to choose, I prefer the On the Go, as you can use it anywhere at home or on the go, and it’s incredibly easy to set up, maintain, and use in an emergency.

If you’re on a tight budget, the HomeSafe Standard system is the cheapest option and offers high-quality at-home protection. Once the product arrives, be sure to test the unit at home for coverage. If you don’t feel comfortable doing so on your own, go with the professional installation option.

All of my interactions with Lifeline employees, including their customer service team, the Lifeline Chat, and the response center, were very positive. Lifeline also received an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau,1 a big plus in my book. According to Lifeline Lifeline, many of their team members have been with the company for over 25 years, which says a lot about the quality of service and how the company treats its employees.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lifeline

  • How much does Lifeline cost per month?

    Lifeline alert systems start at a monthly cost of $29.95, and they range up to $58.95 per month for certain packages.

  • What is the return policy for Lifeline?

    You can return your Lifeline system within 30 days of purchase for a full refund. None of the alert systems require a contract, so you can also cancel your service and return your Lifeline equipment at any time.

  • Is Lifeline waterproof?

    Yes, all of the Lifeline help pendants are waterproof, so they can be worn in places like the shower, bath, or pool.

  • Does Lifeline need a landline?

    Some Lifeline alert systems need a landline to connect to the monitoring station. However, some of the company’s systems run on an AT&T cellular connection, so it depends on the package that you choose.

Citations
  1. Better Business Bureau (BBB). (June 2020). Lifeline BBB Profile.

Reviewed By

Linda Schlenker

Fall Prevention & Senior Safety Expert

Linda earned her Master’s degree in Occupational Therapy from Tufts University and has assisted 10,000+ seniors throughout her 25-year career. She specializes in home health care and fall prevention for seniors and has nearly three decades of experience recommending medical… Learn More About Linda Schlenker
Written By

Jeff Hoyt

Editor in Chief

As Editor-in-Chief of the personal finance site MoneyTips.com, Jeff produced hundreds of articles on the subject of retirement, including preventing identity theft, minimizing taxes, investing successfully, preparing for retirement medical costs, protecting your credit score, and making your money last… Learn More About Jeff Hoyt