Top 7 Best Medical Alert Systems with GPS of 2021 (Pricing & Features)
Having so much information and so many medical alert systems with GPS, it can get overwhelming. To help with this, here is all the information summarized and broken down into categories so that choosing which device to use is easier than ever.
Provider | Total Score | Price | Activation Fee | BBB Rating | DIY instal | Trial Period | Warranty | Fall Detection | Waterproof | Long-term Contract | Mobile Network | Mobile App | Refund | Battery Life | Geofencing |
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ADT Medical | 9.8 | $37.99 | No | B+ | No | 30 days | Lifetime | Yes | Yes | No | AT&T | Yes | No | 12 – 20 hours | Yes |
MobileHelp | 9.7 | $37.95 | $49.95 | A+ | No | 30 days | No | Yes | Yes | No | AT&T | Yes | Yes | 5 years | No |
Mobile Guardian | 9.6 | $39.95 | $0 – $99 | A+ | No | 30 days | Lifetime | Yes | Yes | No | AT&T | Yes | Yes | 5 years | No |
GreatCall | 9.6 | $24.99 | $35 | A+ | No | 30 days | 1 year | Yes | No | No | Verizon | Yes | Yes | 36 hours | No |
Bay Alarm | 9.6 | $29.95 | No | A+ | No | 30 days | 1 year | Yes | No | No | AT&T | Yes | Yes | 72 hours | Yes |
Philips Lifeline | 9.5 | $29.95 | $99.95 | A+ | Yes | No | 1 year | Yes | Yes | No | AT&T | Yes | Yes | 7 days | No |
Life Alert | 9.4 | $89.85 | $0 – $95 | A+ | No | No | Lifetime | Yes | Yes | Yes | AT&T | Yes | Yes | 10 years | No |
Features of Mobile Medical Alert Systems
When buying one of these medical alert systems with GPS, there are some things that one has to take into account. To make sure that the device has all the necessary features, here are the most important ones.
24/7 Emergency Response
Every center mentioned here is available in case of an emergency all day, at any time of the year. This includes holidays like Christmas or New Year. In this way, users will always receive the service they need no matter what.
Water Resistance
These response devices have to be used all day, even when it rains or one takes a shower at home. So, having some kind of protection against water is essential. Most devices are at least water-resistant, which means that they can resist getting wet.
But many also have waterproof technology, so they can be submerged in water. This is particularly handy if one slips when taking a bath.
GPS Location Services
This feature is very much appreciated when the user goes out. It has many applications. First, if there is an emergency, with just the press of a button, the operators will know where the user is and will be able to send help. But this is also useful because carers will be able to keep an eye on their loved ones and know where they are at all times.
Extended Battery Life
This feature comes in handy for those who often forget to power up their devices. While some brands offer devices with meager 20-hour battery life, some others make it last up to 10 years. This will depend in part on the capacity of the battery, but also on how many features the device has and how power-consuming they are.
Fall Detection
This is a premium feature that users can decide to include in their packages if they want. Practically no company includes it in their plans. It is always extra.
It usually costs between $5 and $10 more.
But for some brands, this is more. All in all, if the device is being used by a senior who has difficulty walking, this may come in handy.
Cellular Monitoring
Most brands have teamed up with a mobile network provider so that users can communicate with the emergency team from any place in case anything happens. Most companies work with AT&T, though it is also possible to find some that partner with Verizon.
Nationwide Coverage
To ensure maximum protection, these brands cover all 50 states. In this way, if the family moves, there is no need to change the system that the user already knows how to use. They can go to any other place in the country and still be protected.
Easy Set-Up
Most providers offer only a pro setup. So, with just one call, a technician will come and do all the work. There are some that also offer DIY installation. Their devices have been simplified so that this is not hard to do.
When choosing a company with the pro option, beware of the installation fees.
Long Range
To be truly mobile, medical alert systems with GPS have to have a long working range. In this way, if the user walks far away from the base and has an emergency, he can still get help. In most cases, short ranges are not useful, but if the user never walks too far away then they could work well too.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What Is the Best Mobile Alert System for Seniors?
This will depend on each user’s needs and expectations. All the ones mentioned here are the top medical alert systems of 2021, so all of them will offer a good user experience. When choosing which one to buy, make sure to analyze in detail their features. The best mobile medical alert systems usually include a 30-day trial period and pro setup.
Also, try to find a system that is completely waterproof so that it can be used under any circumstance. Make sure that it has good battery life. In this way, seniors are not likely to be without protection just because the device has not been charged.
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What Medical Alert System Does AARP Recommend?
AARP does not recommend a single system. They mention a few that are among the best. These are Life Alert, Philips Lifeline, Medical Alert, Alert1, and ADT Companion. Still, bear in mind that they are only suggestions. AARP says clearly that each system could be the best for different users.
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Are There Any Medical Alert Systems Covered by Medicare?
Original Medicare does not cover any type of system. To get this type of coverage, the only option is having a Medicare Advantage Plan. This is to say that the benefits come from a private plan. Yet, bear in mind that they cover only a few medical alert systems and they do so from time to time. To make sure if this is possible and see which type of benefits one can get, contact the carrier directly and ask for details.
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Can You Get Life Alert for Free?
The answer is yes and no. It is possible to get the equipment free of charge, but this will require that the user pays for a monthly plan. So, in the end, some type of payment is necessary. Having these devices for free will also mean that some type of contract will be put in place so that the price of the devices is covered at the end of the contract.
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How Can I Get a Free Medical Alert Bracelet?
The best way to do this is by getting in touch with the local hospital and asking them if they have any free medical bracelet. Sometimes they do. But if this is not the case, they may know some medical organizations in the area that do. Or they may give some advice on how to get one. Asking one’s doctor could also help.
A Great Alternative for Seniors
A mobile alert system is a great alternative to nursing homes. In this way, the elderly can still retain some independence and get instant help in case of an emergency. To have the best experience possible, read carefully what each feature does and pick the most appropriate ones for the situation. With this in mind, choose the best system. Fortunately, there are many options to choose from in 2021.