Best Medical Alert Systems with GPS Guide & Reviews of 2021

When one becomes older and finds it hard to live alone at home, he is faced with a few options. Some decide to go to a nursing home. But many people loathe this idea. And good institutions are really expensive. So, many seniors choose to hire a response system to help them in case of an emergency. To know which are the best medical alert systems with GPS in 2021, read on.

Natalie Mitchell - Editorial Staff

Updated: March 2, 2021

What We Did to Find the Best

As we wanted to find out which are the top medical alert systems with GPS available in 2021, we researched which ones previous users like the most. Once we found the most liked services, we dug deeper to see why this was so. We analyzed our findings with our 5 metrics. Every system got a score from 0 to 10 in each of them. Then, we averaged all the marks to get an overall score.

  • Features

    0-10

    monitoring period, 24/7 alerts, disaster protection etc.

  • Support

    0-10

    telephone, email, chat, and other channels

  • Price

    0-10

    monthly fee, money-back, trial period

  • Ease of Use

    0-10

    installation, maintenance, service support

  • Trust Score

    0-10

    BBB.org and Trustpilot (positive, negative reviews)

To ensure maximum accuracy, we looked for reviews on different medical alert systems, and we focused only on the ones written by real users. We ignored paid comments or sponsored texts.

1. ADT Medical Alert: The Best-Known Option

Total Score 9.8/10

ADT Main Medical
Adt Medical Alert
Adt Medical Alert Plus
  • Features10/10
  • Equipment10/10
  • Price10/10
  • Ease Of Use9.5/10
  • Trust Score9.5/10

Starting Price

$37.99

Visit Website
BBB Rating A+
Best for Quality Demanding Users

DIY instal

NO

Trial Period

30 days

This brand is one of the most popular when it comes to home security. And now they have decided to expand to the medical alert systems with GPS market too. Currently, they only list one tracking device with this technology in their catalog. And it is super simple to use. What is more, it works on the AT&T network, so it has active nationwide coverage.

The alarm pendant is totally waterproof and is prepared for two-way communication in case of an emergency. It does not come with fall detection technology out of the box, but it is possible to get it for those who want it. It includes a GPS tracker to keep an eye on the location of the elderly and to be able to send them help when they are out and about.

Pros:

  • Response within 20 seconds
  • 2-year battery life
  • In-house operating centers
  • Home temperature monitoring
  • Price does not change
  • Next-day delivery
  • Discounts available

Cons:

  • No activity monitoring
  • Range of 100 feet
  • No automatic testing

ADT does not charge any type of activation fee, but their plans are rather pricey in contrast with the competition. Their only plan costs $37.99 per month, which can be upgraded to include fall detection for $10 monthly. Their operators are located in different spots across the US and are available at all times, every day.

After ordering their device, clients can expect it to arrive on the following day. And those who prefer to pay in advance can access annual and quarterly pricing options, which include discounts.

On the negative side, this device is not truly mobile, as it has to be within 100 feet from the base. And it is not really useful in the areas where AT&T is not strong. Yet, overall the service is worth trying out.


2. MobileHelp: Be Safe and Healthy

Total Score 9.7/10

Mobile Help Main
Mobile Help Complete Protection
Mobile Help On The Go
  • Features9.5/10
  • Equipment10/10
  • Price10/10
  • Ease Of Use9.0/10
  • Trust Score10/10

Starting Price

$37.95

Visit Website
Best for Health-Conscious Users

DIY instal

NO

Trial Period

30 days

This mobile medical alert system was designed to help the elderly when they are at home and when they go out. For this, the MobileHelp team did its best to ensure that it was as light and user-friendly as possible. To make sure that it is accessible and that it works, the package includes a water-resistant neck pendant or wrist button so that users can ask for help with just one touch.

It comes with a GPS chip and connection to cellular networks all across the United States to make sure that no matter where the user lives or goes, he will be protected at all times inside and outside their home. Their monitoring team can help people from every state. And the good thing is that it does not require any type of mobile or landline phone plan to work.

Pros:

  • Waterproof equipment
  • Classifies alerts into 3 status
  • Mobile network compatible
  • No cellular contract required
  • MobileHelp Connect technology
  • Two options: pendant or wrist button
  • FDA Registered & FCC Certified

Cons:

  • Fall detection costs extra
  • Limited to areas covered by AT&T
  • Slow refunds

On top of this, the system also includes a unique feature: MobileHelp Connect. This function was designed to let the caretaker keep track of the user’s health. Plus, this tool can identify different situations and classify the alerts into system status, non-emergency, and emergency. Carers can also request to know the user’s current location at any time. Its exclusive services are one of the things that make this system special.

Those who are interested in using this system should bear in mind that it costs $37.95 per month, which can go up to $47.95 to include fall detection into the package. Those who want to see how it works before committing to a plan will be happy to know that there is a 30-day trial period available.


3. Mobile Guardian: Extra Loud for Better Communication

Total Score 9.6/10

Mobile Guardian Main
Mobile Guardian Education Pricing
  • Features9.0/10
  • Equipment10/10
  • Price10/10
  • Ease Of Use9.0/10
  • Trust Score10/10

Starting Price

$39.95

Visit Website
Best for Hearing-Impaired Users

DIY instal

NO

Trial Period

30 days

This system offers a portable medical device that works together with a wearable emergency button so that users can get in touch with the company if anything happens to them, no matter where they are. For this, with just the press of a button, users will be connected with the monitoring center that works 24/7. To do this, having a connection to a mobile phone network is essential.

The GPS tracker that is included within the device will help the team to reach the user and provide help no matter the location. Mobile Guardian partnered with AT&T to ensure that users can call the monitoring center from any place in the US at no extra cost.

Pros:

  • Range of 350 feet
  • USA-based monitoring centers
  • Adjustable volume
  • Extra-loud speaker
  • Fashion necklaces
  • 24-hour battery life
  • Equipment included in the plan

Cons:

  • Sales department calls too much
  • Activation may take some time
  • Cancellation may be difficult

The medical device comes with a super loudspeaker so that users can communicate with the operators even if they have a hearing difficulty. In this way, they will be able to follow instructions or give indications in case of an emergency without problems. Also, this device is totally waterproof, which is an industry-standard feature.

The tracking system is very simple. Just press the emergency button and make use of the two-way speaker to ask for help. One can get both emergency and non-emergency assistance at any time. When this happens, the team will send help at the location that the GPS tracker is at.

The response equipment is included in the plan, so clients only have to pay $39.95 per month. No extra costs should have to be covered.


4. GreatCall Lively Mobile: Get a Doctor on the Spot

Total Score 9.6/10

Great Call Main
Great Call Medical Phone
Great Call Medical Device
  • Features9.5/10
  • Equipment9.5/10
  • Price10/10
  • Ease Of Use9.0/10
  • Trust Score10/10

Starting Price

$24.99

Visit Website
Best for Seriously Sick Seniors

DIY instal

NO

Trial Period

30 days

This tool is great for seniors with medical conditions. This is so thanks to its main feature, the ability to call a doctor or licensed nurse on the spot from any place and at any time. In this way, if one is prone to needing to contact doctors, he can call them, describe his symptoms and get a diagnosis right away. It is even possible to ask them to prescribe some basic medicine over the phone. This is a unique feature in the market and one of the reasons why this vendor stands out from the crowd.

Of course, this tracking device also comes with a GPS chip to keep track of what the user is doing. Caretakers can check the location through GreatCall’s portal. There, they can also see if the device is on, how much battery it has, and when the alert button was used.

Pros:

  • Contact doctors on the spot
  • Get prescriptions at any time
  • Forget about getting appointments
  • Rated the most reliable network performance by IHS
  • Feature-packed portal
  • IAED-Certified agents
  • GreatCall Rides: A partnership with Lyft

Cons:

  • Not waterproof
  • A bit bulky
  • The battery doesn’t last much

The device can withstand some water, but it is not entirely waterproof. So, the user has to make sure that it does not get submerged into water. It works on Verizon, so it has coverage all across the US.

The tracking services have to be paid upfront and are not included in the plans. Clients have three options when choosing which package to hire. The basic one costs $24.99, the preferred one $29.99, and the ultimate one $39.99. The main difference lies in the features each includes, like fall detection. And those who want to get a feeling of what this brand has to offer before committing can make use of the company’s 30-day money-back guarantee.


5. Bay Alarm Medical Mobile with GPS: A Portable Solution

Total Score 9.8/10

Bay Main
Bay Medical Alert
Bay Medical Alert System
  • Features9.0/10
  • Equipment10/10
  • Price10/10
  • Ease Of Use9.0/10
  • Trust Score10/10

Starting Price

$29.95

BBB Rating A+
Best for Active Seniors

DIY instal

NO

Trial Period

30 days

Bay Medical Alarm not only offers a system with GPS technology, but it is also connected to AT&T’s mobile network 24/7 to make sure that the user is always protected wherever he goes. This is topped with a battery life that can last up to 72 hours with only one charge. In this way, there should be no worries about letting someone go out and fearing they get lost.

But if the user is taking too long to come back, the caregiver can check on his status thanks to the GPS tracker. They just have to access the GPS tracking portal to get live information on the current location of the user and his movement history. This can also be shared with the response center if necessary. Caretakers can also limit the areas within which users can be thanks to the geofencing feature. This means that as soon as they leave the specified area, like their home for example, the carer and the support center will get an alert via email or SMS with the current location

Pros:

  • Email and SMS alerts
  • Movement reports
  • Four call centers
  • Portable design
  • 72-hour battery
  • Connection to AT&T’s cellular networks
  • Geofencing

Cons:

  • In case of a refund, shipping is paid by the client
  • Shipping may take longer than expected
  • Customer service may be slow to solve technical problems

This system was designed with comfort and flexibility in mind, which is perfect for active users. It is super small and compact, and its weight has been reduced to the point that one forgets he is wearing it. Its most important feature is the button that puts the user in contact with one of Bay Medical Alarm’s call centers. And just to make sure, there are four of them, so that there are always representatives available at any time.

Those interested in purchasing this cellular system should bear in mind that it costs $29.95 per month. But it includes a risk-free trial, after which they can give a refund if the user is not satisfied with the service. The whole activation process is included for free too.


6. Philips Lifeline GoSafe: Premium Fall Detection at a Price

Total Score 9.5/10

Philips Life Main
Philips Lifeline Cares
Philips Lifeline About
  • Features9.0/10
  • Equipment9.0/10
  • Price10/10
  • Ease Of Use9.5/10
  • Trust Score10/10

Starting Price

$39.95

Visit Website
Best for Top Fall Detection

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

30 days

Philips is known for its great history of customer success. Most clients think of high-quality when it comes to Philips products. And this is no exception. Though it is priced in the higher end of the spectrum with its plans costing between $29.95 and $64.95 per month, the GoSafe does its job well. Its fall detection technology is among the best in the market, though it is a bit pricier than most competitors’.

One of the features that make this brand unique is that it allows clients to choose which operator they want to work with. So, if the user really hits it off with a specific representative, he can ask to be assigned to him so he is always available on the other side of the phone to help with whatever happens.

Pros:

  • Consumer Affairs accredited
  • Wi-Fi location
  • Personalized response plan
  • 7-day batteries
  • Audio beacon
  • No long-term contracts
  • In-home communicator

Cons:

  • Not UL certified
  • No smart features
  • No trial period

The devices are completely waterproof and the batteries work very well. They can work up to 7 days under a single charge, even if they are constantly connected to the mobile network.

Even though the plans are quite pricey, Philips does not ask for long-term contracts. So it is possible to use this equipment for as long as needed without having to worry about paying extra fees. When calculating costs, bear in mind that paying for the activation fee will be compulsory in most cases, unless there is a special offer at the moment.


7. Life Alert: Unbeatable Customer Care

Total Score 9.4/10

Life Alert Main
Life Alert Mobile
Life Alert Medical
  • Features10/10
  • Equipment9.0/10
  • Price9.0/10
  • Ease Of Use9.0/10
  • Trust Score10/10

Starting Price

$89.95

Best for Committed Users

DIY instal

NO

Trial Period

No

Being one of the oldest and best-known medical alert systems in the American market, Life Alert has many features that make it stand out. For instance, it has great battery life. Their devices do not need charging at all. Actually, the in-home call button can last up to 10 years on a single charge.

In addition, its customer service is one of the best-prepared teams in the field. They undergo thorough training on how to solve any type of problem their users may face. In spite of this, there are some aspects in which they could use some improvements. Such is the case of their catalog. Most other medical alert systems now offer more varied and advanced devices. Yet, Life Alert does the trick for those who are looking for something reliable.

Pros:

  • UL Certified Monitoring Center
  • The battery lasts up to 10 years
  • Back-up battery
  • In-house American centers
  • Nationwide coverage
  • 95% of customer satisfaction
  • 800 feet range

Cons:

  • Mandatory contract
  • Lacks sensors
  • No fall-protection available

One of the aspects that many clients do not like much about this company is that it is pretty much the only one that asks its customers to sign a 36-month contract. It is possible to end it, but only after certain circumstances like the user enters a nursing home or dies. Otherwise, users will have to pay the remaining months or face legal charges.

Life Alert works with AT&T, so make sure that this network works well in the area. Regarding pricing, the good news is that the equipment does not have to be paid upfront. It is included in the monthly fee. On the negative side, paying for the installation fee is mandatory, and there is no trial period. On top of this, the fee is quite high at $89.85.
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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
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.

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.

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.

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

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.


Editorial Staff

Natalie contributes her expertise by her professional writing and years working in editorial offices and with online publishers. Natalie is a true leader who has exceptional skills to be a team player. She excels at conducting research on robberies and thefts using open police data and is inspired by her husband’s work as a detective. With such interests, she continues to write excellent articles about security systems in general and Securing Home in particular.


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