Best Medical Alert Systems With No Monthly Fee Guide & Reviews of 2021

Millions of elderly people suffer injuries from home-related accidents each year. In 2021, the aging population is growing, so more individuals and families are going to need emergency alarm services and devices. Everyone stumbles from time to time, but for seniors, something like a trip could have disastrous results.

Fortunately, it’s not hard to find the best medical alert systems with no monthly fee, and they don’t have to cost an arm and a leg. Below are nine examples of the best medical alert system with no monthly fee

Jerry Carter - Editorial Staff

Updated: April 14, 2021

What We Did to Find the Best

Since there are more senior alarm devices in 2021 than ever before, it can be confusing to sort through the options. Our team of tech experts and researchers sifted through the different products out there to find the best medical alert system with no monthly fee.

We understand that families and caregivers need something free or low-cost yet reliable, and that’s not always easy to find. So, we considered the top five metrics and gave each a grade from 0-10. We repeated that process for each provider, finding the average value of the scores to get the final results.

  • 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)

Consumers can be sure that this review involved a lot of researching, analyzing, and weighing the pros and cons of each device. This way, seniors can get the alarm services they need sooner and for a better price.

1. MobileHelp: Versatility & Dependability

Total Score 9.6/10

Mobile Help Main
Mobile Help Complete Protection
Mobile Help On The Go
  • Features9.0/10
  • Equipment9.0/10
  • Price10/10
  • Ease Of Use10/10
  • Trust Score10/10

Starting Price

$49.95

Visit Website
Best for Disabilities

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

30 days

This company offers emergency home monitoring with no monthly fees as well as monitored options. Its equipment packages come in two versions: Classic and Solo. As the name suggests, it requires a wireless connection.

However, landline options are available for those who prefer it. This provider is trusted by leading security companies like ADT, giving it lots of clout in elderly care.

The lowest price offered is $49.95 and includes lots of top-tier functions that clients want. This includes GPS tracking, sturdy hardware, and a light-up LED display.

The company’s focus is on GPS satellite tracking, which is particularly convenient for families and caretakers that must watch over disabled loved ones or those with dementia. Also, this is one of the best medical alert systems with no monthly fee that can detect when a patient slips or takes a tumble.

In certain cases, this could be crucial and life-saving. The price tag of this equipment is very good, considering all of the functionalities that buyers get.

On the downside, there are limitations between wireless connectivity and landline service. Also, some of the plans require payments each month.


2. LogicMark Freedom Alert Emergency System: A Limitless Landline Option

Total Score 9.2/10

LogicMark Main
LogicMark About
LogicMark Solutions
  • Features9.0/10
  • Equipment9.0/10
  • Price8.0/10
  • Ease Of Use10/10
  • Trust Score10/10

Starting Price

$234.99

Visit Website
Best For Landline Users

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

No

Some 911 help systems with no monthly fees are landline-based. This Freedom model from LogicMark is one such example, but that doesn’t mean it limits customers to certain functions. Users can set up a customized call sequence and program in up to four different numbers of family or caregivers.

Plus, this model can make ordinary phone calls, too. Upon answering the phone, family members can forward the call to the police if necessary.

It offers dual communication through the pendant’s speaker and has convenient audio prompts to make set-up easier. It retails for $234.99 and comes with a one-year limited warranty.

Pros:

  • Continuous dialing
  • Convenient strap and clip
  • Customized call sequence
  • Decent range
  • Good ratings
  • Makes ordinary phone calls
  • Voice prompts

Cons:

  • A bit bulky
  • Automatic shut-off
  • Landline only

The Freedom model has a decent range of 600 feet, although it is a bit bulky as a necklace. It’s also landline only and comes with two rechargeable batteries that last about six months on a full charge. There is a 24-hour battery backup just in case of a power outage.

After one minute of inactivity, the necklace automatically powers off. Some might consider this a perk, but others might see it as a disadvantage because it’s hard to tell if the inactivity is due to a crisis.

On the other hand, the product continuously dials through the programmed list of relatives or caretakers until someone picks up, which is good.


3. Smart Caregiver Two Call Buttons & Wireless Caregiver Pager: A Nifty Little Solution

Total Score 9.1/10

Smart Caregiver Main
Smart Caregiver Trust
Smart Caregiver Product
  • Features8.0/10
  • Equipment9.0/10
  • Price10/10
  • Ease Of Use8.5/10
  • Trust Score10/10

Starting Price

$21

Visit Website
Best For Minimal Supervision

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

30 days

Some medical alert systems with no monthly fees increase the upfront charges, but not so with the Smart Caregiver system. At just $21, it’s an affordable solution for families that have elderly loved ones in the house.

Clients can place the pager in their pockets or mount it to the wall. The complete set comes with two call pendants for transmitting messages to the pager. As long as everything is within a 300-foot range, seniors can push the keypad on their necklace to signal their caregiver.

Pros:

  • Decent customer reviews
  • Easily wearable
  • Mounts onto walls
  • Super affordable
  • Standalone system
  • Two sound options
  • Wireless connectivity

Cons:

  • Lacks call/dial function
  • No fall detection
  • Smaller range

The pager and pendants are lightweight and come with a 90-day warranty. To start, simply put in the batteries and it’s ready to go. The equipment takes AA batteries and should last for up to 720 hours. This is a standalone system that uses a wireless signal.

Clients can choose from two audible sounds to let their caretakers know that they want assistance. That said, it lacks call/dial function, so users can’t call the police or a crisis contact person. This equipment is probably most suited to a relatively active older person who doesn’t need much supervision.

It’s worth noting that these Smart Caregiver products are sold via independent distributors, so refund policies vary. Most of them are only 30 days.


4. Secure SWCB-1 Wireless Remote Nurse Alert System: Keeps Everyone in the Loop

Total Score 9.0/10

Secure SWCB-1 Main
SWCB-1 SideBack
  • Features8.0/10
  • Equipment8.0/10
  • Price10/10
  • Ease Of Use9.0/10
  • Trust Score10/10

Starting Price

$15.99

Visit Website
Best For Disabled Seniors

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

30 days

The Secure SWCB-1 is a pager for the house, ideal for seniors who have nursing assistants that visit them regularly. Users can wear the receiver as a necklace or a watch. Alternatively, they can affix it to the wall or another mounted surface.

This medical alert system comes with 32 different ring tones and a range of 500 feet. Its manufacturer has been in business for nearly 30 years and specializes in elderly care products. At just $15.99, this is a product worth trying out. It’s sleek and small for easier transport and storage, and it’s expandable.

Clients can add up to eight call transmitters to keep their entire healthcare team or family in the loop.

Pros:

  • Affordable
  • Expandable system
  • False alarm reduction
  • Great for disabled seniors
  • Low battery indicator light
  • One-year full replacement warranty
  • Overwhelmingly positive customer reviews

Cons:

  • No fall detection
  • Short battery life
  • Small screen may be hard to read

This set is great for disabled seniors as well as those with hearing difficulties. Nurses and caretakers can choose from nine emergency sounds as well as various signal options. These include sound only, light only, and sound and light.

The transmitter has a low battery indicator light and digital codes to reduce false alarms. One challenge is that the small screen may be hard to read. Also, the product requires a CR2032 battery and has a relatively short life.

On the other hand, the one-year warranty covers full replacement, and there’s a 30-day return policy.


5. Assistive Technology Services Medical Alert System for Home Emergency: Rich in Customizable Functions

Total Score 9.0/10

Assistive Technology Main
Assistive Technology Select
  • Features9.0/10
  • Equipment8.0/10
  • Price8.0/10
  • Ease Of Use10/10
  • Trust Score10/10

Starting Price

$147.99

Visit Website
Best For Families

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

30 days

Assistive Technology has user-friendly alert systems that offer extra convenience, reliability, and peace of mind for clients. This particular model comes with a voice dialer phone and a wearable watch. Both have a panic button for added assurance and convenience.

Users can control the ringer volume and text display on the base station. Also, there is a talking caller ID and amplified speakerphone to accommodate those who are hard of hearing. The name of the caller also displays on the phone along with a clock display and a large, easy-to-read keypad.

The base station is wall mountable, which is good considering it has a range of just 150 feet

Pros:

  • Add up to 30 phone numbers
  • Battery backup (up to 12 hours)
  • Dual communication (via base station)
  • Forward calls to police
  • Makes ordinary phone calls
  • Speakerphone setting
  • Talking caller ID

Cons:

  • Can't make calls through the watch
  • Short-range (150 feet)
  • Strobe lights may negatively affect some patients

Users can program the equipment with up to 30 phone numbers for crises, and they can also make ordinary phone calls. Family members who answer a call can forward it to the police if necessary. On the other hand, users can dial the local authorities first instead of going through their contact list.

The dual communication is available through the base station only. In other words, if someone falls and tries to use their watch to call for assistance, they’ll be out of luck.

At $149, this is a pretty great deal, particularly for those who want multiple ER contact people or are hard of hearing.


6. Mace Alert 911: A Budget-Friendly Choice

Total Score 8.8/10

Mace Main
Mace Carry Confidence
Mace Alert 911
  • Features8.5/10
  • Equipment8.5/10
  • Price9.0/10
  • Ease Of Use10/10
  • Trust Score8.0/10

Starting Price

$89.99

Visit Website
Best For Battery Life

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

30 days

This help button device from the Mace brand comes in at just $89.99, making it an affordable choice for many consumers. Even though it’s not professionally monitored, this product makes it pretty easy to keep in touch with aging loved ones.

First of all, there is a one-touch direct connection to the police department. Moreover, a speaker on the pendant allows for dual communication. It uses a cellular connection, so seniors can use it virtually anywhere in the United States.

Plus, it doesn’t matter which cell provider they’re with, or if they don’t have a cell phone plan at all. The Mace equipment will still work without one.

Pros:

  • Affordabilit
  • Keypad protection shield
  • Lanyard and clip included
  • One-touch connection
  • Reliable cellular connection
  • Small and discreet
  • Works with any cell provider

Cons:

  • Lacks fall detection
  • Not programmable contact list
  • Only dials police

Even though this model uses a consistent cellular connection, it comes with batteries that will last up to one year before they require replacing. Also, users can attach the pendant to the included lanyard or clip for easier mobility.

They’ll also like that this necklace is small and discreet. It’s lightweight enough for elderly customers to bring it along with them without it becoming burdensome. Set-up is easy, and there’s a protection shield on the keypad to reduce the occurrence of false police calls.

On the downside, the product can dial the police and local authorities, but it can’t make regular phone calls. There’s not even a programmed contact list that users can customize.


7. CallToU Wireless Caregiver Pager: A Dependable Pager System

Total Score 8.8/10

CallToU Main
CallToU Caregiver Pager
CallToU Product
  • Features8.5/10
  • Equipment8.5/10
  • Price10/10
  • Ease Of Use9.0/10
  • Trust Score8.0/10

Starting Price

$38.99

Best For Nurses & Groups

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

No

One of the most affordable personal monitoring devices with no monthly fee is this one from CallToU. At under $40, it’s a steal. The product comes with two pagers and two remote transmitters, and the system is expandable. It’s great for seniors who are limited to the house or residences with more than one aging family member.

To get started, users simply plug in the transmitters, and they’re good to go. They have a 500-foot range, which isn’t ideal, but not terrible. The paging system means that seniors don’t have to yell to be heard by their caregivers, spouses, or nurses.

Moreover, CallToU offers other products and equipment for dementia patients, door and window protection, and more.

Pros:

  • Expandable system
  • Five-volume control
  • Inexpensive
  • LED indicator light
  • Plug-in and go
  • Two pagers and two remote transmitters
  • Waterproof

Cons:

  • Lacks dual communication
  • Limited range
  • No fall detection

While this equipment is inexpensive, it also lacks some functions that consumers would want. For instance, there is no fall detection or dual communication, which is a big turn-off. Shipping is free, but the company doesn’t allow refunds.

On the plus side, this pendant comes with five-volume control from zero to 110 decibels, an LED indicator light, and a neck strap. It’s waterproof so it can go in the bathroom for added assurance. A fixed bracket is included for hanging up on the wall.

The pagers have a relatively modern design and are small and lightweight. Users can choose from 55 ringtones, and the high-quality audio speaker ensures they hear everything


8. Guardian Alert 911 Phone: Lots of Options for a Great Price

Total Score 8.8/10

Guardian Main Review
Medical Guardian In Home
Medical Guardian On the Go
  • Features9.0/10
  • Equipment8.0/10
  • Price8.0/10
  • Ease Of Use9.0/10
  • Trust Score10/10

Starting Price

$149

Best For 911 Emergency Assistance

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

No

This is one of the most versatile personal monitoring systems thanks to its 600-foot range. At $149, it’s not the most affordable, but it’s also not super expensive. Installation takes a bit longer than others on this list, but it’s also a complete set.

Buyers will get a base station, 7-foot phone cord, duplex jack, AC adapter, lanyard, belt clip, and a AAA alkaline battery.

To use, seniors can press and hold the panic keypad for two seconds to activate the ER response. It will dial the police department and direct-connect the caller for dual communication.

Pros:

  • 600-foot range
  • Built-in battery backup
  • Direct connection with police
  • Dual communication
  • False alarm reduction
  • Great customer reviews
  • Voice confirmations

Cons:

  • Can't program in other numbers
  • Installation is more difficult than others
  • No fall detection

The pendant is small and light enough to carry around in a pocket, clip to a belt, or wear as a necklace. It’s splash-resistant, but not waterproof, so patients should be careful in the bathroom. After four minutes of inactivity, it goes into an auto-standby mode.

Also, the set is compatible with most landlines and voice-over IPs. Clients will hear voice confirmations for system check-ups and tests as well as when they call the police.

The recessed talk button eliminates false alarms, which is a huge advantage. On the downside, individuals can’t program in other numbers.


9. HELP DIALER 700 Emergency Alert Dialer: Suitable for Small Spaces & Budgets

Total Score 8.7/10

Help Dialer 700 Main
Help Dialer 700 Product
  • Features8.5/10
  • Equipment8.0/10
  • Price9.0/10
  • Ease Of Use8.0/10
  • Trust Score10/10

Starting Price

$99

Best For Apartments Affordability

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

30 days

This is one of those medical alert systems that are ideal for those who need something small and inexpensive, yet powerful. It has a 100-foot range, so it’s good for small living spaces. At $99, it’s perfect for limited budgets.

The set comes with a wristwatch and pendant, as well as the base station. The keypad intercom is wall-mountable for greater ease of use. Clients can program in up to three contact people and save a pre-recorded message for crises.

In case of a crisis, push the panic key, and it will automatically call the pre-programmed numbers. If the patient recorded a message, it would play for the recipient.

Pros:

  • Auto-dial
  • Dual communication
  • Inexpensive option
  • Positive customer reviews
  • Pre-recorded messages
  • Waterproof
  • Works with all phone service providers

Cons:

  • Audio quality could be better
  • Limited range
  • No fall detection

Best Medical Alert Systems With No Monthly Fee of 2021 (Pricing & Features)

Below is a review of the nine providers, including their prices and key functions.

Monitored Vs. No Monthly Fee

Something to remember about no monthly fee medical alert systems is that they don’t come with monitoring services. This is fine for some people, but others may need that 911 response or access to a call center. Here’s a brief overview of the two options to help families decide.

Monitored

A monitored system usually comes with a higher price tag, but it can also include more one-on-one assistance. For instance, lonely seniors may be able to dial the call center just to chat. Sometimes, they can receive health advice over the phone, too.

Pros:

  • 911 is the first contact
  • Get help from a professional sooner
  • Often provide advice over the phone
  • Sometimes offer prescription refills services
  • Takes the pressure off of the family

Cons:

  • Caregivers may feel less involved
  • Pricier option

No Monthly Fee

No monthly fee medical alert systems typically have a list of pre-programmed contacts who can help in case there’s a crisis. These devices may also connect the elderly individual with a 911 call center if necessary.

Pros:

  • A great secondary option for healthier seniors
  • Attractive pricing
  • Makes a caregiver's job easier
  • Pre-programmed list of familiar contacts
  • Reduces unnecessary calls to healthcare providers

Cons:

  • Accesses an emergency call center as a last resort
  • Requires nearby family/caregivers

How Does a No-Monthly-Fee System Work?

A medical alert system is more of an umbrella term and can refer to buttons, pendants, and phones. These devices usually offer two-way communication between call centers, the police, caregivers, and the elderly at home. Below are four ways that these services work.

1. Automated Dialer Telephone

Those who prefer a more traditional set-up can try an auto-dial phone. The user simply pushes a button on their pendant or bracelet to connect with their ICE (in case of emergency) contact.

2. Mobile Help Button

Wireless alarms can connect via the home's WiFi and access the senior's ICE contact list or the police department. Whether through an app or the mobile phone itself, elderly individuals can push a button if they require injury assistance.

3. WiFi or Internet-Based Systems

More models in 2021 are using WiFi and the Internet to help family members keep in touch with aging relatives at home. With everyone on the cellular network, it's easier to call or text each other in case there's a crisis.

4. In-Home Pager Systems

Perhaps a more outdated option, an in-home pager, is great for seniors who have a caregiver or family member who's usually in the same or nearby location. When they need assistance, the elderly can push a keypad on their pendant to ring the caretaker's pager.

Features & Things to Consider

To find the right medical alert system, consumers should consider a few key functionalities. Besides cost, there are questions about the call range of the equipment, how easy it is to use, fall detection, and more.

Individual preferences will vary depending on whether they live at home or not, as well as how tech-savvy they are.

1. Contacts List

Many types of ICE equipment come with a list of people that the elderly can speak to if something comes up. Depending on the provider, individuals may be able to program in their caretakers, doctors, and relatives. Alternatively, the list may be pre-programmed to include the police and fire departments, pharmacies, and other health professionals.

2. Easy Set-Up

Seniors often have trouble setting up technology, so an ER bracelet or pendant system should be as uncomplicated as possible. Fortunately, there are different options to choose from, such as mobile apps and phones, pagers, and base stations.

3. Range

Since this type of equipment usually comes with a base station, it's important to look at the range limit. If the user is not within the connectivity radius, then their call to family members or the police may not go through.

4. Two-Way Communication

Most products today come with two-way talk so that seniors can speak to the person they're calling straight from their bracelet, pendant, or mobile. This is crucial for those who are prone to trips and falls because they might not make it to the base station in time.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Is There a Monthly Fee for Life Alert?

    Yes, the company does charge a fee each month, but it varies depending on which plan one chooses. For instance, it could be anywhere from $49.95 to $89.85 per month.

    That said, this provider is well known in the ER response industry for seniors and has been in the business since 1987.

  • What is the Cost of Medical Alert Systems?

    It depends. As this review shows, there are several options, and they each come with a different price tag. To give a general idea, most equipment of this type charges between $29.95 and $89.95 per month.

    That doesn’t include any start-up fees or activations, which typically range from $0 to $95. Finally, accessories or installation could be an extra $100 or $200.

  • What is the Cheapest Life Alert System?

    The least expensive plan from that provider is $49.95, plus any activation fees. It includes the basic equipment that seniors require, as well as an optional mobile app for added protection.

    Off-brand or knockoff pendants may have no month-to-month payments but ask for an upfront price of a couple of hundred dollars.

  • Are Medical Alerts With No Monthly Fee Reliable?

    Yes. Consumers can look up each provider on their own to see ratings, reviews, and contact information for further assistance. To make this list, each business had to offer reliable service and access to trained professionals as well as local authorities.

    Plus, our team looked for companies that had client reviews and testimonials to ensure that shoppers were happy with their purchases.

  • Who Should Use a Medical Alert System?

    In general, those who are over the age of 65 are at a greater risk of household injuries from things like tripping over objects or slipping in the shower. As people get older, they become more fragile, their eyesight worsens, and they might have health conditions that further complicate things.

    An older person who has issues getting around and/or has a serious health diagnosis should consider one of these products.

Keep Your Freedom & Stay at Home With a 911 Button or Device

Keep in mind that not every senior citizen requires this type of equipment. Everyone is unique, and as such, will have challenges to consider. Some people reach their 60s, 70s, and 80s and exhibit great health.

Others have ailments or trouble getting around and could benefit from an ER response pendant. If that’s the case, take a good look at these product reviews to determine which is the way to go.


Editorial Staff

Jerry Carter is an experienced writer and has a passion for content development for varied projects. Jerry had been studying law at university when he realized that only writing could satisfy his adventurist spirit and his desire for knowledge. As a person with many unusual hobbies, he is also interested in security and modern technology.


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