Best Medical Alert Systems Guide & Reviews of 2021

The AARP has given important info to older people since 1958. Around 38 million people are part of this organization. It does not support any particular company. Yet, it recommends the use of the best medical alert systems. It is up to clients to choose the products that best fit their needs.

Kyle Nelson - Editorial Staff

Updated: March 2, 2021

What We Did to Find the Best

When creating the list of these products, we tried to look for the ones with the best ratings on the web. Those systems most of the times, come with a fee or a plan. Then, what we did was to try all of them to see if they performed well or not.

  • 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 compile this list, it was important to analyze the medical alert systems based on key metrics like features & equipment, customer support, cost, ease of use, trust score (positive and negative reviews). From there, each supplier earned a score from 0 to 10 for each metric. Then the average value is calculated, and the total estimations contributed to their position on this list. Readers can trust this review because it scoured dozens of client surveys, consults, blog posts, and articles.

1. ADT: Nice Security Offering

Total Score 9.6/10

ADT Main Medical
Adt Medical Alert
Adt Medical Alert Plus
  • Features & Equipment10/10
  • Customer Support10/10
  • Price8.0/10
  • Ease of Use10/10
  • Trust Score10/10
BBB Rating A+
Best for Security Offering

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

6 months

ADT has been in the industry for more than 140 years. It has around two hundred offices throughout the U.S. and Canada. So far, they have over 8 million clients. The company offers three different plans. Two of them are in-home, and one is mobile. The cover range is between 300 and 600 feet. The basic unit requires a landline. Medical Plus can work wirelessly. The on-the-go device works with GPS. It can find the exact location. This is useful for seniors who easily get lost.

Pros:

  • No activation fee
  • Both landline and cellular connections
  • House temperature monitoring
  • Fall detectors available
  • Waterproof necklace and wristband
  • Gadgets with a lifetime warranty
  • No long-term contracts

Cons:

  • Limited in-home product ranges
  • Not so cheap plans
  • Limited equipment and features

The basic plan brings two-way voice communication. It also has a temperature sensor. The product comes with a battery backup. There is a wireless waterproof pendant or wristband, too. The Medical Alert Plus includes a smart fall detection pendant. The mobile emergency response has a wireless waterproof pendant or wristband. It includes a charger and a portable carrying case. The cost for this service can be a bit expensive. Still, prices won’t go up when the contract is signed.

This company does not offer many extras. It only has some portable features and the fall detection service. Some examples include the waterproof wristband and the pendant help button. To conclude, this brand does a great job. The basics work very well. It should only add a few more specs to be on top.


2. Bay Alarm Medical: Great Value for Money

Total Score 9.6/10

Bay Main
Bay Medical Alert
Bay Medical Alert System
  • Features & Equipment9.0/10
  • Customer Support9.0/10
  • Price10/10
  • Ease of Use10/10
  • Trust Score10/10
BBB Rating A+
Best for Low Budget

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

30 days

Bay Alarm is in the market since 1946. Its offices are in California. They also have two more offices in Utah and Idaho. And all the products are made in the USA. Their emergency call service is one of the best ones in the field. It is also CSAA Five Diamond. And the bay device has a 4.7 star Google rating. The company is always thinking of new products. For example, it offers an app to keep track of users at any time.

Pros:

  • Good pricing
  • Fast answers
  • CSAA Five Diamond
  • Two-way speaker
  • Waterproof help button
  • Portable system
  • Includes Alaska & Hawaii

Cons:

  • A bit slow customer care
  • Warranty is not that efficient
  • High fees for the fall detectors

Bay Alarm Medical offers both in-home and mobile plans. It also has many other features. These include unusual ones such as the in-car monitor. It has a cheap cost, flexible options that will cater to any type of client. This Bay system makes the brand a good option for seniors. Today, their products include built-in batteries. These work as a backup when there is a power failure.

Another new service is its web and app. The staff can speak with clients in a more effective way. They also offer three levels of protection. Each of them has fall detectors within the price. They also added a vehicle crash service. This works with any type of car or bike. Also, they can send pings to phones, real-time monitors, and trip history. All in all, it is a complete brand.


3. Mobile Help: Keep One’s Property Safe

Total Score 9.3/10

Mobile Help Main
Mobile Help On The Go
Mobile Help Complete Protection
  • Features & Equipment9.5/10
  • Customer Support9.0/10
  • Price9.0/10
  • Ease of Use9.0/10
  • Trust Score10/10
BBB Rating A+
Best for Work Online

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

NO

MobileHelp is the US first provider of M-PERS tech. It can work both with or without a phone line. Their best feature is MobileHelp Connect. It is an online platform. It tracks and sends pings. Friends, family, and caregivers can use it. Their method is quite new. They use cellular sensors to get to every house in the US. People know the brand for its high-quality products. And customer service gives fast solutions.

Pros:

  • 4G connection for the alarm
  • Rapid response monitoring
  • Cheap plans
  • Add-on only
  • 17 second response time
  • Large, color buttons
  • Free web and cell phone apps

Cons:

  • The monthly cost can be pricey with all the options added on
  • Smartwatch asks for upfront payment
  • Lack of an in-house monitoring center

MobileHelp offers mainly the mentioned type of devices. It also includes an online platform for all members. They can all connect to it. The prices are low, and there is a variety of features to choose from. This is a good option for those who don’t want normal plans. The company gives customer care in more than 240 languages.

Users can apply this for both in-home and mobile use. The brand also offers medication reminders and activity trackers. Some other services are also available. For example, there are waterproof help buttons and fall detection. People can pair these gadgets with any type of medical alert system. There is also a Samsung smartwatch. Pros in the field consider it one of the best-in-class medical alert systems with GPS tech. Also, any service plan per month includes an alarm locker.


4. Medical Guardian: Excellent Brand

Total Score 8.9/10

Medical Guardian Main
Medical Guardian On the Go
Medical Guardian In Home
  • Features & Equipment9.5/10
  • Customer Support8.0/10
  • Price8.0/10
  • Ease of Use9.0/10
  • Trust Score10/10
BBB Rating A+
Best for GPS Tracking

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

30 days

Medical Guardian is a great option for large houses. It is also a nice option for people who often go out and wish to keep their house safe. The company has traditional monitoring as well as motion sensors. It offers US-based services and many plans to choose from. Its equipment is novel and waterproof. It includes, for example, a medical alert watch for any of the owners of the house. This way, they will have an eye on their house no matter where they go.

Pros:

  • A lot of plan
  • Great quality
  • Nice app and web
  • GPS available
  • Good range coverage
  • Waterproof pendants
  • Clean audio quality

Cons:

  • Monthly fees are pricey
  • Choices may be too many
  • Quite new in the industry

This camera helps people to feel safe about their houses. They offer many options, including traditional, innovative, waterproof, and GPS devices. A recent addition is a smartwatch. With this gadget, adults feel protected at any time. The equipment is also user-friendly. As regards the plans, there are no long-term contracts. This means users can cancel the registration when they want. The call center staff can help customers in both English and Spanish. And there is also a translation service for people who speak other languages.

Yet, the company is not one of the first ones in the industry. It appeared only in 2005. But many clients think of it as a reliable medical alert system provider. Thanks to its motion and contact sensors, people choose it to protect their houses and families.


5. Great Call: Mobile Options for Everyone

Total Score 8.7/10

Great Call Main
Great Call Medical Phone
Great Call Medical Device
  • Features & Equipment9.0/10
  • Customer Support8.0/10
  • Price8.0/10
  • Ease of Use8.5/10
  • Trust Score10/10
BBB Rating A+
Best for Mobile Options

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

30 days

GreatCall has been in the market for more than 14 years. It is popular for its new Jitterbug phones. They also offer plans with custom options. Seniors can include perks that are better for them. There is no need to pay for extras they won’t use. The service is very reliable. It uses the famous Verizon network. The products are waterproof and have a nice GPS. The brand also makes apps easy to use. People can access them with or without their phones.

Pros:

  • All-in-one waterproof portable
  • Fall detectors
  • GPS
  • Advanced tech
  • Daily fitness tracking service
  • Many health and safety apps
  • Nice warranty for money

Cons:

  • Fall detectors only available with certain devices
  • The activation fee costs a lot
  • The product line is limited

GreatCall features a very new way to keep seniors protected. It offers several modern portable products – for example, smart and flip phones and smartwatch. The devices may be a bit expensive in the cost. Yet, they are worth it. These innovative products allow seniors to have a more independent life. They don’t have to remain all day in their houses. And, they will be safe wherever they go at any time.

Emergency assistance is on the go. The service also features fitness check-ins and health and safety tips. It includes, as well, access to pros for advice and linking with caregivers. One drawback is that fall detection devices are not included in all of them. All in all, this firm designs easy to use solutions for seniors and other vulnerable users.


6. LifeStation: Great Offers for Value

Total Score 8.7/10

LifeStation Main
LifeStation Medical Alert
LifeStation How It Works
  • Features & Equipment8.0/10
  • Customer Support8.0/10
  • Price8.5/10
  • Ease of Use9/10
  • Trust Score10/10
BBB Rating A+
Best for Discounts

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

30 days

LifeStation keeps people safe since 1977. It has many updates so far. Their products and customer service improved a lot. The company works hard to have good results. It protects seniors in the U.S. and Canada. Its office is in New Jersey.

Some people don’t like long contracts. This is a good option for them. The firm offers a 30-day money-back guarantee. It also has the lowest monthly rates in the industry. And it has a fast response time. The average is 20 seconds.

Pros:

  • Landline and cellular in-home options available
  • No long-term contracts
  • 30-day money-back guarante
  • Button resistant to water
  • The mobile unit battery lasts 5 days
  • Low monthly monitoring fees start at $19.95
  • Fast response time

Cons:

  • Some users claim false alarms on fall detection pendant
  • Website is not so detailed
  • Pendant range covers only 500 feet

LifeStation has three medical alert system plan. One is In-home Traditional. The second is In-home Plus. And the third is Mobile with GPS. The devices are easy to set up and to use.
There is no charge for them. The package includes fall detection. It is compatible with all the options. The battery for the mobile unit is durable. It lasts for 5 days. It also has message alerts for caregivers.

The prices are competitive in the market. Yet, there is not enough information online. The website needs more attention. People want to know more about their services. The cheapest one costs $19.95. This brand does not join any third-party home security system. The response time and quality are excellent. The staff treats clients nicely. This is important for customers.


7. LifeFone: Experience Great Customer Service

Total Score 8.4/10

LifeFone Review
LifeFone At Home
LifeFone On The Go
  • Features & Equipment7.5/10
  • Customer Support7.5/10
  • Price8.0/10
  • Ease of Use9.0/10
  • Trust Score10/10

Starting Price

$24.95

BBB Rating A+
Best for Permanent Support

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

30 days

LifeFone has more than 40 years in the industry. All the services are in the USA. They have customer-friendly policies. For example, the 30-day money-back and price-lock agreements. The firm also allows users to customize their package. They can select the medical alert devices they prefer. This way, they make their personal set-up. Also, this brand has competitive prices. It doesn’t have activation or equipment fees. It is a long-time provider with loyal customers.

Pros:

  • Protection for two people under one basic plan
  • Lots of features and custom equipment choices
  • GPS enabled devices
  • Custom emergency response plans
  • Health tools
  • Portable and in-home options
  • Works since 1976

Cons:

  • Add-on prices can add up
  • Speaker quality falls behind the competition
  • Outdoor range weaker than that of some others

LifeFone has high-quality products like many other popular brands. They offer four plans. One is in-home with both traditional and cellular connectivity. One of them combines at-home and mobile systems. This is perfect for couples. Then, there are two portable plans with GPS units. The four of them work with an optional fall detector.

The vendor also offers spouse monitoring for the price of one. It also has the lowest price for the fall detectors. People choose this firm for many reasons. It has user-friendly policies and no long term contracts. This service is easy to install and to use. The mobile plan includes 30-day battery life. They are the most durable ones in the industry.


8. Life Alert: Quick Response for Health

Total Score 8.1/10

Life Alert Main
Life Alert Medical
Life Alert Mobile
  • Features & Equipment7.5/10
  • Customer Support8.0/10
  • Price7.5/10
  • Ease of Use7.5/10
  • Trust Score10/10

Starting Price

$45.95

BBB Rating A+
Best for Quick Response

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

No

Life Alert is a leader in the medical industry. It has been in the market since 1987. Many people know the brand for its TV commercials. There was a senior saying, “Help, I’ve fallen, and I can’t get up.” It is one classic marketing campaign. Its main office is in Encino, California. The monitoring center gets around 2 million calls a year.
The company offers three different plans. The three of them are landlines. Only one has a cellular connection. It is hard to learn about the prices because they are not online.

Pros:

  • On-site monitoring center
  • Carbon monoxide and fire/smoke alarm options
  • Mobile options included
  • Long history in the market
  • TMA Five Diamond Certified Monitoring Center
  • Advance payment discounts
  • Mobile phone app

Cons:

  • High prices
  • Three-year long contract
  • No fall detector options

Life Alert is one of the most famous brands in the market. Clients can trust this vendor’s services. The problem is that the cost is quite high. Especially if we compare the prices with other companies in the field, this firm does not include free trials either. So users will have to sign a three-year contract from the start. Yet, if the client passes away alone in the house, a full refund is paid back. But, prices don’t rise throughout the years.

This brand offers traditional medical alert devices like any other one mentioned before. It has a wireless button for help and a two-way talk between people. It also has automatic testing of the main unit. It helps to be sure it works in the correct way. So, there is nothing new compared to other products on the list. Still, the quality is good enough.


9. Philips Lifeline: Brand Recognition for Years

Total Score 8.1/10

Philips Life Main
Philips Lifeline About
Philips Lifeline Cares
  • Features & Equipment8.5/10
  • Customer Support7.0/10
  • Price7.0/10
  • Ease of Use8.0/10
  • Trust Score10/10

Starting Price

$29.95

BBB Rating A+
Best for Its Reputation

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

30 days

Philips Lifeline has been in business for 45 years. It was the first medical alert service provider in the industry. And they are still the #1 provider. Its main office is in Framingham, Massachusetts. This company created the first alarm button in North America in 1972. At first, hospitals worked as call centers. But then the company centralized the call centers for a better service. Nowadays, the brand offers at-home and mobile options. They are called HomeSafe and GoSafe.

Pros:

  • 200-Staff team of U.S and Canada Based response centers
  • Supports over 140 languages
  • Personal care plan
  • Fall-detection specs
  • Water-resistant pendant and medical alert devices
  • Landline and cellular connections
  • Medication dispenser option

Cons:

  • Doesn’t have Five Diamonds
  • Not smart home compatible
  • Higher than average activation, fall detection, and monthly fees

Philips Lifeline started the alarm button industry many years ago. The HomeSafe option has a landline and cellular connections. Users can also choose to add fall detectors. The GoSafe is a portable device. It keeps seniors safe whenever they go out. It is a good option for those who prefer pro installation. Yet DIY fans can easily set up the equipment themselves. Mobile plans include GoSafe and GoSafe 2.

Both protect a client indoors and outdoors. The only difference is the features. The second version is an all-in-one pendant. It includes a two-way speaker and fall detection. Also, this brand offers medical alert devices. This helps to have an accurate location for its customers. Finally, they answer around 18,000 calls per day. And they support two hundred languages.


10. Medical Alert: Best Response Center

Total Score 8.0/10

Medical Alert Main
Medical Alert At Home
Medical Alert On The Go
  • Features & Equipment7.5/10
  • Customer Support7.0/10
  • Price7.5/10
  • Ease of Use8.0/10
  • Trust Score10/10

Starting Price

$19.95

BBB Rating A+
Best for Response Center

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

30 days

Connect America runs Medical Alert. It is one of the US’ biggest providers of PERS. They work for customers and hospitals. The company is in Philadelphia. Yet, it has monitoring services outside the USA. Their in-home systems are plug-and-play. So, they’re both easy to set up and to use. The brand offers two home-based plans and one mobile pack. And it has some of the lowest prices in the market.

Pros:

  • No long-term plans
  • Fall detectors available
  • GPS enabled devices
  • Landline and wireless options
  • App for 24/7 control
  • Two-way talk operation
  • Multilingual support

Cons:

  • Limited perks
  • Fall detection costs extra
  • Only one month free

Medical Alert is a reliable and cheap in-home system. It also offers one mobile plan. The device is easy to install and to use. The buttons are light. They also include durable batteries. Users have to pay $10 more for fall detectors. The company also gives customer-friendly contracts. There is no need for long-term ones.

The firm also has SIA-certified agents who speak many languages. They can take calls in more than a hundred of them. With all these specs, the brand is quite good in the market. It has some of the lowest prices. Still, some vendors include more updated types of connections than the normal ones. This option is better for those who stay in their houses.


Medical Alert Systems Comparison Table (Pricing & Features)

Taking care of one’s health is not easy. That is why all of their specs should be taken into account. Below goes a table to compare all the companies so that users get to choose with clear data.

Provider Total Score Price/mo BBB Rating DIY instal Trial Period Warranty Secure Score Type of connection Fall Detection Money-back guarantee In-home range Battery GPS Network provider Access to the Cloud Weather Resistant
1. ADT 9.6/10 $29.99 A+ YES 6 months Lifetime $7.30 Landline & Cellular $10/mo 6-Month Up to 600 Feet Up to 30 hours Yes AT&T Yes Yes
2. Bay Alarm Medical 9.6/10 $19.95 A+ YES 30 days Lifetime $9 Landline & Cellular $10/mo 30-Day Up to 1,000 feet Up to 32 hours Yes AT&T 4G LTE Yes Yes
3. Mobile Help 9.3/10 $19.95 A+ YES NO Lifetime $8 Landline & Cellular $10/mo 30-Day Up to 600 Feet Up to 30 hours Yes AT&T No Yes
4. Medical Guardian 8.9/10 $29.95 A+ YES 30 days Lifetime $8 Landline & Cellular $10/mo None Up to 1,300 Feet Up to 32 hours Yes AT&T No Yes
5. Great Call 8.7/10 $14.99 A+ YES 30 days One year $8 Cellular Included 30-Day Not specified Up to 24 hours Yes AT&T No Yes
6. LifeStation 8.7/10 $19.95 A+ YES 30 days None $8 Landline & Cellular $7/mo 30-Day Up to 500 Feet Up to 32-hours Yes AT&T Yes Yes
7. LifeFone 8.4/10 $24.95 A+ YES 30 days Lifetime $7.80 Landline & Cellular $5/mo 30-Day Up to 1,300 Feet Up to 42 hours Yes AT&T Yes Yes
8. Life Alert 8.1/10 $49.95 A+ YES NO Lifetime $7 Landline & Cellular Not included Not included Up to 800 Feet Don’t need charging, up to 7-10 years Yes AT&T Yes Yes
9. Philips Lifeline 8.1/10 $29.95 A+ YES 30 days One year $8 Landline & Cellular Included 30-Day Up to 800 Feet Up to 30 hours Yes AT&T Yes Yes
10. Medical Alert 8.0/10 $19.95 A+ YES 30 days Lifetime $8 Landline & Cellular $10/mo 30-Day Up to 600 Feet Up to 30 hours Yes AT&T Yes Yes

What is a Medical Alert System?

A medical alert system is a personal emergency response system. It is in charge of giving fast help during emergencies. It is more popular among seniors. Yet, the pros highly recommend it to all people who live alone or have some health condition. They should get the best products that suit their needs.

Features

The best medical alert systems should include two-way communication. This makes them more effective. They should make the house a safe place for seniors to live in. This way, they don’t have to go to a nursing home too soon. Finally, a good emergency company should provide portable devices.

24-hour Emergency Response Services

A good medical alert system should have full monitoring. The devices can send emergency signals in different ways. It can be physical, with vocal commands, or with sensor activation. It should call out for help as soon as there’s a problem detected.

Smart Detection

This feature is essential for seniors who have mobility problems. Falls are generally the first reason for in-home injuries. And the elderly are at a higher risk than the rest of the population. This device is normally for free. However, some companies may charge up to $20 for it.

Two-Way Talk Featur

Most medical alert systems have speakers with two-way sound. This allows users to talk instantly with the monitoring center. This way, they can talk about their specific needs. Some devices lack this function. Instead, they include a panic button. This means they can send a message, but not offer info about the problem.

GPS-Enabled

This feature is generally a must in medical alert systems. It is best for those who want a portable gadget. It also offers remote location service. This is crucial for people who have Alzheimer's. They might get lost, so this gadget helps others to find them.

Long Distance Coverage

This depends on the type of products users have. For an in-home one, they don’t need a great distance range. But for active users, it may be more useful. This way, they won’t be stuck in their houses. So, seniors should consider devices that work with a cellular connection.

Resistance to Water

Waterproof and water-resistant are not the same. The second one resists only a small amount of water. So be careful when buying a device. This is essential to consider for those who live in moist areas. Or if seniors plan to install the gadget outdoors.

Simple Installation

Most medical alert systems are easy to install and use. They usually have DIY setups. This means users can set the devices up on their own. They just have to follow some simple steps. In any case, they can also receive online or phone support.

Double Coverage

This a good feature for two people who live together. This means both occupants can benefit from the same emergency medical alert system. Some firms include the coverage within a certain plan. Some other companies charge a small fee.

Automatic Check Out

This is quite a new popular feature in the industry. It generally works with apps on smart devices, like cell phones or tablets. This type of testing checks things on a daily, weekly, or monthly basis. The system makes sure everything works out well.

Lockboxes To Get In

A lockbox is a place to keep the entrance key. Emergency staff can open the door if no one inside can’t do it. The system is very simple. First, the person activates the alert. Second, the service notifies EMS. Finally, responders spot the location and give help. With this feature, they can break into the house without causing damage.

No Need To Carry Devices

Wall buttons are like normal watches that seniors wear. The only difference is that these go on the walls. Users should place them in high-risk areas. Examples include the kitchen, the bathroom, and the stairs. It is very convenient for seniors who don’t like carrying medical alert pendants with them.

Customer Service In Multiple Languages

This is extremely important for non-English speaker users. Seniors should make sure the company can give good translation services. Users should be able to speak in the language they feel more comfortable with. This way, the company can guarantee good service.

Types of Systems

The two main types of medical alert systems are in-home and mobile. The first one is best for those who stay most time inside their houses. The second one comes in many styles. For example, people can use them as a medical alert bracelet, pendant, or watch.

1. Landline System or Cellular System

There is an important difference between systems with landline and cellular connections. The second one allows users to move freely. This means they don’t have to remain in their houses. Below goes a description of the pros and cons of each type.

Landline System

This type of system is connected to the phone line. This means it isn’t wireless. The landline option is great for rural areas. Bad weather or power outages won’t affect it. Yet, the lines are more at risk of being cut. Most people choose it because it’s cheaper.

Pros:

  • Stable
  • Cheap price
  • Resists bad weather
  • Power outages don’t affect it
  • Reaches rural areas

Cons:

  • Vulnerable lines
  • Used only at home
  • Doesn’t allow mobility

Cellular System

The cellular option is wireless. It doesn’t need any additional connections. This means there are no lines that can be cut. They are also portable and easy to move around. This allows users to go to different places and still be protected. The only problem is that it may suffer disruptions during bad weather conditions.

Pros:

  • Wireless
  • More freedom of movement
  • Greater coverage
  • Portable and Practical
  • Innovative: new technology
  • Outdoor protection

Cons:

  • May not reach rural areas
  • More likely to be affected by weather conditions

2. Contracts or No Contracts

The type of contract varies among companies. Some require long ones, while some don’t. Many firms offer low-price, no-contract, or month-to-month options. Clients should always look for user-friendly contracts. For example, those who have a money-back guarantee or free activation.

3. Waterproof or Water-Resistant Devices

Waterproof and water-resistant devices are not the same. Users should bear this in mind. Depending on their needs, buyers should check which option is better for their houses. Below goes a detailed description to learn about the main differences.

Waterproof

Users can submerge waterproof things under the water without worries. For example, seniors can use them in the shower or other wet places. The gadget will continue to work in a good way.

Pros:

  • Resists the water
  • Does not break with ease
  • Protects the person even in the shower
  • People can wear it under the rain

Cons:

  • Costly
  • Adds weight to the product

Water-Resistant Devices

On the other hand, this type of device can only resist water. This means users can’t submerge it. For this reason, it is not good to use them in the shower.

Pros:

  • More convenient
  • Usable in humidity
  • Resists bad weather
  • Durable in time
  • Not as pricey as other types of products

Cons:

  • Not entirely protected
  • Adds value for money

4. Home or Portable

An alert device can get to the monitoring center in different ways. It can be with landline, wireless, or cellular connection. First, users need to choose the type of system they want. They should decide between in-home or portable gadgets.

Home Systems

Here goes a list of the different ways these types of devices get to the monitoring center. The best one depends on the users’ needs.

Landline

With this system, the device reaches the monitoring center via phone line. Some companies need a dedicated line to get the service. This is the best option for those who always stay inside.

Wireless

Wireless devices connect to the monitoring center through a Wi-Fi connection. Sometimes, this option is backed up by cellular connectivity. This is useful if the internet goes down.

Cellular

This option is also wireless. It uses a cell tower signal to get to the monitoring center. This is the best option for active users. They don’t need to remain inside to feel protected.

Portable Systems

Portable systems are very practical and effective. Read the list below about the different types and their features.

Bracelets

Medical alert bracelets are used just like a normal one. Some of them feature two-way communication. Some others only include a help button to send a ping to the one who needs it.

Necklaces & Pendants

People wear medical alert systems like any other necklace. They come in different styles and colors for both men and women. They also have the same distinction as the bracelets.

Watches

These devices look like any other regular watch. Some feature many smart functions like reminders or trackers. Users can also pair them with cell phones. They may also have two-way communication or a help button.

Who Uses This Type of Systems?

Grandparents are always there for anyone. So, they deserve the best to live safely in their households. For this reason, they should get a quality system for their houses. Thanks to their innovative features, seniors will feel protected at any time.

1. Seniors at Home

Generally, seniors are used to living alone. They may have already lost their partners, for example. Or in other cases, their families don’t visit them so often. Yet, they enjoy their independence. But when they are alone, it is more difficult to ask for help in emergencies.

2. Those Who Have Just Retired

These people usually are alone too much time inside their houses. In some cases, they go outside very little, so their mobility is at risk. In other cases, they find it hard to adapt to their new lives without work. When this happens, they may force themselves to do something. And they end up with injuries.

3. People Who Suffer From Epilepsy

These people need lots of help to control their condition. Some of them respond very well to medication. But some others, especially children and elders, take more time to adapt. People need to look after them until they find good treatment. And this usually takes a long time.

4. Patients with Diabetes

Diabetes is also a difficult disorder to control. Some people can fall into comas or have seizures. This happens when their blood sugar is higher than the normal range. In those cases, they might not be able to dial 911 to ask for help.

5. People with Alzheimer’s Disease

Alzheimer’s disease is a thing these days. There is almost a 60 percent chance that people who suffer from it will wander at one point. This can bring bad consequences. This happens in particular when they don’t remember who they are or where they live. For these patients, it is important to carry a medical alert system with them.

6. Those Who Look After the Elderly

Sometimes caregivers take care of seniors in their homes. Aging parents or elder who are ill want to get help. Yet, it is difficult at times to be after them all the time. So, it is quite a relief for health workers to be backed up by home devices.

How to Choose the Right Medical Device

Choosing the right package can be a difficult task. The best one will depend on the client’s needs. Here there is a list with 5 steps to follow before getting a new device.

1. A Price That Fits the Budget

Generally, medical alert systems with GPS cost around 20 or 40$ per month. This price is the most common one for traditional in-home plans. The ones with the cellular connection may cost a bit more. All in all, most of the offers in this selection fits this range of prices.

2. User-Friendly Policies

Be careful with long-term contracts. In some cases, clients get stuck in a three-year-long contract. So, they can not cancel the service if they don’t like it or need it. In this list, all companies offer easy cancellation policies. Some also include free monthly trials.

3. Work As Promised or Better

Generally, this type of product works only “good enough”. Yet, seniors, at this stage in their lives, deserve more than that. The devices included should be of high quality. All of their functions should be as the ones mentioned before. In the list, all brands offer high standard services.

4. Clients’ Reviews

Reading the client’s comments is very useful. It helps to check out the quality of the products. These users give their opinion based on what they went through. Just go read them and come up with some general ideas. People can find them on any web with medical alert system reviews.

5. Customer Support

It is very important to count on good customer care. Users should be able to call at any time to ask for help. The staff should also treat them kindly. Language is also a crucial aspect. The workers at the monitoring center have to speak the same language as the client. It’s a good thing, then that most companies offer multilingual services today.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Are Any of These Systems Covered by Medicare?

    No, these medical alert systems are not covered by Medicare. The company does not consider these devices as a necessity. Of course, seniors are against that. But, it is a thing that still won’t change. It is crucial to mention, though, that Medicare Part C does cover some alerts. But this depends on many factors. For example, the type of insurance and the state where clients live. So, always ask the provider about this aspect. Also, some healthcare accounts cover these kinds of gadgets.

  • What Is the Best Rated for Seniors?

    MobileHelp is the leader within the industry. It makes its equipment, which results in high-quality products. It is also one of the companies that created new devices. One of them is a nice medical alert watch. The set-up process is very simple and fast. Moreover, clients don’t need a landline for connection. The firm also offers Duo. It is a package that covers two people for the price of one. It is a perfect option for couples.

  • What Is the Monthly Fee for Life Alert?

    Life Alert monthly costs range from $95 to $198. This depends on the type of equipment chosen. The service includes installation (professional or DIY). It also has activation charges and programming. The price for monitoring goes from $49.95 to $89.95 per month. Also, this vendor makes a long term contract of three years. This can be a drawback if users want to cancel the registration. Looking for services with clear policies is also a nice idea. It is better to make cancellations.

  • Does Life Alert Really Save a Life Every 11 Minutes?

    Life alert says they do so on their website. They explain that they save at least one life from a potential catastrophic outcome every 11 minutes. But, users should read this carefully. There is a longer definition included that explains the meaning of “catastrophic outcome”. In other words, this information is not 100% true.

  • Are There Any Free Devices?

    Yes, there are some ways to get a free medical alert system. One option is with the LifeLine federal government program. Users with low incomes can get benefits. Also, some private health insurance covers the costs of these types of devices. Others will give back only a part of the price. In the case of the veteran, they check out the VA. They might get a free phone dialer.

Protect Your Health Today

Choosing the right medical alert system can be a bit hard. So, this article should help buyers when choosing what to purchase. This guide shows reliable medical alert reviews and comments online. This selection was quite strict. It has covered all the crucial points: devices, costs, pros and cons, main features, and more. Use the advice to choose the perfect product.


Editorial Staff

Kyle Nelson has a degree in journalism and came to Securing Home with more than a decade of experience writing for several technology magazines. He is optimistic and charismatic. We appreciate having him on our team not only for his excellent articles but also for his sense of humor and ability to tell stories.


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