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Best Overall
Bay Alarm Medical
SecureScore™: 9.3/10
Bay Alarm Medical offers both high quality technology and products, with rapid response and service. Their cellular system with GPS is the best on the market and they’re the only company offering an in-car monitoring solution.
Medical Guardian offers a high-end product suite at above average prices. The company has an A+ BBB rating and thousands of positive customer reviews. Recently they’ve developed a smart watch with advanced monitoring capabilities.
ADT Health keeps things simple with three plans to choose from. Their mobile units comes with GPS location tracking with optional fall detection. We just wish the device was more discreet, but otherwise ADT Health makes the grade.
When it comes to choosing a medical alert system, there’s a lot of factors to consider to make sure we provide the best care for our aging loved ones. We look at the type of system – is it an at-home system, mobile, or both? We look at the equipment – are they comfortable to wear? And of course, we look at the monitoring service – is the company dependable and quick to respond?
That’s a lot to keep in mind, but having tested dozens of medical alert systems, we know that the most crucial part is choosing the provider. Having great equipment doesn’t matter if the service provider offers poor service or charges way more than they should. So in this guide, we’ll give you the 10 best medical alert system providers we’ve tested that offer great value, features, equipment, and care for our loved ones. Top on the list is Bay Alarm with its excellent offerings of at-home and on-the-go medical alert systems, but keep reading to learn more about our other recommendations.
Impressive response time with emergency response center
Above-average range on at-home systems
No activation fee
Newly updated on-the-go necklace
Sleek appearance of smartwatch
Dual system offers extra layer of protection
Extra features on smartwatch, like step tracker
Cons:
Equipment fee added on some systems
Battery life only 6 to 18 hours on the smartwatch
Long wait time with customer service
Our Experience:
Bay Alarm Medical’s packages offer two qualities we look for in a medical alert system – top-tier safety and security and reasonable prices. It’s an innovator in the field that always has the latest gadgets for medical monitoring. For example, the SOS Micro is a lightweight mobile alert device that doesn’t require a separate hub to be carried around. Plus, you can choose to connect it to a Verizon or AT&T network, depending on which is more reliable in your area. For seniors looking for something more stylish, feature-rich, and discreet, the SOS Smartwatch is also an option.
More recently, the company rolled out a free app. When connected to a monitoring subscription, it provides caregivers with the ability to track SOS Mobile and SOS All-in-One users. Other functions let users manage contact information and make changes to their accounts.
That’s Bay Alarm’s innovative side, but it’s also best in class in terms of the protection and value it provides. It has three accredited, redundant call centers that are TMA Five Diamond Certified – the highest certification for monitoring centers. You’d think it’s expensive given everything it offers, but their home systems actually come with free equipment. And mobile systems that do require an equipment fee, such as the $111 SOS Smartwatch, Bay Alarm frequently offers discounts.
You’d have a field day choosing a Bay Alarm Medical package with all the add-ons and customizations available. It might even come to the point that it’s overwhelming, so to help you out, here’s a rundown of Bay Alarm Medical’s offerings:
Bay Alarm Medical Equipment
What’s in the Box
Equipment Price
Monthly Monitoring Price
SOS Home
In Home Base Unit
Wearable combo Button
Vial of Life EMS Information Package
Optional Lockbox
Free
$24.95 – $39.95
SOS All-In-One
SOS Help Button with two-way speaker and optional fall detection
Wearable Button
Caregiver Tracker
Charging Cradle
Lanyard and Belt Clip
$129.00
$34.95 – $44.95
SOS Micro
SOS Mobile Device
Charging Cradle
Belt Clip
Lanyard
Caregiver Tracker
$99.00
$29.95 – $54.95
SOS Smartwatch
Smart Watch with Dedicated SOS Button
$149.00
$39.95 – $64.95
FYI: Right now Bay Alarm Medical is offering 30 percent off all their mobile devices and will throw in free shipping and a free month of monitoring. And keep in mind, if you’re shopping for a medical alert system on a budget, we’ve compiled a list of the best affordable systems.
TMA Five Diamond Certified monitoring based in the U.S.
GPS-ready and water-resistant
At-home and on-the-go solution in one
Customer portal for activity tracking and communication
Cons:
Somewhat high equipment fees
Response times could be more consistent
Fall detection is an add-on feature with extra fees
Bright light can be disruptive at night
Long charging time
Our Experience:
If you’re on the fence about signing up for a medical alert system, try the Medical Guardian alert system. There are no long-term contracts to worry about, so you can check it out for a month and if you decide it’s not for you, simply return the system.
Medical Guardian offers a number of options when it comes to systems and plans. If your loved one spends most of their time at home, there are two offerings. First, there’s the MGClassic with a landline connection. That plan costs $32.95 per month, but there’s no cost for equipment. Then there’s the MGHome Cellular package. It costs more, $37.95 per month and you have to pay a one-time equipment fee of $149.95. However, it allows you to use Wi-Fi and cellular signals to send alerts, which makes it a more reliable system.
We were impressed by the equipment’s range. Both systems continued to operate when we were within 1,300 to 1,400 feet of the base station, which is more than other medical alert systems. So you can feel assured that if you stumble in the back garden and need help, these systems will get the call out.
For adults who like to be out and about, Medical Guardian offers three options: the MGMini, the MGMini Lite, and the MGMove, with monthly monitoring costs that range from $39.95 to $44.95 per month. In addition, all systems are GPS-enabled with Wi-Fi and 4G connectivity. All the on-the-go systems have unlimited range. You can use them at home or outside, and no matter where you go, you should be covered.
The MGMove is particularly interesting, because it’s a smartwatch with medical alert capabilities. Among its features are the ability to set up medication reminders, messaging, physical activity monitoring, and emergency calling. The downside, of course, is that it needs to charge, but the watch can run up to a full day on a single charge, even with heavy usage. You should also know that the watch itself carries a pricetag of $200. However, Medical Guardian is continually running specials, so you may be able to cut into that price significantly if you look for their current specials before you commit.
Expert Examined
From Christopher Norman, a Board-Certified Geriatric Nurse Practitioner with the National Council on Aging (NCOA)
“I had a patient with end-stage multiple sclerosis and her short-term memory was increasingly affected by this disease process. She was an artist and would sit for hours and paint, often becoming so absorbed that she would miss medications and even forget to go to the bathroom. With the help of her daughter, her medical alert system prompted her to not only take her medications at their scheduled times, but also to go to the bathroom proactively. The outcome: less discomfort and more hours to do what she enjoyed.”
You might recognize the name ADT as one of the best home security brands in the country. It’s been in business for over 150 years and is known for its superior equipment and best-in-industry response center. But how is its medical alert system? Well, we think it’s pretty good.
ADT Health keeps it simple with three plans: the Medical Alert Basic (in-home), Medical Alert Plus (in-home), and On-The-Go (mobile). Monthly monitoring charges range from $31.99 to $41.99 per month, but for that price, you get equipment with the latest innovations, like base units with integrated temperature sensors. And you pay nothing for that equipment, which means you can protect your loved ones without any upfront investment.
The On-the-Go Medical Alert System centers around a basic mobile device that gets the job done. It includes two-way talk, GPS location detection, and an optional fall detection pendant.
As you might expect with a company that’s been in business as long as ADT, there’s a strong emphasis on customer service. ADT Health, for instance, offers a ForeveRate. Basically, customers can lock in monthly fee prices for life. Plus, there are no contracts, no hidden fees, and all equipment comes with a lifetime warranty.
We should point out that ADT Health medical alert system add-ons are limited. They offer additional waterproof wearables (white or black waterproof wristband or pendant help button), the fall detection service, a leather case for the mobile device, and a lockbox.
Best-in-Class 1,400-Foot Range for At-Home Systems
Affordable Pricing for Cellular At-Home Systems
Cons:
Fall Detection Requires an Additional Pendant
Mobile Device Is Somewhat Clunky
Some Packages Include Activation Fees
Our Experience:
MobileHelp offers all the key features you’d expect from any medical alert system — and then some — all for an affordable price. MobileHelp Micro costs $34.95 per month, and if you’re looking to protect more than one person, the Mobile Duo Bundle offers the same features for $49.95. Both are hassle-free on-the-go systems that would allow active seniors to roam around freely without carrying a bulky mobile base unit. They work essentially anywhere, too, as long as an AT&T cellular signal is available.
We believe the MobileHelp Micro system is the best on-the-go system in MobileHelp’s lineup, but for those looking for an at-home system, we recommend the Classic Cellular package for two reasons – it’s one of the most affordable cellular system we’ve seen at $24.95 per month, and the pendant that comes with it has an industry-best 1,400-foot coverage.
Better still, you can combine a Micro system and Classic Cellular system in one bundle – the $44.95 Home Duo Bundle – to get the best of both worlds. That means seniors are protected whether they’re working in the garden or shopping at Walmart, allowing them the freedom to go anywhere and stay protected.
FYI: One downside of MobileHelp is that its equipment doesn’t have the same modern designs as other medical alert systems on this list. That said, they are reliable and some of the most affordable medical alert systems we’ve seen.
While ADT has been around longer as a company, LifeLine, originally Philips Lifeline, is the oldest medical alert provider. It’s basically responsible for inventing the industry over 40 years ago. It was originally run by hospitals and healthcare facilities but has since shifted to offering medical alert systems. It was the right move as it’s one of the top providers in the industry.
Lifeline offers three different plan options; two at-home plans and one on-the-go plan, which all range from $29.95 per month to $39.95 per month. There’s also a one-time $99.95 setup fee with each at-home plan.
Finally, when you’re considering Lifeline, keep in mind that their prices include many features and extras you pay for separately with other companies. Fall detection, for instance, is standard with all Lifeline systems and it’s figured into the cost of the system. That justifies LifeLine’s higher prices. You’re paying more but getting more. However, that approach might turn some customers off, since it means you don’t get to choose for yourself which features matter most to you.
Location Detection for Caregivers with Medical Alert Connect Caregiver App
Cons:
Shipping Costs Extra with Monthly Payment Plan
Incomplete Information on Website
Our Experience:
Medical Alert is another provider that offers the flexibility of month-to-month payments without any hidden fees or long-term contracts. They offer at home and mobile plans, and can be installed using a cellular connection or a landline.
Plans start at $19.95 per month, a competitive price point, though fall detection costs an extra $10.00 per month. As with other systems on this list, Medical Alert rents at-home system equipment and the price is part of the monthly subscription fee. The base unit, the neck pendant, and the wristband are included in the $19.95 per month price. Unlike a lot of other systems, Medical Alert doesn’t charge for its mobile equipment either. Mobile systems come with a charging base, handheld device, and interchangeable wrist/neck button. The monthly rate for these packages is a little higher at $47.95 per month.
FYI: Medical Alert has redundant CSAA Five Diamond Certified response centers that offer 24/7 monitoring and bilingual operators in 140 different languages.
All the products and services are easy to use – all you have to do once you receive your system is plug the base unit into a wall outlet, connect the phone cord (if you are using a landline system) and turn it on. If you should ever need assistance, you simply push the button and you will be immediately connected to a trained operator who will assist you or send help if needed. The on- the-go system is just as easy to use. You simply plug in the charger and push the help button should you need assistance. And, the on- the-go help devices are equipped with GPS location services should you ever need assistance, become disoriented, or don’t know where you are. Someone is always there to help.
Expert Examined
From Christopher Norman, a Board-Certified Geriatric Nurse Practitioner with the National Council on Aging (NCOA)
“In my experience as a nurse practitioner working with people with memory loss (and their families), there have been several instances where GPS tracking has prevented harm or been life-saving. One instance involved a person living on several acres of rural farmland: this person was an avid gardener and continued to do so as her dementia progressed. Using GPS tracking and the corresponding smartphone app, her family was able to determine her whereabouts on more than one occasion.”
Fall detection available for an extra $5 per month
Comes with a device finder in case of misplaced or lost device
Has advanced location technology thanks to Wi-Fi, cellular, and GPS technology
Cons:
Limited 24-hour battery life
Requires ongoing, somewhat pricey monthly subscription for services to work
The watch is a bit bulky
Our Experience:
LifeFone offers two at-home devices and four on-the-go devices. The at-home systems start at $24.95 per month, with the option to cancel anytime. It has a 1,300 ft. range from the base. The devices have a decent battery life and a few distinguishing features like temperature sensors.
As for its on-the-go systems, those also come with useful features. While the monthly fees are a bit higher than most other competitors, there are no startup or equipment fees for any of the devices. Monthly prices start at $37.95 and cap out at $43.95. Unlike the home systems, these have unlimited range, since they do work off the AT&T LTE cellular network. The battery life on most of the mobile systems are far more impressive than LifeFone’s home devices. The At-Home & On-the-Go VIPX system has a 10-day battery life, the At-Home & On-the-Go VIP Active system and the At-Home & On-the-Go VIP Flex have a 5-day battery life, and the At-Home & On-the-Go Safe Watch Active has a 24-hour battery life.
All the mobile systems are water resistant and function with Wi-Fi and cellular location services. Fall detection is optional for all LifeFone devices. At $5 extra per month, it’s more affordable than most other medical alert systems. With LifeFone you also get a 30-day money-back guarantee and can cancel any plan at any time.
Product Specs:
Connectivity
AT&T LTE Cellular Network
Fall Detection
$5/month
In-home Range
Up to 1,300 feet from the base / 600 feet from the mobile unit
GetSafe is a relatively new product from the same company that offers one of our highest-rated alert systems, Bay Alarm Medical. It’s a great system for seniors looking to stay safe at home without the hassle of having to wear a wristband or pendant. The system works through a 4G LTE base unit, powered by AT&T cell towers. That means you don’t need a landline, though you do need to make sure your home is an area with a strong cellular signal. It also includes built-in two way talk. The best part, though, is that help is always available, even without a wearable device. Any time your loved one needs help, they or you can say Call 9-1-1 two times. That gets an emergency response agent on the line immediately.
GetSafe equipment costs start at $79 for a base unit, a voice-activated wall button, and a lanyard help button. But you can spend as much as $279 for multiple voice-activated buttons and traditional wall buttons. Monitoring will only set you back $29.95 per month, which is surprisingly affordable considering what you get.
Thankfully, GetSafe does have optional wearables, just to cover all the bases. They also offer a mobile GPS unit for an additional fee. And if you really want peace of mind, we recommend signing up with automatic fall detection — this $10 per month upgrade isn’t 100% accurate all the time, but it’s known to save lives.
All in all, we really think GetSafe brings some much-needed innovation to the medical alert system market. And we’d definitely recommend it to our loved ones.
One-of-a-Kind Service that Connects With Doctors/Nurse Practitioners
Sleek and Contemporary Design
Location Detection for Both the Response Center and Caregivers
Unique features on phones like camera and brain games
Cons:
Design of Battery Case Could Be Better
Activation fees included on some products
Our Experience:
Lively is unique among medical alert companies because they began as a phone company. The fact that their phones were targeted at seniors made it inevitable that they would eventually offer medical alert devices as well. The cool thing is that you can use your phone to get full-service monitoring. No need for extra equipment. Your Jitterbug Smart3 or Flip2 give you all the advantages of monitoring and all the features of a smartphone. You can text, email, check the news, and surf the web, but you’re completely protected in case of a medical emergency.
Of course, if you want to go the more traditional route, Lively has you covered. The company recently introduced a single emergency button you can wear on a lanyard. Even with this device, though, you’re not tied to a home base or a charging station. The button takes advantage of Lively’s cellular network so wherever you go help is just a push away.
Lively is a well-known name with a great reputation when it comes to senior products and services. Lively’s traditional medical alert devices offer three Health & Safety packages that range from $24.99 per month to $49.99 per month that include features such as urgent care (access to registered doctors and nurses), a Lively Link (to stay connected with friends and family), product replacement, and fall detection depending on the package you choose. They have a wide variety of affordable accessories you can purchase as well. And, if you are in need of a mobile phone, they offer flip-phones and smartphones with a 5Star emergency button and other advanced features like brain games and voice typing.
Price Alert: Right now Lively’s Mobile+ plan, which provides you with protection at home and on the go, is on sale for 50 percent off. For just $24.99, you get a waterproof, wearable mobile device that not only lets you press a button for help 24/7, but is also capable of alerting emergency personnel when it detects a fall.
Buttons to Communicate Directly with Caregivers Through the Hub
Motion Sensors on The Hub
Temperature and Air Quality Sensors on the Hub
Fall Detection and Two-way Talk on the Mobile Companion
Location Detection on the Mobile Companion for Caregivers
Caregivers Can Make Direct Calls to the Response Center or to the Senior from the App
Cons:
Somewhat Expensive Equipment
Response Time Could be Faster
Mobile Companion is Somewhat Bulky
Our Experience:
Although Aloe Care Health is relatively new-to-market, you definitely don’t want to write them off. While you have to be careful before investing in younger companies, the truth is that these companies often offer more features at a better price. After all, they’re trying to disrupt the market. Aloe Care has created a niche for itself, targeting families that want or need functions for both the older adult and family caregiver. We recently tested their “Essentials Plus” package and were thoroughly impressed by the advanced capabilities.
Aloe Care Health offers 24/7 coverage with an automatic fall detection option (as expected), but the features and tech really take off from there. The well-designed caregiver app allows you to check in on your loved one, with real-time updates on their activity/movement and even their air-quality. And with voice-activated help calls, seniors can access the emergency helpline using only their voice.
Aloe Care Health offers four different options, including an on-the-go system and three at-home packages that all include an advanced base unit. Aloe Care Health prices start at a reasonable $24.99 per month and range up to $49.99 monthly (for a bundled at-home plus on-the-go system), which is right in line with the industry average. The new Mobile Companion Go will cost you just $29.99 per month, which is a great price for an on-the-go system. However, keep in mind that you will need to purchase the equipment upfront, which will cost you between $100 and $350 — not exactly cheap. But still, we think Aloe Care Health is a great option for seniors who could use a little extra care and coverage.
Product Specs:
Connectivity
Cellular
Fall Detection
Included in some plans
In-home Range
200 feet
Battery Backup
Yes
GPS Option
Yes
Money-back Guarantee
30-day
How We Rank Alert Systems
Our senior care experts personally test, review, and recommend systems that are the best in their category. Everything we publish is 100% unbiased and objective.
And we would never recommend products that we don’t truly believe in. This means you get an expert in your corner to guide you and help you find an alert system that makes sense for your budget and lifestyle.
Our goal is to remain a top resource that helps seniors live more independently with peace of mind. And we can only accomplish this if readers like you trust our integrity and ethics. So we always strive to remain:
Objective
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Helpful
Honest
Trustworthy
About Our SecureScore™
Our SecureScore™ rating system
You might already know that our research and testing results in our proprietary SecureScore™. This score covers 5 important categories: Customer Service, Value, Equipment, Features and Technology, and Ease of Use. In other words, we do our best to get a full understanding of what it’s like to actually use the best alert systems on a daily basis. Then we share our findings with you! We do the homework so that you don’t have to.
Medical Alert System Buyer’s Guide
It’s no secret that there are lots of medical alert systems to choose from. But narrowing down your options and making a decision doesn’t have to be complicated. In fact, it should be easy! That said, you’ll want to look out for little things that can turn into big-time deal-breakers.
For instance, not all help buttons are waterproof (there goes safe showering!). And did you know that some only have a 300 ft. range from the base station, while others work up to 1,300 ft. or more. Also, certain alert systems only work at home, while others work on-the-go. Don’t worry — we’re going to show you exactly what to look for in a medical alert system.
FYI: Most slip and falls happen in the bathroom, that’s why we always recommend a waterproof alert system. With a waterproof device, you or your loved one can bathe or shower without sacrificing safety.
As they say, you don’t know what you don’t know! That’s why you have us. We’re going to cover features and monitoring, monthly costs and fees, customer service, and other important points you should keep in mind. So let’s dive right in.
How to Choose an Alert System – Start Here!
Now, you might be tempted to go straight to the top-rated alert system on the market, place your order, and call it a day. But that could be a mistake. Why? While Bay Alarm Medical and Medical Guardian are ranked #1 and #2 on our list, you should know that each brand out there sells a handful of different devices, each meant for totally different lifestyles.
The truth is, whether the system is for you, or a loved one, which medical alert system is the best depends on how you will use it. Think about activity level and lifestyle: will it mostly be used at home? Or is the user active and out and about a lot? If you love to visit friends, go shopping and lead an active lifestyle, a mobile system like a smartwatch is recommended. But if you spend the majority of time at home, an in-home alert system is the better choice.
FYI: If you or a loved one lives with diabetes, there are a few unique features to look out for when shopping for an alert system. Learn all about it in our guide to the best medical alert devices for diabetics. It’s important to do your research up front, especially since some brands charge high prices for what you get. In our research, we found that while Life Alert’s GPS systems might work for diabetics, Life Alert costs are pretty high.
In-Home Alert Systems – A pendant alert will summon emergency response help at the push of the button. Note that the biggest advantage of in-home systems is their affordability: they range between $19.99 to $29.99 per month. But their main weakness is their short range. Some will keep you protected while you’re in your house and gardening out back, but you won’t have coverage when you leave home. So that’s something to keep in mind.
MobileHelp In-Home Medical Alert Base Station
Pro Tip: In-home or mobile alert? It’s the age-old question. And it’s the primary difference between alert systems. If you can swing the extra cost, we recommend choosing a mobile unit, especially if you or your loved one lives an active lifestyle.
Mobile Alert Systems – We think these are great for active seniors who want emergency coverage on-the-go. Instead of running off your home Wi-Fi network or landline, mobile medical alerts are powered by reliable cellular signals (just like modern smartphones!). This means you can go pretty much anywhere in the country, so long as there’s a cell signal. You can choose from bracelets, necklace pendants, and even fashion-forward smartwatches.
Lively Wearable 2 and Mobile Plus
One nice feature of some mobile alert systems is GPS location tracking. This allows emergency personnel to quickly locate your whereabouts when it matters most. If you have an elderly parent who is prone to getting lost or disoriented, you’ll probably want a mobile alert with GPS. We think you’ll like the unlimited range, but keep in mind they do cost more than at-home alerts.
Getting Set Up
Thankfully, it only takes a few minutes to set up an alert system. Most brands offer plug-and-play setup these days. If you have an in-home unit, you’ll plug the base station into your wall and follow the step-by-step prompts. Mobile units are even easier to get started. So even if you’re not Bob Vila with lots of DIY handy skills, you should have no issues. That said, some seniors choose to have their tech-savvy children set it up for good measure.
How It Works
These devices are meant to save your life during a health crisis or other emergency. Every second matters, so you can imagine that the products are easy to use (actually, they’re foolproof!). And if it’s not easy to use, you won’t find it anywhere on our site.
No matter the time of day or night, all you have to do is press the help button and your alert sends a signal to a professional monitoring center. The monitoring center fields the alert, typically within 20-30 seconds, and they jump into action to get you the help you need. They can call police, fire, or EMS. Alternatively, they can call a friend or family member to check on you.
Did You Know? One of our top-rated medical alert systems, Lifeline, has an impressive 12-second average response time.
Something else to consider when deciding on the best alert device for you is the ability to communicate two ways. This is an important feature to look out for, because with a built-in speaker and microphone, you or your loved one can speak with emergency personnel directly, through either a base station or a wearable unit. Again, we’ve found the vast majority of systems are user friendly and easy to use–but some are easier than others!
Connectivity: Landline or Cellular
LifeStation Mobile LTE Medial Alert
When you’re researching at-home medical alert systems, you’ll notice that many offer either a landline or cellular connection. So what’s the difference? Well, the difference is night and day. We recommend a system that works best for you in communicating with the monitoring center so that you can get help immediately. Remember, seconds matter when it comes to an emergency.
With this in mind, landline alerts tend to be a bit slower, but they are also the cheapest. Cellular systems can be quicker. However, they use the provider’s cellular connection. Choose a cellular system only if you receive a strong signal in the area that you live.
Medical Alert System Costs & Pricing
Equipment & Monitoring
While some brands require upfront payment for equipment, you’ll like that today’s best alert companies include the equipment for free with paid monitoring. So it’s usually pretty cheap to get started. Depending on the type of system you choose, you should expect to pay between $19.99 and $49.99 per month for potentially life-saving emergency coverage. Here’s a basic rundown of monitoring costs:
In-home alert systems (Landline): $19.99-$29.99 per month
In-home alert systems (Cellular): $24.99-$34.99 per month
Mobile alert systems (Cellular): $34.99-$49.99 per month.
Installation & Activation Fees
Some companies, like Life Alert, require miscellaneous fees like membership fees and activation fees. Of course, we’d rather not pay these additional costs, but sometimes it’s worth it. We recommend finding a system that doesn’t charge extra fees (and there are lots out there!). But if you do have to fork out a little more money to get started, just be sure it’s under $100.
We think a company that charges a dime more than $100 just to get started probably cares more about making money than helping seniors. So steer clear of those guys! Thankfully you can get the coverage you need without breaking the bank. Aim to keep your first bill (and subsequent bills) under $40-$50, even with fall detection.
Fall Detection and Other Add-Ons
MobileHelp Fall Detection Neck Pendant
Fall detection is a popular add-on that we’ve tested extensively. It’s usually built into an alert device, and it automatically signals the monitoring center when it detects a slip or fall. Note that most alert companies charge a flat fee of $10 per month for fall detection. But keep an eye out for $5 monthly fall detection — as top brands like LifeFone offer it on-the-cheap.
FYI: Fall detection isn’t 100% accurate, but we still recommend getting this life-saving upgrade. For an extra $10 monthly, your alert system can call for emergency help, even if you’re not able to! That’s money well spent in our eyes.
You can also buy add-ons like a key lockbox to give first responders access to your home during an emergency ($29-$49), a Vial of Life to share your medical history and medications with first responders ($10), and extra help buttons for around your home ($10-$20). We advise you to go easy on the add-ons and upgrades, as you can always buy them as needed in the future.
Our Favorite Features & Tech
When it comes to staying on the cutting edge and continuing to innovate in new and exciting ways, we’ve found there are just a handful of medical alert companies that are above the fray. Bay Alarm Medical, Medical Guardian, and Lively are three companies that are constantly introducing new technology and making advancements in senior safety.
While our list below of the latest (and greatest!) technology isn’t 100% exhaustive, it does cover the main advances in the medical alert industry as of late. Of course, the features and tech will continue to evolve over the years, as competition is sure to drive innovation. Thankfully it’s a win-win situation for seniors and caregivers alike. Here are a few of our favorite alert features.
Medical Alert Device Features and Tech
Feature
How It Works
Automatic Fall Detection
Fall detection uses the same electromechanical technology that airbags use to save lives. With a combination of accelerometers, sensors, and sophisticated algorithms, fall detection devices measure acceleration and changes in velocity. If the system senses a sudden change in speed or velocity, the alert system automatically contacts the monitoring center on your behalf.
GPS Location Services
GPS (or Global Positioning System) uses 30 satellites that orbit 12,500 miles above the Earth’s surface! Now, if you happen to slip and fall while out for a walk, your alert system with GPS will triangulate your exact location using those satellites. This allows a caregiver or emergency responders to find you in a jiffy. Many mobile cellular systems offer this.
Two-Way Communication
The top medical alert systems offer two-way communication, which can save a life in the event of a fall or other emergency. We’ve found that Bay Alarm Medical has one of the best two-way talk features in the industry. The high-output speakers and sensitive microphones allow you to talk with the monitoring center when it matters most. It’s especially helpful for seniors who lack mobility.
4G LTE Connection
Connection speed matters. We’ve found that 4G LTE cellular technology offers the fastest connections. Another nice thing about 4G LTE is that you do not need a landline; in fact, this upgrade is typically cheaper than installing a landline in your home. Just expect to pay an extra $8-$12 per month for this upgrade.
Mobile App / Caregiver Tools
We think you’ll like that select alert systems let you track your loved one’s whereabouts using a modern mobile app. Other than location monitoring (using that neat GPS feature we talked about), you can review activity reports, use two-way talk, receive event notifications, etc. So if you’re looking for a little extra peace of mind, we recommend checking out the Caregiver Connection offered by Bay Alarm Medical or Philips Cares from Lifeline.
Fast Response Times
This doesn’t point to any specific technology, it’s more of a nod to the monitoring centers. A handful of alert systems (see our top 10 list above) are backed by CSAA Five Diamond monitoring centers. These centers are staffed with highly-trained emergency responders. Most offer response times under 30 seconds, with others clocking in closer to 10-15 seconds. Now that’s fast!
Environmental Monitoring
Whether it’s smoke from an electrical fire, or a carbon monoxide leak, you can bet that environmental hazards pose a serious threat to seniors.4 Thankfully, we’ve used a handful of medical alert systems that offer reliable environmental monitoring as an upgrade. You’ll pay a little extra for the sensors, and maybe $10 more per month for monitoring, but we think it’s well worth the cos
Languages Supported
English not your native language? You’re in good hands, as the best medical alert companies now support over one hundred different languages. So long as you choose a company like ADT Health that provides multilingual support, you’ll get the response and care you deserve no matter the language you speak.
FYI: Many medical alert devices use Bluetooth to ensure a reliable connection. Interested in a Bluetooth-enabled system? Check out our in-depth Bluetooth mobile medical alert guide.
Contracts & Returns
Very few companies require lengthy contracts these days, and most don’t require any contract at all. That’s really good news. The way we see it, aging is an uncertain new stage of life, and companies should offer flexibility in their terms and conditions. So keep in mind there’s no need to sign a contract, as there are loads of top quality medical alert systems that offer affordable month-to-month deals.
That said, you can sometimes save money by signing up for longer-term contracts. Many companies, like Bay Alarm, offer discounts when you commit to quarterly or annual plans.
You’ll also want to look for other customer-friendly policies like money-back guarantees, free activation, free shipping, and the like. The truth is, alert systems are becoming more popular every day, so companies are scrambling to secure their share of the market — which means deals and discounts for folks like you!
Does Insurance Pay for Medical Alert Systems?
We offered information on Medicare coverage in bite-sized pieces above. You may be thinking: doesn’t this cover everyone using medical devices? The vast majority of individuals who use or might benefit from using a medical alert device receive their medical benefits through some form of Medicare. But not everyone. Below are a few other groups of people who might be seeking coverage for medical alert devices.
Individuals who work past the Medicare-qualifying age of 65 and continue to use their employee group health plan.
Individuals who are 65 or older and are using a working spouse’s employee group health plan.
Individuals who have not yet turned the Medicare-qualifying age of 65 but have a medical condition requiring the use of a medical alert device.
(One other group not yet mentioned are individuals using Veteran’s benefits. We will discuss these benefits in more detail below.)
The three groups of individuals mentioned above use either job-based insurance plans, plans bought directly from insurance companies or plans purchased through the “marketplace” set up by the Affordable Care Act (ACA).
We have noticed that health insurance plans are covering more and more preventative services than they have done in years past. So whether private insurance companies completely cover or discount medical alert devices is a great question to ask. Unfortunately, the answer for most insurance companies is no, medical alert devices are not covered by insurance. We do recommend contacting your provider to learn about the specifics in your policy.
Does VA pay for Medical Alert Systems?
From what we’ve seen, the Veteran’s Administration (VA) partners with two medical alert companies and offers specific devices sold by these companies to eligible veterans free of charge. Excellent news, right?
Here’s the nitty gritty:
LiveLife Mobile Alarm offers a wearable device that provides a great basic level of protection. Their pendant is worn around the neck and is programmed to text and call designated contacts including 911. Because it connects to a 4GX network, it also includes two-way talk and location detection. One thing to note: it doesn’t include (and this is an integral piece of most other systems) the ability to connect with a certified, 24/7 monitoring center. However, the device does include fall detection, a feature that we think is very important.
The other available device is offered through MedEquip Alert. Worn as a necklace or clipped to a belt, it runs on an LTE wireless service so can be used both at home and while away. The device does include two-way talk with a 24/7 monitoring center. We also like the GPS tracking. It does have one disadvantage – no fall detection.
Though each system is missing one or two features found in other systems, we love that the VA provides a basic level of safety and protection to our older veterans. As you can see above, full insurance coverage of medical alert devices is uncommon – it definitely is not a standard insurance benefit. It is great to see that this benefit is going to our veterans.
And, the VA offers one more option for seniors looking for medical alert systems. If a veteran prefers another system, perhaps one that is more comprehensive, no problem. VA Medical Health Care will provide partial coverage.
Our Expert Recommendations
If you’re on the fence about getting an alert system for yourself or a loved one, we’d like to encourage you to go for it. These devices will almost certainly give you greater peace of mind, and they could even save a life.
As far as our recommendations on individual devices and alert companies, we’ve revealed those above in our ‘Best Medical Alerts Systems’ list. You really can’t go wrong with any of those brands, but a few of our favorites are Bay Alarm Medical, Medical Guardian, and LifeFone.
The truth is, any protection that helps you age safely and with confidence is better than no protection at all. In other words, any alert system is better than no alert system! That’s an important point we like to emphasize. Thankfully, you can find alerts that cost less than $20 per month, and without contracts or any hidden fees to worry about (we personally can’t stand hidden fees).
All in all, medical alert systems have never been more accessible, affordable, and easy to wear. We hope this comprehensive guide has enriched your search and has helped you to narrow down your options to find the right fit!
It depends. We typically recommend fall detection for seniors who are prone to slip and falls, like seniors with balance problems, bone & joint issues, diabetes, vision loss, and the like. If you or your loved one is still active at home (and away from home), fall detection might not be necessary. But it’s an individual choice that you have to make. The good news is that it only costs an extra $10 per month. And since nearly 3 million older people fall every year and end up in the ER, we think it’s an incredibly important feature to have.
You should certainly consider an alert system for your spouse or partner. After all, if you two aren’t together if/when an emergency occurs, one of you will get the short end of the deal. The good news is that most medical alert companies offer coverage for a spouse or other household occupant at a greatly reduced price. Sometimes they’ll even offer additional coverage for free. So in our eyes, there’s no reason to forego coverage for your spouse or partner.
As experts, we always recommend a full-on waterproof alert device. We mentioned before that most falls happen in the bathtub or shower, so you should think of the bathroom as a hot-spot for medical emergencies. Now, if you go with a water-resistant pendant (or another wearable), it won’t function when submerged or exposed to heavy water use. A waterproof help button, on the other hand, will keep you protected even when submerged. So it’s easy to see the advantage of waterproof alert systems. That said, it’s best to check with the manufacturer to clarify the capabilities of their medical devices before deciding on which one is right for you.
Unfortunately, no they aren’t covered by Medicare at this time. Since Medicare does not consider these devices as a “medical necessity,” they typically are not covered by Medicare Parts A and B.Obviously, the majority of seniors and leaders in the medical alert industry (including us!) argue that alert systems are absolutely a medical necessity. But don’t expect your Medicare plan to cover your monthly monitoring fee. With that said, in some cases, Medicare Part C does cover alerts. It’s also worth noting that certain healthcare reimbursement accounts (HSA’s) cover alert devices as well.
That’s an easy one to answer! We recommend you get an at-home system if you (or your loved one) spends the majority of your time at home. However, if you live a more active lifestyle and leave home often, we recommend getting a cellular mobile alert system.
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After earning a degree in journalism, Jenny Wisniewski spent much of her professional life in education; however, she returned to writing in earnest in the senior care space, acting as caregiver to her mother. She has hand-tested the industry’s top medical alert systems, writing nearly 50 in-depth articles that help seniors age safely in place. Jenny also covers caregiving, Medicare, assisted living, memory care, and Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases. Previously, she’s written for national publications such as Country Magazine and Sierra Magazine. Jenny holds dual bachelor’s degrees in English/Journalism and Political Science from Miami University in Oxford, OH. She currently resides in Milwaukee, WI.
Updated November 15, 2024
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