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We ranked the best medical alert system watches based on form, function, and fashion so you can stay safe in style.
Updated October 28, 2024
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If you have a loved one who’s getting a little older, you want to make sure they’re safe. Safety for seniors means more than just a home security system. It means equipping them with the means to get medical help should they need it. This doesn’t mean they’re incapable of caring for themselves, but let’s face it, as we age, the odds of accidents go up.
If someone you love is getting older, you also know that seniors can be resistant to medical alert systems. None of us wants to admit we’re getting older, but more than that, none of us like change.
Enter the medical alert system smartwatch. Many of the biggest names in the medical alert industry now offer them. They give a nice mix of features that can satisfy you and the senior in your life. While these devices have all the necessary features to keep seniors safe, they don’t look or feel like monitoring devices. They’re sporty enough to masquerade as actual smartwatches, and they have enough built-in tech to help seniors feel like they’re keeping up with the times. Plus, they’re mobile, meaning seniors don’t have to feel like they’re tied down at home. They’re still out, living life to the fullest, but they’re completely protected should they experience a medical emergency.
You don’t want to take a chance when you’re choosing a medical alert system. Lives are literally on the line. So below, we examine three of the best smartwatch options out there on the market. We examine features and response times, and compare prices, so you can pick a device that’s right for you and your loved ones.
Pro Tip: Want a mobile alert system with fall detection and more reliable alerts? Bundle to enjoy huge savings with Bay Alarm’s Mobile 360° package. See all its life-saving protections in our Bay Alarm review.
From Christopher Norman, a Board-Certified Geriatric Nurse Practitioner with the National Council on Aging (NCOA)
| Watches Tested | 12 |
|---|---|
| Top Feature | GPS Location Tracking |
| Test Duration | 7-10 days |
| Equipment Cost | $49.95+ |
| Monthly cost | $24.99+ |
Now, here are some of the best medical alert systems worn as watches.
Medical Guardian’s MGMove offers the perfect fusion of style and function. With core safety features like a 24/7 connection to the Medical Guardian monitoring center, two-way talk, GPS, and location tracking for caregivers, you know your loved ones are safe when they’re wearing this watch. At the same time, this is a watch designed to be fashionable. Its slim, 1.25-inch-diameter face is rounded and sleek, so it resembles serious tech. In fact, the MGMove bears more than a passing resemblance to Samsung’s smartwatches. Appearances aside, though, it’s also incredibly easy to use, so you can be sure the senior adults in your life can summon help any time they need it.
We should point out, though, that fashion doesn’t come cheap. You’ll pay $199.95 for the MGMove, and that’s before you factor in monthly monitoring fees. That’s a lot less than a Samsung smartwatch, but it’s still a hefty chunk of change when you compare it to the price of the average home alert system.
Confession time: we’re getting older. We’re part of Gen X, and while we’re not to the point of retirement for a few years, we can see it coming. We can’t speak for baby boomers, but we like our tech, and we don’t see that changing. Doesn’t matter if we’re retired. We’ll still be playing Ms. PacMan, Super Mario Brothers, MineCraft, and Fortnite. We’ll just have more time to play.
Medical Guardian has us covered. The company’s new MGMove improves on its previous smartwatch offerings. It’s designed to keep seniors safe without sacrificing access to technology. Appearances aside, this is not a Samsung Galaxy smartwatch, but it does come with some nice tech features like a weather app and a step tracker. There’s a Reminder app for keeping track of medication and medical appointments. And there’s two-way texting and voice chat, so seniors can stay in contact with friends and family.
All of this comes in a sporty package. The watch features a rounded face that’s 1.25 inches in diameter, and it looks like serious tech while being easier to use than most smartwatches.
Be aware that the battery life is short at just 24 hours, but that’s typical with these devices. As long as your loved one charges it every night before they go to bed, they’ll be good to go all day long. Monitoring costs $39.95 a month, but that includes access to all the apps and features. You can get the full rundown on what this smartwatch can do by reading through our review of the Medical Guardian MGMove.
Pro Tip: While the MGMove isn’t currently on sale, new users can get 50 percent off an MGMini, MGMini Lite, or MGHome Cellular device. The company will also throw in a free month of service and a lock box.
| Connectivity | Landline, cellular, and Wi-fi |
|---|---|
| Fall Detection | $10/month |
| In-home Range | Up to 1,400 feet |
| Battery Backup | Up to 32 hours |
| GPS Option | Yes |
| Money-back Guarantee | None |
The Bay Alarm Medical SOS Smartwatch includes all the basic functions of a smartwatch, from telling the time to forecasting the weather. Of course, its most important features have to do with keeping wearers safe. Just like a home-based medical alert system, users can get help any time they need it, whether they’re facing a medical emergency or a serious accident. The company’s monitoring agents are specially trained and available 24/7. Unlike home-based alert systems, though, this Smartwatch makes it possible for seniors to get out and enjoy life. Among its other features, it’s water-resistant and includes AI fall detection technology that learns and adapts to users’ movements.
The best part of all? The Bay Alarm Smartwatch is actually more affordable. The downside in this case is that, while the SOS does make use of sophisticated technology, it doesn’t include a ton of features. Apps allow you to track your steps in addition to approaching cold fronts, but there’s no way to set reminders, send texts, or talk directly with caregivers. Worth the price? For sure. But if you’re looking for more features, you’ll probably want to invest in the more expensive MGMove.
The SOS Smartwatch looks identical to the latest MGMove and also offers many of the same features. Unlike other companies that offer smartwatches, this is more than just a button you can wear as a watch. This wearable lets you check the weather, track your steps, set step goals, and has several watch faces to choose from.
Looking at the Bay Alarm Medical smartwatch
The watch is also water resistant and has a water-resistant rating of IP67. That’s just a fancy way of saying it can be submerged in 1 meter of water for up to 30 minutes. That makes things like showering, going for a quick swim, or doing the dishes a breeze.
FYI: Keep in mind that while 30 minutes should be the threshold, most users report some technical issues if they’ve had the watch fully submerged for that long or even a minute more. So, to be safe, we recommend not going over that time limit.
One of the more important aspects of the watch is the ability to add fall detection. Because the SOS Smartwatch has built-in fall detection, you can add it at any point for just an extra $10 per month. This price is a bit lower than the industry standard of $15 per month. Something unique about this watch is that it uses AI technology that learns movements the more you wear it to improve accuracy.
Unlike some other devices, you are required to buy the equipment. Currently, Bay Alarm has the watch on sale for $149, or $179 normally. Both options are still cheaper than the MGMove, which costs $199.95. Of course, you’ll only pay that once and then the device is yours to keep forever – unless you decide to return it for a full refund within their return window. The SOS Smartwatch also requires you to pay $39.95 per month – or $49.95 with fall detection – for ongoing service.
You can learn more about the watch and the provider in our Bay Alarm Medical Review 2024.
| Connectivity | 4G LTE SIM card |
|---|---|
| Fall Detection | $10/month |
| Battery Life | Up to 16 hours |
| GPS Location Tracking | Yes |
| Money-back Guarantee | 30-days |
Of course, if you’re looking for a smartwatch with the most technology and features, you’re not going to do better than the Apple Watch. This isn’t just the gold standard in medical alert smartwatches. It’s the gold standard in smartwatches. Period.
Don’t worry, though. Somewhere amongst all the tens of thousands of apps you can download from the App Store, the Apple Smartwatch does actually function as a medical alert system. It includes an Emergency SOS system, for instance, and with the right equipment, it can keep track of your heart rate. When you add in all the health apps you can download that regulate everything from what you eat to what parts of town are safest, the Apple Smartwatch becomes a sort of medical alert system on steroids.
Of course, you can probably already see the downsides. Beyond a way more expensive price tag than most medical alert smartwatches, access to thousands of apps can be overwhelming for anyone, let alone a senior. Thus, while the Apple Smartwatch can be a viable option for some older adults, it’s probably not going to work in all situations.
FYI: See our list of the best security systems that work with Apple for more on how the industry-leading brand can help you stay safe in your home.
Although not designed specifically as a medical alert device, the Apple Watch can be used as one. The emergency SOS Alert feature, for example, allows seniors to connect with the press of a button to family members, caregivers, or emergency responders in case of an emergency. Emergency SOS can also send your current location to emergency responders. In addition, the Apple Watch has a heart monitor and sends both high and low heart rate notifications.
The watch even offers fall detection though users have to enable this feature. If the watch detects a fall followed by no movement, it sends the wearer an alert. If the wearer doesn’t respond, Apple Watch taps their wrist, sounds an alarm, and calls emergency services.
The watch is waterproof, which is a major plus (for more on waterproof devices, read our review of the Best Waterproof Medical Alert Systems) and it can also monitor for blood oxygen levels as well as irregular heartbeats.
Of course, because the Apple Watch is a smartwatch that can be used as a medical alert device, rather than the other way around, it also offers features you’re not going to find with any other devices on this list– the ability to make calls, for instance, to text, and to surf the web. If the senior in your life is tech savvy, you really can’t underestimate the value of those functions.
The Apple Watch is an impressive device, but it’s not perfect, especially if you’re using it as a medical alert system. One of the areas we worry about most is battery life. The Apple Watch’s battery lasts around 18 hours. That makes sense, given how many functions this smartwatch can perform. Frankly, it’s nothing short of amazing that it can last for 18 hours. The standard for medical alert watches, though, is 24 hours, enough time to get a senior through the day. The worst that happens if you’re an average Apple Watch user and the battery goes out? You can’t text your friends. The worst that happens if you’re a senior and your alert system goes out is a serious medical emergency.
FYI: It’s extremely important to note that Apple Watches are not monitored by medical professionals. The wearer won’t have the assistance of a trained associate available, and vital health information will not be immediately available to emergency personnel.
Another drawback is the cost. The most recent version of the Apple Watch — the Ultra — costs $800. Older iterations are available, though, mostly from third-party retailers. If you don’t need the latest and the greatest, you can pick one up for around $200.
While determining if the Apple Watch is a good fit for you, keep in mind that it was not designed as a medical alert system. It is a smartwatch with some medical alert system capabilities. It enables older adults to press an emergency help button, but it does not connect to a 24/7 monitoring center. It includes fall detection, but because it is worn on the wrist, it might not operate the way you expect. You might save on monthly monitoring fees, but you will also pay a hefty price upfront. Still, if you are techy, style conscious or an active senior, the Apple Watch might just be the right fit.
Need an alert system for someone who rarely leaves their home or yard? We’ve tried out plenty of those. Want a device that wears like a smartwatch? We’ve tested those too, as you can see from our list above. Don’t want to fuss with multiple contraptions or new technology? Yep, we’ve seen products for these folks, as well.
Medical alert systems enable older adults to maintain their independence and age safely in place. If this is your first time learning about these devices, you will probably be amazed to see the variety of products for differing tastes and needs. To help you make sense of the variety, our buyer's guide to medical alert systems is a great resource.
FYI: Maybe you’ve heard these systems referred to as Personal Emergency Response Systems (PERS). Different name; same around-the-clock protection for seniors.
A medical alert system operates either via landline connection or a cellular connection. Most companies that sell medical alert systems offer one or more of three types of systems: in-home, mobile, and hybrid. Of course, smartwatch alert systems are hybrid; they can be used at home and on-the-go, and they are powered via a cellular signal (no landline required).
The in-home system is especially important for seniors who live alone. This type of system usually includes a base unit that should be placed in a central location in the house. The base unit is like the central nervous system; everything else runs through it. It might feel a little weird at first, but if you end up choosing one of these, you will be talking to a response center associate through this box-like communicator.
The Smart Hub, or base unit, from Aloe Care Health’s At-Home System
Many systems include a help button that you or your loved one will wear around the neck or wrist. Some, but not all, systems also include help buttons that can be placed in different locations around the house, usually in spots that are high risk for falls such as the bottom of the staircase. If you or your loved one is wearing a smartwatch style alert system, you won’t have to worry about reaching a wall-mounted button, as help is right there on your wrist!
We think the mobile systems offer lots of value and peace of mind for seniors who are on the go. They come in various forms. Some are help buttons worn around the neck. Others are smartwatches, as noted, or help buttons that can be attached to a belt. And some are specifically made for cars.
Now, imagine that you are having a medical emergency, perhaps a fall or symptoms of a heart attack. You push a help button either on a button placed in your home or on your smartwatch. You often can communicate directly through this button. If the button does not include two-way talk, you can speak through the base unit.
Wearing the One Call Alert Fall Detection Wristband
A trained response center associate will respond to you, usually in 30 seconds or less, and ask you a few questions to assess the situation. If you are unable to speak, the associate will call 911 and your predetermined contacts. The response center also has your medical history and contact information on file, so they are able to quickly provide EMS important information.
Still not sure if this is something you want or need? Most companies offer a trial period of 30 days. And we definitely recommend having some sort of medical alert coverage as you or your loved one ages.
Medical Alert’s On-the-Go System
Before selecting a medical alert smartwatch system, it is important to know what features are available. Here are some of the most important features of medical alert watches.
Unfortunately, medical emergencies happen without warning, and often in the middle of the night. So having access to emergency responders at the push of a button is absolutely priceless. 24/7 emergency response isn’t a luxury, it’s a necessity. Look for this essential feature in your alert watch, and don’t even consider a device without it.
Communication is key in times of crisis. If you experience a medical emergency, having a smartwatch with two-way voice makes all the difference. This feature connects you directly with emergency personnel, allowing you to talk and listen via your device or base station. Responders can gather the full story, and then take the best course of action to assist you.
Medical alert watches with cellular monitoring deliver on-the-go coverage. That’s right, visit the grocery store, the driving range, or heck, travel to another state. Cellular monitoring has you covered. Alert watches with this technology use cell towers (just like a cell phone), so you can go forth knowing that help is literally close at-hand. Active seniors love this feature.
Hold a charge for days! Medical alert watches with extended battery life are incredibly popular among active seniors. And for good reason. This feature allows you to go days — sometimes even weeks — without having to charge your smartwatch. Choose extended battery life on your alert watch, and keep moving with one less thing to think about.
Nearly all alert watches offer fall detection as an upgrade. And it’s worth every penny. The moment this feature detects a fall, it sends an automatic alert to the monitoring center. The emergency personnel then jumps into action, contacting a caregiver or first responders, depending on the situation. And to think all of this is built into a sleek and stylish watch.
Another feature for the active senior, GPS comes built-into many medical alert watches. And it’s powerful. Anywhere you go — whether it’s a quick trip to the grocery store, the community center, or hiking nearby trails — GPS will track your alert watch and keep you covered on-the-go. If an emergency occurs, the monitoring center can identify your exact location for a caregiver or first responders.
Medical alert watches combine form and function — and now far-flung adventures! OK, even if you’re not up for adventures, you can still travel anywhere in the U.S. with Nationwide Coverage. This feature comes with most mobile alert smartwatch systems. So long as you choose cellular coverage, you’ll have the freedom to roam as you wish.
Let’s face it, a frustrating setup process ruins all the fun. That’s why medical alert watches offer Easy Setup. And by “easy,” we mean plug-and-play and you’re off to the races... in a matter of minutes. Companies are eliminating any chance of overwhelm. It’s never been easier for a senior to purchase, activate, and begin using a smartwatch alert system.
Accidents and medical emergencies can happen anywhere, anytime, for anyone. So Mobile Monitoring is a must-have smartwatch alert feature — especially if you’re an active senior who leaves home frequently. These alert systems are powered by Wi-Fi or cellular signal, and they are downright reliable. Get on-the-go protection with a Mobile Monitoring alert watch.
