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Best Medical Alert Systems for Elderly

Written By: Nathan Justice
Reviewed By: William Rivers
Published: November 20, 2020
Last updated: September 25, 2023

Finding the best medical alert systems for the elderly is crucial — especially for those who live alone. With a medical alert system in place, the elderly can get immediate medical assistance in case of emergencies. A medical alert system can even help the elderly during fires or natural disasters. This is why they are sometimes known as 911 medical alert systems.

But what exactly are these devices? A medical alert system is a device with a help button that an elderly can press to immediately call a live agent. Instead of dialing an emergency phone number, a single press of a button connects the elderly to an emergency response center where trained agents will be able to help them.

Immediately receiving medical assistance may spell the difference between life and death. This is of particular importance in the US where 27% of adults ages 60 and older live alone.

How Do Medical Alert Systems Work?

A basic medical alert system has a base unit connected to a landline. The said base unit is connected to a portable help button that an elderly can wear around the house.

A more advanced emergency response system will use cellular technology and GPS. This kind of system is designed for those who like to move around but are likely to need emergency assistance due to illnesses or disabilities.

The Best Medical Alert Systems for Seniors in 2021

Check the reviews below to get a closer look at the 10 best medical alert systems available in the market.

1. Bay Alarm Medical SOS Smartwatch

Why Get This Medical Alert System?

  • Stylish smartwatch
  • Live agent assistance
  • Has own cellular network
  • Long battery life

Bay Alarm Medical veers away from the traditional medical alert systems with their SOS Smartwatch. As its name implies, this is a medical alert system incorporated into a fully-functional watch.

The SOS Smartwatch is stylish and easily goes with whatever type of clothing an older adult chooses to wear. It is inconspicuous and won’t draw attention to itself which makes it ideal for elders who do not like the idea of wearing a medical alert system whenever they go out.

The dedicated SOS button is on the side of the watch where there is no possibility of accidentally pressing it. In case of emergencies though, a simple press of the said button and a live agent can assist an elder.

During emergencies, a live agent will initiate two-way communication with the wearer of the SOS Smartwatch. The said agent can also track the location of the wearer and send help. The live agent can get in touch with family members, neighbors, and even send 911 emergency responders if needed.

Unlike most life alert devices, there is no need to connect the SOS Smartwatch to a mobile phone or a landline. It comes with its own 4G LTE Sim Card that provides excellent reception anywhere the wearer goes.

The SOS Smartwatch has an internal battery that works for up to 24 hours when fully charged. Recharging it is easy since it comes with a charging cradle. Just place the smartwatch on the charging cradle so it can replenish its battery.

2. MobileHelp Solo

Why Get This Medical Alert System?

  • Waterproof Help Button
  • U.S.-based emergency response operators
  • No cellular contract, no activation fee
  • Free equipment and free shipping
  • Free security lockbox

MobileHelp Solo is a cellular-based on-the-go medical alert system. It allows the user to get medical assistance with the push of the Help Button. The package includes a mobile unit that works at home and on the go.

There is also a Help Button that the user can use to summon help during emergencies. The Help Button is capable of working as a two-way communications device between the user and MobileHelp’s Response Center representative. MobileHelp employs U.S.-based emergency response operators. These operators have certification from the Security Industry Association.

MobileHelp Solo is equipped with GPS to allow easy tracking of the wearer. The Help Button is made of waterproof materials which makes it ideal for outside use. Because of its waterproof design, there is no need to worry about the Help Button not functioning properly during harsh weather conditions.

All equipment is free of charge while the user is actively subscribing to a MobileHelp service plan. MobileHelp Solo uses AT&T’s cellular network but does not require the user to enter into any cellular contract.

MobileHelp Solo comes with a free security lockbox. This will allow emergency responders to enter the user’s home during emergency cases without causing damage to doors or windows.

MobileHelp Solo does not require an activation fee. The entire system will also be sent to users without any shipping fee.

3. Medical Guardian’s Home Guardian

Why Get This Medical Alert System?

  • Effective range of 600 feet from the base station
  • Waterproof emergency button
  • Power Outage Protection
  • Multi-purpose base station
  • Informative LED display

Medical Guardian’s Home Guardian is a non-landline medical alert system. It comes with an easy-to-install base unit. It also comes with a wearable emergency button. The emergency button works within 600 feet of the base unit.

The medical alert system is connected 24/7 to a medical alert monitoring center through AT&T’s cellular service. The cellular service is a part of the subscription and does not require a separate mobile service plan.

This is an ideal medical alert system for elders who seldom leave their homes. The user can wear the waterproof emergency button even while working on the garden, as long as the user stays within the effective range of the base unit.

The emergency button doubles as a communicator that the wearer can use to speak with a live agent in case of an emergency. The built-in speaker has volume control which makes it ideal especially for elders who have hearing difficulties.

The base station of the Home Guardian is versatile and multi-purpose equipment. Just like the wearable emergency button, the base station also has a loudspeaker. It has an LED display screen that shows the current date, time, and temperature. It also shows the signal strength of the system as well as the remaining battery life of the base station.

The base station has Power Outage Protection. It has a back-up battery that can last up to 30 hours. This ensures that the user has continuous access to emergency assistance even during prolonged power outages.

4. Medical Alert On the Go + Button

Why Get This Medical Alert System?

  • Two wearable emergency buttons
  • Free Lockbox for annual plan
  • Has a monthly plan
  • One month free for annual service plan
  • Free shipping fee for annual service plan

Medical Alert’s On the Go + Button is an excellent medical alert system for elders who might need emergency medical assistance both in and out of their homes. Aside from the base station, the package comes with a wearable help button.

Users have the option to use either the neck-worn emergency button or the wrist-worn button. Both mobile help buttons work on AT&T’s cellular network which makes them fully-functional even without a landline phone. These wearable emergency buttons have batteries that can power the devices for up to five days.

Both the neck-worn and wrist-worn emergency buttons have built-in speakers that the user can use to communicate with emergency response operators. Emergency response operators are trained to properly assist users in case of emergencies. The operator can stay on the line with the user until such time that an onsite responder arrives.

A user can opt for a monthly, semi-annual, or annual service plan. This gives the user the option to try the service for a month or two before deciding to go for a longer plan.

The semi-annual and annual plans have discounted rates. The annual plan also comes with a free Lockbox that can come in handy especially for those who live alone. Medical Alert also offers one month of service plan for free for those who choose the annual plan. The shipping fee for annual subscribers is also free.

5. LifeFone At-Home Landline

Why Get This Medical Alert System?

  • Extended effective range at 1,300 feet
  • Good microphone for those hard of hearing
  • Free equipment
  • Free Basic Service coverage for spouses
  • 30-Day Money-Back Guarantee

For those looking for a landline-based medical alert system with a wide range, LifeFone’s At-Home Landline is a great choice. The strong signal strength of the base unit allows the wearable help button to work up to 1,300 feet from the base unit.

The base unit can also work as a help button. It has a built-in speaker to allow clear 2-way communication during emergencies. Emergency Care Agents are available 24 hours a day to respond to emergency calls. The microphone of the base unit is an ultra-sensitive type. This type of microphone works well even for the elderly who may be hard of hearing.

The help button may be worn around the neck or on the wrist. It is lightweight and waterproof. Because of its compact design, a user can comfortably wear it while performing household chores. An elder can even wear it while taking a bath without the fear of damaging the help button.

At-Home Landline has no activation or equipment fees. Spouses also automatically receive free Basic Services.

The service comes with a 30-day Money Back Guarantee. This is good news for those who haven’t tried the service yet. The service doesn’t come with a contract which means that a user can cancel the service at any time without worrying about cancellation fees. The user just needs to pay for the time used before the cancellation.

6. Alert1 In-the-Home + Fall Detection Medical Alert

Why Get This Medical Alert System?

  • Competitive pricing
  • Includes Fall Detection
  • Works within 400 feet of base unit
  • Clear and loud speaker system
  • Long batterylife

For those looking for a competitively-priced medical alert system, Alert1’s In-The-Home alert system might be a great fit. This landline-based medical alert system costs just under $30 per month.

Alert1’s service plan already includes Fall Detection which is usually an add-on for other plans. Fall Detection automatically places a call to Alert1’s 24/7 command center in case the pendant detects a fall. However,

Fall Detection technology is not 100% accurate. It is still best to press the help button if the wearer requires assistance.

Alert1’s package comes with a home unit and a wearable pendant that holds the help button. The pendant works within 400 feet of the base unit. This may be a limited range for some. If the user requires a medical alert system that has a better range, Alert1’s On-The-Go system is a great alternative.

The pendant is showerproof so the user is always protected even inside the bathroom. There is also no need to replace the battery of the pendant. The battery can last up to two years and the pendant gives out a warning in case the battery runs low.

The base unit also doubles as a two-way voice communicator. It has a loudspeaker that’s as loud as a mobile phone on speaker mode. This guarantees that even an elderly who has trouble hearing can conveniently communicate with an operator from Alert1’s command center.

7. GetSafe Medical Alert Standard

Why Get This Medical Alert System?

  • Voice-activated
  • Has a free lanyard help button
  • Options for different house sizes
  • 30-day Risk-Free trial

GetSafe has a simple solution for those who don’t like using wearable medical alert systems, a voice-activated system. Instead of a pendant or a wristwatch, GetSafe uses a wall-mounted voice-activated button.

The voice-activated wall button works just like wearable help buttons. It connects the user to a live agent who can assist with emergencies. Unlike most wearables though, all that a user needs to do to request assistance is to use their voice.

These voice-activated wall buttons still have physical buttons that a user can press in case of an emergency. The package also comes with a complimentary lanyard button that a user can wear in case the user needs to move to an area of the house where there is no wall button.

GetSafe has different options available depending on how large one’s residence is. They have a starter kit for those who live in small condos. The Standard is for those with 2-3 bedrooms while the Select is for those who lives in a house with 4-5 bedrooms.

The only downside with GetSafe’s packages is the price of the equipment. Unlike other medical alert systems that provide free equipment to customers, GetSafe equipment comes with a one-time fee. GetSafe offers a 30-day Risk-Free trial for those who want to check their medical alert system.

8. Philips GoSafe2

Why Get This Medical Alert System?

  • Excellent tracking capabilities
  • Help button doubles as an audio beacon
  • Multilingual Response Center
  • Information-sharing with family members
  • Water-proof help button

Philips Lifeline’s GoSafe 2 is an ideal medical alert system for elders who need a system that can work both at home and on-the-go. It uses an existing cellular network to help an elderly user get in touch with an emergency responder anywhere the user goes.

This is medical alert system is also useful for users suffering from dementia. GoSafe 2 uses five different tracking methods to ensure that information about the whereabouts of the user is always available. On top of GPS technology, the help button also uses WiFi access points to pinpoint the user’s location.

The help button can also emit an audio beacon to help responders quickly find a user. GoSafe 2’s help button also doubles as a two-way communicator that enables the user to communicate with an emergency responder and vice versa.

An elderly individual can safely wear the help button on the shower because of its waterproof design. This is crucial because most accidental falls occur inside the shower. The battery of this help button can last up to 3 days and the user can recharge it even while wearing it to ensure continuous coverage.

Whenever a user needs medical assistance, the user can press the help button to connect to Philip’s Response Center that operates 24 hours a day, all year round. The Response Center employs multi-lingual operators to ensure that a caller can speak to someone who knows whatever language the user knows.

What’s also great about the GoSafe 2 is it records information that is readily available to a user’s loved one. The family member can view the device status online and can easily learn if the device needs maintenance. A family member can also check on notes and other useful content on the Philips Cares app home screen.

9. LifeStation At Home Medical Alert System

Why Get This Medical Alert System?

  • Competitive pricing
  • Waterproof help pendant
  • 500-feet effective range
  • Loud and clear speaker
  • Free shipping fee

For those looking for an affordable yet feature-packed medical alert system, LifeStation’s At Home is an excellent option. It has competitive pricing at just a little over $20 per month. This medical alert system comes with a base unit and a lightweight help button in the form of a pendant.

LifeStation’s pendant is waterproof and is safe to wear even inside the shower. The pendant also has a great range. It can work up to 500 feet away from the base unit. This is more than enough range for most seniors to be able to move freely around the house and even to nearby neighbors.

LifeStation’s pendant also has a powerful speaker. This will allow seniors to properly communicate with a medical responder even if the senior is hard of hearing.

LifeStation has operators standing by 24/7 to assist seniors who need medical attention. These operators can provide clear and precise instructions to seniors in case of emergencies. They can also stay with a senior in need until a medical responder arrives at the scene to provide medical attention.

Seniors have the option to add Lockbox and Fall Detection options. The equipment comes with free shipping.

10. Lifenet Home and Away

Why Get This Medical Alert System?

  • Great for active seniors
  • Waterproof pendant
  • No landline or cellular phone required
  • Fall detection included
  • Free activation and shipping fee

Lifenet’s Home and Away medical alert system is an excellent choice for seniors who are active and are always on the go. This medical alert system does not require the use of a landline or cellular phone to work. It has its own cellular network that ensures that it will work wherever the user wants to go.

The pendant also works as a two-way communications device to allow the senior to speak with medical operators in case of emergencies. Lifenet’s pendant is also waterproof. This ensures that the pendant will work properly even when exposed to harsh weather conditions.

Lifenet’s pendant also has a fall detection feature. This technology automatically calls the attention of medical responders whenever an accidental fall gets detected. This is a crucial feature considering that seniors are prone to accidental falls that can lead to injuries and can be fatal.

There is no cost to activate LIfenet’s medical alert system. Users can also save on shipping fees. If a user is unsatisfied with the product and services, Lifenet doesn’t charge return fees. Users can cancel the services anytime they want to.

The Most Affordable Medical Alert Systems for Seniors

While there are several medical alert systems out in the market, each with their fair share of advanced features and technologies, those who are on a tighter budget need not worry.

Some of the more affordable medical alert systems are just as functional and useful for emergencies as any other high tech model. You can also find great deals on packages that suit your preferences best.

Before coming to a decision on your chosen medical alert system, it's important that you assess your particular needs. Cheaper systems may provide basic services and functions, which could be just enough to ensure that you get the proper help needed during emergencies.

1. GetSafe Medical Alert System

Why Get This Medical Alert System?

  • Voice activation
  • No landline needed
  • Flat rate per month
  • Starting price has a lot of equipment
  • Licensed in 50 states

You may already be familiar with the GetSafe brand because they specialize in home security systems. However, they also have medical alert systems available for those who do not have a landline. Its starter package is priced at $99, and you will then have to pay $24.95 every succeeding month.

The starter package also has four buttons: a voice-activated wall button, standard wall button, traditional wearable button, and a 4G LTE cellular base station. Each of its three equipment plans has a one-time payment.

Should you run into any emergencies or need any assistance, you will be able to seek the help of monitoring professionals. Devices are connected to their base stations through cellular technology.

Despite it being a relatively cheaper option, the GetSafe medical alert system actually has a number of advanced features. It has a built-in voice-enabled technology which lets users call for help instantly. Wall buttons can be dispersed all throughout the home, especially in areas where seniors may be most likely to fall or run into an accident.

2. QMedic Medical Alert System

Why Get This Medical Alert System?

  • Advanced features
  • No activation fees
  • Month-by-month subscription
  • Free ground shipping in the United States
  • Compliance monitoring features

Considering its advanced and proactive features, the QMedic medical alert system is one of the more affordable models in the market. The device does not have any activation fees whatsoever. Those who opt for this model can cut significant costs, especially when it comes to choosing among their various subscription models.

With the QMedic, you do not have to pay upfront for services as they can instead do it month-by-month. However, you may also pay in advance and select a yearly plan pegged at $300, saving yourself $60 in month-to-month costs. There are no activation fees for this system, and ground shipping is free for customers in the United States.

Every QMedic device is leased, and should there be any issues, you can have them replaced for free. Caregivers and companions will be able to add an extra $10 for an additional button to aid in monitoring the user. Monthly monitoring rates are on the lower end of the price spectrum.

Its compliance monitoring features allow a senior's loved ones, caregivers, and healthcare professionals insight on the patient's sleeping patterns, movements, and behavior. They will also be able to determine if the senior has been wearing the device. This compliance feature is quite uncommon in medical alert systems, giving the QMedic a particular edge among its competitors.

These features can cut costs in the long-term, as quick action early on will reduce hospitalization or caregiver costs.

3. Bay Alarm Medical Landline System

Why Get This Medical Alert System?

  • Additional discounts and bundles available
  • Comes with a wearable alert button
  • Low price for most basic package
  • Response time in mere seconds

Bay Alarm Medical's landline system is a top rated product priced at an extremely reasonable $19.95 a month. Its Basic Protection Plan is inclusive of both a wearable alert button as well as a base station. The wearable alert button may either be a lanyard or a wristband. These may upgraded with an additional automatic fall detection feature at $10.

The Bay Alarm Medical Alert System is one of the more affordable options, especially because of the numerous discounts and bundles available. Members of the United Services Automobile Association (USAA), the American Seniors Association (ASA), and the Association of Mature American Citizens (AMAC) are eligible for these.

In addition, those who opt for the Bay Alarm Medical landline system can get this in a bundle with the company's GPS and auto equipment at a discounted price.

The system also has a 32-hour battery backup in case of power outages, and its battery will automatically recharge once power returns.

4. Jitterbug Lively Flip

Why Get This Medical Alert System?

  • Functions as a cellphone as well
  • Amazon Alexa-enabled
  • Specifically created for seniors to use
  • 5Star Urgent Response and 24/7 access to healthcare professionals
  • User-friendly design

Jitterbug is known to create products catered to a more senior demographic. Their Lively Flip may appear to be a cellphone, but it has functions specifically for emergencies.

Aside from its large icons and buttons, its 5Star Urgent Response is integrated onto its keypad. You can also perform other activities as well as make calls and texts with Amazon Alexa.

In case of an emergency, all you need to do is press the button and you will then be connected to a 5Star Urgent Response service agent based in the United States. The agent may then be able to trace your location, assess the emergency, and deploy the kind of help that you need.

There is 24/7 access to board-certified doctors or nurses who can also provide you with prescriptions for medication or medical advice.

Its GreatCall Link keeps your family members up to date with your movements and needs, and they will also be notified if you use Urgent Response. The device retails for $99.99, which is a good deal considering that it is also a mobile phone. Additional fees will apply according to the other packages and features that you want to add.

5. FastHelp Medical Alert System

Why Get This Medical Alert System?

  • No monthly costs
  • Direct line to 911
  • Works anywhere with cell coverage in the US
  • Easily hangs around the neck

The FastHelp medical alert system is simply a mobile gadget that you can hang around your neck. By pressing its large red button, users can immediately get in touch with 911.

Although it does not have fall detection, monitoring technology, or GPS tracking, it can get the most basic of jobs done.

With its two-way speaker, users will be able to stay in contact with responders until help arrives. It can work anywhere in the country, for as long as there is cell coverage.

One caveat of this medical alert system is that the user must be conscious enough to stay in touch with the responder throughout the emergency ordeal.

6. Medical Guardian Classic Guardian System

Why Get This Medical Alert System?

  • Range of 1,300 feet from base station
  • 24/7 professional monitoring
  • Water-resistant buttons
  • Easy and free set up and self-installation

Medical Guardian's mobile home guardian system may be convenient, but its classic model has an even wider range of 1,300 feet from its base station. The Classic Guardian works with a landline, beginning at $29.95 monthly.

This model has three components upon purchase: a base station, a bracelet help button, and a necklace with a pendant. Medical Guardian's Classic Guardian has easy two-way communication with 24-hour emergency monitoring for those based in the United States. It also has power outage protection.

With the Classic Guardian, you will also be able upgrade your model with additions such as a system protection plan, lock box, fall alert pendant, voice-activated wall buttons, and other medical alert buttons.

7. MobileHelp Classic Medical Alert System

Why Get This Medical Alert System?

  • 30-hour backup
  • Fall detection at an additional $10/month
  • Shower-proof and water resistant
  • Cellular connection

MobileHelp has several products at different price points, but their classic system is a great option. Should you decide to go for add-ons, it offers some at the most affordable prices in the market. The MobileHelp Classic Medical Alert System is priced at $19.95 monthly, with a one-time fee of $49.95.

This is quite affordable, given that the in-home system is powered by cellular connection as opposed to the more traditional landline.

Its wearable button is water-resistant and shower-proof, with a range of 1,400 feet. It has 24/7 monitoring in the US. there is also a risk-free 30-day trial period, in case you want to assess how well this medical alert system works for you.

You can install this system easily, and it is also compatible with a MobileHelp Fall Button. You will not need a cellular contract, long-term contract, or landline to use it.

8. Medical Care Alert's HOME & AWAY PRIMO

Why Get This Medical Alert System?

  • 4-day back-up
  • GPS and WiFi
  • On-demand location tracking
  • Free trial

Medical Care Alert is an A+ rated company by the Better Business Bureau. It has also been awarded the Monitoring Center of the Year Award by the CSAA Insurance Group.

Medical Care Alert has five systems of varying features and functionalities. Its top of the line product, the HOME & AWAY PRIMO is of excellent quality at a monthly cost of $39.95 for a semiannual plan.

Add-ons are also very much affordable. It is the same price as the HOME & AWAY ELITE, but it comes with WiFi signaling for sharpened location detection.

This mobile system has a four day battery life. Its Track & Find feature offers on-demand location tracking as well. The HOME & AWAY PRIMO has a free trial, free equipment shipping, free EMS lockbox, and no activation fees.

9. ResponseNow Belle

Why Get This Medical Alert System?

  • No starting costs
  • Single charge lasts 30 days
  • Lifetime price guarantee

The ResponseNow Belle is the company's middle range option and most affordable mobile-type of device. It has no starting costs.

This all-in-one device has a two-way speaker, as well as a personal help button. It works anywhere in the US as it uses AT&T as its cellular network.

A single charge of this device lasts up to thirty days. It has 24/7 monitoring nationwide. All of the company's packages, plans, and systems have lifetime price guarantees.

For as long as you remain a ResponseNow user, you will be paying the same price you initially bought the system. You will also have a lifetime replacement warranty.

All in all, the ResponseNow Belle is an excellent choice for seniors who are still active and on the go. Systems can connect to emergency response operators in as short as thirty seconds to a minute.

10. Prime Medical Logicmark Life Sentry

Why Get This Medical Alert System?

  • Built-in speaker on pendant
  • Water-resistant pendant
  • 24/7 911 monitoring

One of Prime Medical's most popular products is their Logicmark Life Sentry. This model features a wearable pendant with speakers that allow users to talk to 911 operators when needed.

You do not need a home phone to use this device as it can be retrofitted to function without one. No long term contracts are needed.

Users can call for help in anywhere within a home of up to 5,000 square feet. You can also customize your emergency contacts, and personalize the means by which the dispatching of EMTs occurs. There is 24/7 monitoring by 911 as well.

How We Choose the Best Medical Alert Systems for Seniors

Because of the crucial role that medical alert systems play in the safety and security of elders, a buyer needs to consider some factors when choosing a medical alert system.

In-home or Mobile

Originally, medical alert systems were intended for just home use, as they used to only work with landline telephones. Today, with the advent of cellular phones as a major communications device, most mobile alert companies now have in-home systems that work over a cellular network.

That said, there are two main types of medical alert systems: a home-based one and a mobile system. This is especially useful for those who only have cellular phones instead of landline phones.

In choosing our list, we made sure that the medical alert system can function properly over extended distances. We also made sure that the medical alert system works well even in areas where cellular networks may encounter difficulties.

Live Agent 

Having a live agent to talk to any time of the day or night is another crucial factor that took into consideration. This is because they can provide the elderly with instructions or guidance where needed.

We also took into consideration the type of live monitoring capabilities that a medical alert system has. This is vital for elders who live alone. Live monitoring will help ensure that an elder takes medication on time and with the correct dosages.

There are also systems that do not include live monitoring. With those systems, in cases of emergencies, instead of an alert getting sent to a live agent, the alert gets sent to a family member or a friend.

Features

Medical alert systems have basic features that almost all systems have. However, some home medical alert devices go the extra mile and include features that are nice to have. These features may not crucial but they are still helpful and may come in handy during certain situations.

Price

The cost of medical alert systems is something that almost all buyers consider. When we look at the pricing of the the best medical alert systems on our list, we did not just look at the dollar value — we looked at the price in relation to the number of features and the overall quality of the home medical alert device.

Customer Feedback

The best way to gauge the effectiveness of a medical alert system is by looking at the experiences of those that have the first-hand experience in using them. We checked the feedback and customer reviews posted by users. We considered medical alert systems for seniors free of negative reviews.

We also considered the feedback not just on the home medical alert device, but on the companies that manufactured them.

Medical Alert System Costs

Medical alert systems have associated costs — all of which can vary. On average, a medical alert system costs between $20 and $50 per month. Some medical alert systems can even go up to around $100 per month, depending on the inclusions and coverage.

Aside from the monthly service charge, there are also other fees that are involved with getting a medical alert system. For instance, this can include activation fees, add-ons, and upgrades.

Some medical alert systems also come with a contract. This means that terminating the service before the fulfillment of the contract agreement will result in a termination fee. Fortunately, this is only a one-time fee.

Choosing an excellent medical alert system doesn’t mean choosing the most expensive one. As we've listed, the best cheap medical alert systems have great features while remaining competitively priced.

Different Packages for Medical Alert Systems

The price of a medical alert system depends on what is included in the package that a user will get. There are usually three different packages that a user can avail of: At Home Landline, At Home Cellular, and Mobile. Among the three, the most affordable one is the At Home Landline option while the most expensive one is the Mobile option.

Features

Aside from the three base systems mentioned above, medical alert system packages may differ depending on the features and add-ons included in the package. If you’re looking to add more features to your medical alert system, you will get charged an additional amount on top of the basic monthly fee.

If you want to save money, carefully analyze the features and add-ons. Get only add-ons that are vital for the end-user.

Some of the most common features and add-ons include:

Geofencing

Geofencing uses GPS or RFID technology. It creates a virtual boundary where an elder can roam around. If the elderly enters or leaves the pre-set boundaries, an alert gets issued. Medical alert systems with GPS are vital if the elders suffer from dementia.       

Language Options

Having a mobile alert system that is available in other languages can be of great help for those who are unable to speak or understand English. It will help ensure that the elder will be able to easily follow instructions.

Lockbox

A medical alert lock box is a secure lockbox that an emergency responder can use to access a house during emergencies. This is ideal for those who live alone. With a secure lockbox installed, there is no need for emergency responders to break doors or windows just to get inside a house and help the elderly.

Fall Detection

Some medical alert systems have automatic fall detection capabilities. In cases when the medical alert system records a fall, the system automatically sends out a call for help.

Falls cause fatal injuries to the elderly. It is among the most common cause of non-fatal injuries and the leading cause of fatal injuries to older adults. Around 27,000 deaths among older adults stem from falls.

Medical alert systems with fall detection are not yet perfect and they cannot detect 100% of falls. However, this can still be potentially life-saving for elders who are unable to call for help in case a fall occurs and gets recorded by the system.

Price Range and Coverage of Medical Alert Systems

As mentioned earlier, there are different medical alert system packages that the elderly can avail of. Each package has its coverage and inclusions. Basic features included in almost all packages include 24/7 monitoring, fall detection, and a 911 alert system.

At Home-Landline Alert Systems

This is the most basic and affordable medical alert system available. It is meant for those who do not venture far from their homes. An At Home-Landline Alert System includes a base station connected to a landline. It also comes with a help-button that the elderly can press in case of emergencies.

This kind of medical alert system has a limited range that is usually between 400 to 1,000 feet. This means that the alert system will work properly as long as the user stays within the said effective range.

More expensive units have effective ranges that may work up to within 1,500 feet from the base unit. Basic At Home-Landline Alert Systems usually cost around $20 to $35 per month. This is just for the monthly service charge and is exclusive of the cost of the base unit and help button.

At Home-Cellular Alert Systems

This medical alert system works even if the user doesn’t own a landline telephone. This is deemed more effective because of the range that cellular networks provide. Aside from the base station and the wearable help button, this package also comes with wireless equipment.

At Home-Cellular Alert Systems cost between $30 to $45 per month.

On The Go Medical Alert Systems

On The Go Alert Systems are great for seniors who still move around a lot. Unlike the first two system types that only work within the range of a home base unit, On The Go Alert Systems have a mobile base unit that an elder can bring when leaving the house.

The mobile base unit is rechargeable. It also comes with a charging cradle so you can recharge the base unit even when you’re not at home.

Providers of Medical Alert Systems

Depending on the particular kind of medical alert system, providers will differ. Medical alert systems can share service providers with their home phones if they rely on their landlines to function. The same also goes for mobile medical alert systems. Providers may range from AT&T to Verizon to Comcast, among others.

In some cases, however, medical service providers will be in charge of handling subscriptions. They may be the direct providers, with no dependence whatsoever of other specialized retailers.

FAQs

1. Are any medical alert systems covered by Medicare?

Part A and Part B of the Original Medicare does not cover medical alert systems. However, medical alert systems may be covered by Medicare if the user has Part A and Part B through a Medicare Advantage plan. To get more information about medical alert systems covered by Medicare, be sure to check Medicare’s website.

2. What is the best medical alert system?

The best medical alert system is a system that provides all the medical needs of a senior while maintaining competitive pricing. There is no clear-cut best medical alert system because every senior has needs that may differ from those of others.

Some users require special features like fall detection or hands-free functionalities that other users may not need.

3. How do medical alert systems work?

Medical alert systems work by providing a senior a means of getting 24/7 medical assistance. A dedicated team of responders is on standby to assist users of medical alert systems. Most are non monitored medical alert systems since the user needs to actively call for assistance by pressing a help button.

4. Does insurance pay for medical alert systems?

Just like Medicare, most private insurance companies do not cover medical alert systems. Some private insurers do offer discounts or referrals. It is best to consult with a representative of your insurance company to be sure if medical alert systems are covered.

In some states though, Medicaid provides coverage for part or the entire cost of medical alert systems.

5. Does AARP cover medical alertsystems?

Yes, this is one of the advantages of being an AARP member. A member of AARP is entitled to discounts for medical alert systems. AARP medical alert systems will have more competitive pricing because of the said discounts.

6. Are medical alert systems covered by Medicare?

Some Medicare Advantage plans provide coverage to medical alert systems. However, this coverage is not standard and only comes as a bonus benefit.

7. Is a medical alert system tax-deductible?

Although medical alert devices are not specifically part of the IRS’ list of qualifying medical costs, they may fit the category of equipment expenses.

They may fall under a.) Equipment that’s prescribed by a physician to aid a person living with a specific condition, illness, or disability or b.) Special equipment related to necessary medical care that’s installed in a taxpayer’s home.

8. What to look for in a medical alert system?

The features of a medical alert system that’s deemed vital may differ from case to case. This is due to the different needs of seniors. However, it is best to look for a device with a great range to ensure maximum coverage.

Affordable medical alert systems for senior citizens with great services are also preferred since they can help ease financial burdens.

9. How much do medical alert systems cost?

Medical alert systems may cost between $20 up to $150 per month depending on the type and the included features. This is just the monthly service fee and does not include the cost of the equipment.

10. Are there any free medical alert systems?

There are no free medical alert systems but they might be covered by some insurance companies. Medical alert systems may also under coverage in Medicare Advantage plans.

11. Do medical alert systems interfere with pacemakers?

Medical alert systems do not interact directly with pacemakers. However, it is always best to speak with a personal doctor to ensure that the technology used by a medical alert system will not interfere with a pacemaker.

Still need assistance in narrowing down your options for medical alert systems? Senior Strong is an e-commerce review site that knows all about the best products, tips, gadgets, and advice for the elderly. Contact Senior Strong today!

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Nathan Justice manages community outreach programs and forums that help many senior citizens. He completed a counseling program at the University of Maryland’s Department of Psychology.

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