Data published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) shows that millions of people over the age of 65 fall each year, and 800,000 are hospitalized for injuries. What’s more, according to the same document, one fall doubles the likelihood of falling again.
Your independence is precious. You don’t have to give it up just because of your age. You just need a reliable way to get help quickly and easily when you need it.
A medical alert system gives you unlimited support anytime, anywhere, whether you’re home alone or in an emergency while running errands. But with so many different systems on the market, how do you know which one is right for you and your lifestyle? We’ve tested and compared the best medical alert systems to help you stay safe and independent at home and spend more time with your loved ones.
Our Top 10 Best Medical Alert Systems for 2023:
- Medical Guardian. Best Medical Alert System Overall
- ADT Health: Best for Fixed Monthly Pricing
- MobileHelp: Best for its telemedicine capabilities
- One Call Alert: Best for households using the same system
- Life Alert: Best for accessing personal dispatch centers
- UnaliWear: Best smartwatch you can find this fall
- LifeFone: Best for daily call subscriptions
- Lively: Best for its wide range of devices suitable for seniors
- Medical Alert: Best for its easy-to-use systems
- Lifeline: Best for its accurate fall detection
Our Methodology: How We Reviewed the Best Medical Alert Systems
To compare the best medical alert systems, we prioritized the most reputable and established medical alert companies. These providers are recognized for their expertise, technology, and ability to deliver fast, reliable care through highly qualified staff. We also used seven questions to rate each of the 10 medical alert system companies:
- How easy is the device to use?
- How affordable is the service? How reliable is the support team?
- Does the system include a fall detection system?
- Is the device comfortable and portable?
- What is its range?
- What technologies make it better than others on the market?
The top 10 best medical alert systems
Chris McDermott, an advanced practice registered nurse and certified life care planner at Intercoastal Consulting & Life Care Planning (ICLCP), says the company’s connectivity options offer consumers “the best of both worlds,” while other devices are limited to landline or cell phone service. He adds, “This service also uses Verizon for its cellular network, which can be helpful if you’re traveling to a location with limited connectivity and have an emergency.”
Medical Guardian offers monthly, quarterly, or annual subscription options, and additional services like fall detection for an additional fee. There are no long-term contracts, and the initial subscription includes the price of the equipment.
Why we chose Medical Guardian: Medical Guardian offers features like automatic emergency response, fall detection, and an extended signal range of up to 1,400 feet. Additionally, its certified Diamond Monitoring Center is available 24 hours a day and notifies your designated contact in emergency and non-emergency situations, regardless of the subscription you choose.
Our Experience: We found the Medical Guardian product questionnaire to be a good indicator of which device best suits our needs. After answering three questions, the site recommended that we try the MGMini Lite, which is perfect for seniors with limited mobility. However, we didn’t like that it asked for our contact information before sharing this recommendation.
Read the Medical Guardian review
PROS
- No contracts or hidden fees
- Offers automatic emergency response in the event of a fall.
- Long battery life of up to 168 hours
CONS
- No free trials
- Some services require additional purchases
ADT Health has access to several monitoring centers across the U.S. and protects nearly six million users. It offers three tiers of service, each with flexible payment options and a lifetime fixed price guarantee. ADT also offers access to additional services, such as home temperature monitoring and 24-hour support.
Its monitoring specialists are trained to help seniors in a variety of emergencies, including health issues. These specialists assess their situation, contact and dispatch emergency personnel to their home, and notify family members if necessary.
Helen Anderson, a nursing care manager at Hello Care in Portland, Oregon, tells how ADT’s temperature detection feature once alerted them that a senior’s apartment was too hot during the summer. They were able to enter the home and discover that the air conditioning circuit breaker had tripped. She adds, “For seniors living alone, the risks are unpredictable, so a system that detects falls and extreme temperatures provides more options.”
Why we chose ADT Health: This service offers a free waterproof wall button for added protection in the shower. ADT also includes two-way communication with all plans to ensure customers can reach support if needed.
Our experience: We liked that ADT Health delivered and activated the medical alert system at no additional charge. We also appreciated that their website clearly explains who each level of service is for. For example, it states that the Medical Alert Basic system is suitable for people who mostly stay at home and have a landline phone.
PROS
- Monthly costs are guaranteed not to increase.
- Free delivery, activation, and equipment.
- It offers a six-month money-back guarantee.
CONS
- Basic devices are limited.
- No daily check-in service.
With MobileHelp, you can choose between a home or on-the-go system, or a package that combines both. These medical alert systems are ideal for seniors who spend most of their time at home, and for active older adults who enjoy being outdoors.
MobileHelp devices include several valuable additional services, such as MD Live and Mobile Vitals, which help seniors take charge of their health and maintain their independence. For example, MDLive offers telemedicine services that allow you to connect with a certified doctor via video call.
John Buchanan, a registered nurse and former emergency room physician at St. Francis Hospital, recalls caring for an elderly woman who had fallen and hit her head. She lived alone on MobileHelp and spoke only Spanish. Fortunately, the monitoring representative at the base unit was able to translate. She had informed John’s team that the patient was taking blood thinners, so they had brought her to the hospital as a precaution. Further tests revealed that she was bleeding internally. John explains, “Without an interpreter, we might not have known her medical history or what medications she was taking.”
Why we chose MobileHelp: This provider lets you try their service for 30 days. When you sign up, they don’t ask you to sign a contract or pay any equipment fees (for six of the eight products they offer).
Our experience: We like that MobileHelp offers a wide range of additional services. We also appreciate their fast response times (average 1 to 15 seconds), which is a testament to their fast and attentive service.
PROS
- Fast response times (average 1-15 seconds)
- 30-day free trial
- Access to telemedicine features
CONS
- Some systems have processing fees
- Fee may apply for lost or damaged devices
One Call Alert offers a wide range of affordable, easy-to-install wearables and home devices. The service’s Dual Mobile plan offers users a great deal, combining two wearables for the price of one ($44.95/month).
Its wearables are water-resistant and feature built-in GPS tracking and two-way communication. Additional services are available for an additional fee, such as medication reminders, fall detection, and device loss or damage protection. There are no long-term contracts, upfront activation fees, or equipment fees. Some plans offer free shipping and a free lockbox.
Why we chose One Call Alert: One Call Alert’s basic devices have a battery backup that can last up to 32 hours in the event of a power outage. Their emergency response centers are also available 24/7 in locations across the U.S.
Our experience: Installing our One Call Alert device was very easy; it worked right away. We liked that the service let us test it out for no additional charge.
PROS
- Competitive starting price
- Ideal for two people using the same system
- Devices are easy to install
CONS
- No guarantee that prices won’t go up
- No guarantee
Life Alert is known for its famous “Help! I’ve fallen and can’t get up” TV commercial. They have been offering remote and in-home monitoring since the 1980s.
Their customer service connects you with a consultant who will guide you through the installation process. The consultant will also guide you in using the system and optimizing it for your needs.
There is only one package available (no add-ons), which includes a home base station with a pendant button, a portable “HELP” button, and a waterproof shower button. This service offers a fixed price guarantee, free shipping, and a lifetime warranty, but requires a three-year contract and a $200 activation fee to access their systems.
Why we chose Life Alert: Life Alert offers reliable service and fast response times through its local dispatch center. Its mobile devices provide GPS tracking throughout the United States, and the batteries never need to be recharged; they only need to be replaced every 10 years.
Our experience: We found the Life Alert wearables to be lightweight and comfortable. We also liked that security dispatchers could hear intruders through the base station’s audio monitoring speakers.
PROS
- The devices come with a lifetime warranty.
- The mobile button has an industry-leading 10-year battery life.
- The speakers have voice monitoring capabilities.
CONS
- Requires activation fee and three-year contract.
- It lacks automatic fall detection.
UnaliWear’s Kanega Watch is a smartwatch-like device that connects to cellular and Wi-Fi networks. It offers 24/7 monitoring, fall detection, GPS tracking, and medication reminders. This watch is more expensive than other devices, but it’s quick and easy to set up.
UnaliWear’s emergency response center is Five Diamond certified, and operators are available 24/7. They have access to the medical information you provide when you set up the device so they know exactly what kind of help to send.
Why did we choose UnaliWear? The Kanega Watch is waterproof and has four rechargeable batteries that are easy to replace. This means you never have to take it off, even to take a shower. It can be activated with a button or voice command and has built-in fall detection. GPS tracking makes it easy for emergency services to pinpoint your location when you call for help.
Our experience: We like the Kanega Watch’s sleek design and style. We also like that you can choose from three colors: champagne gold, black, and rose gold.
PROS
- Built-in customer service
- Built-in fall detection
- Accurate location tracking
CONS
- More expensive than other services
- No app
LifeFone has been around for over 50 years. Its plans start at $29.95, with a fall detection fee of an additional $5 per month. The initial subscription price includes the cost of the device.
This medical alert system includes home devices that connect to landlines within a 400-meter radius. They also sell wearable pendants with cellular options, as well as a mobile app for caregivers that allows you to log a user’s daily step goal, view their current location, and check the device’s battery level.
The company offers fixed prices, a 30-day money-back guarantee, and a lifetime manufacturer’s warranty. Their referral program rewards you with a free month of service for every new customer you refer.
Why we chose LifeFone: LifeFone doesn’t charge any activation or processing fees. It lets customers subscribe to daily check-in calls and medication reminders, and its VIPx wearables have a 10-day battery life.
Our experience: We found LifeFone’s system to be well-designed and easy to use, with a simple, stripped-down feature set. We also liked that the company gave us a 30-day trial and said we could cancel at any time without penalty.
PROS
- Fixed price guarantee
- Daily check-ins
- Long-range home devices
CONS
- Home systems without fall detection
- Add-ons are expensive
Lively’s systems are ideal for active seniors who spend a lot of time outside the home. Their devices, which range from flip phones and smartphones to wearable medical alarms, offer on-the-go functionality and have cellular and Wi-Fi connectivity options.
You can also install Lively’s services on any Apple Watch or Alexa device. However, their devices include large screens, powerful speakers, and voice dictation, making them exceptionally convenient for seniors. You won’t be locked into long-term contracts, and the monthly price depends on the service you choose.
Why we chose Lively: Lively offers several customizable packages to suit different needs. For example, the Premium package allows you to connect with on-call registered nurses and board-certified physicians without prior registration. This telemedicine feature makes the system an attractive option for those looking for quick access to professional medical advice.
Our Experience: We liked that Lively allows customers to use more than one device option. We also appreciated that there are no long-term contracts or cancellation fees.
PROS
- Devices designed for seniors
- Customizable health and safety packages
- No long-term contracts or cancellation fees
CONS
- Charges activation fees
- No landline options
Medical Alert offers a home system with a base unit and a waterproof help button that can be worn around the neck or wrist. There is also a wearable option with GPS and a help button that gives you more freedom to move around your home.
Medical Alert plans include access to a free mobile app that connects you directly to customer service, determines your location, and checks the battery status of your device. This company prides itself on industry-leading response times and 24/7 monitoring with access to trained response coordinators. Plus, they don’t charge upfront for the device, setup, or activation.
Why we chose Medical Alert: You can choose a bundled option that integrates your home and on-the-go systems. One device handles all the necessary functions, simplifying the setup and use of your systems.
Our experience: We found the integration of Medical Alert’s devices very convenient. We also liked that the help buttons are lightweight and waterproof. However, we did notice that the mobile devices required daily charging.
PROS
- Easy-to-use system
- The help buttons are lightweight and waterproof
- No initial activation fees
CONS
- No medication reminders
- The mobile device must be charged daily
Lifeline (formerly Phillips Lifeline) has response centers throughout the United States and Canada, with a team of specially trained emergency operators available 24/7. This provider also offers its customers the Lifeline Cares app, which notifies families of any important information or updates about a user’s care. The app includes mobile tools that allow caregivers and family members to check in at any time, even if it’s not an emergency. However, while prices start at $29.95 per month, you’ll have to pay additional activation and setup fees up front.
Why we chose Lifeline: Lifeline’s AutoAlert technology uses what they call a “precision algorithm” to increase the accuracy of their fall detection program. According to the system’s website, this senior safety technology can detect up to 95% of all types of falls.
Our experience: We liked that Lifeline offers users a variety of optional accessories, such as a voice extender, medication dispenser, and lock box. We also appreciated the fact that the device can be installed by a technician.
PROS
- Free Lifeline Cares app
- Average response time of 20 seconds
- Some plans include accurate fall detection
CONS
- Cancellation fees
- Activation and setup fees
Comparing the Best Medical Alert Systems: A Comprehensive Guide
Check out the comparison chart below to compare prices and features of different services and find the medical alert system that best fits your lifestyle. This chart includes information about each system’s monitoring capabilities, device range, battery life, monthly upfront fees, the cost of an optional fall detection system (if available), and whether the company offers trials. Pay attention to the type of connection each system has. If the device connects to AT&T or Verizon cellular networks, you don’t have to subscribe to that network, but make sure you’re within range.
What is a Medical Alert System?
A medical alert system is a type of alarm designed to help you get help quickly in an emergency. People buy them for themselves or a family member for a variety of reasons, such as living alone, being at risk of falling, or having certain medical conditions that may require unexpected medical attention.
Devices offer a variety of protections, including home and on-the-go monitoring, and plans vary in features and cost, depending on your needs and lifestyle.
Choosing the Right Medical Alert System for Your Needs
There are two types of medical alert systems: home systems and wearable systems. Home alarm systems typically consist of a base station and a portable button that can be pressed when you need help. They connect to monitoring centers via landline or cellular networks.
When the help button is activated, the device contacts a qualified operator, who then contacts emergency services or a designated family member, depending on the situation. Home devices are suitable for seniors who spend most of their time at home alone or who only leave the house with caregivers.
On the other hand, on-the-go systems give users more freedom to leave the house unattended. These devices work as long as they are charged and connected to a cellular network.
They also have a portable button that connects to a trained operator and sends help when activated. They don’t require a base station, so you can get on with your day, stay active, and feel safe both at home and outdoors.
Choosing a medical alert system can be complicated; each plan comes with a variety of devices and features. Check for home use, real-time connectivity to a monitoring center, automatic fall detection, and cost.
Before choosing one, consider your lifestyle and level of mobility, the size of your home, your budget, and health risks, such as falling or getting lost outdoors alone. This will help you decide which system best suits your needs: a home or mobile system.
While a home system works best for older adults who don’t go out often, a mobile device is more suitable for those who go out alone to run errands or do gardening.
How much does a medical alert system cost?
A medical alert system can cost anywhere from $20 to $50 per month upfront, but that usually doesn’t include taxes or additional fees, such as activation and shipping.
Once you’ve decided what type of system you want to buy and how many additional features you want to add, you can determine your monthly cost. However, be aware of hidden fees, such as equipment repair and cancellation fees.
Health insurance doesn’t usually cover medical alert systems, but check with your insurer to confirm. You can contact them by calling the number on the back of your insurance card or through their website.
Key Features of Medical Alert Systems
There are several features to consider when deciding on the right medical alert system for you. These include connectivity options, accurate location tracking, two-way communication, and medication reminders.
Below are some important features to consider when choosing a medical alert system.
24/7 Monitoring Services
Your medical alert system should be monitored 24/7 by highly qualified, professional operators who are certified by industry standards organizations such as the Security Industry Association (SIA) or CSA Group. For example, Life Alert has a network of Five Diamond certified monitoring centers throughout the United States. Its operators undergo up to a year of training and study in medical conditions, personal safety, and Life Alert equipment.
Multilingual support
If English is not your native language, look for a monitoring service that has operators who are fluent in multiple languages or who have access to translation services. For example, Lively’s response agents can provide translation support in over 100 languages. Also check the location of the monitoring centers. If they are located outside the United States or Canada, the operators may not be native English speakers.
Landline or Cellular Connection Options
Most companies offer systems that connect to a landline or cellular network. They typically rely on AT&T or Verizon networks to connect your device to their monitoring systems. However, in most cases, you won’t need to sign a contract with these providers to receive monitoring. Your device will work as long as you live or travel in an area where these networks are available.
GPS Location Tracking
When you purchase a wearable system, you may be able to add GPS location tracking to your service. Medical alert bracelets, such as UnaliWear’s Kanega Watch, connect via Wi-Fi, cellular networks, and GPS signals to track your location. In the event of an emergency, the monitoring center can determine your location and direct you to emergency services or caregivers.
Activity Tracking
Some mobile health alarm systems offer activity tracking, which can track your daily step count, heart rate, oxygen levels, and even your sleep. For example, MobileHelp’s activity tracking (which includes fall detection) can help you stay healthy by letting you track your daily activities for an additional $6 per month. This feature ensures that you maintain an active and healthy lifestyle. You can also notify a designated family member if you’ve been inactive for an extended period of time.
Additional Help Buttons Placed Strategically
Additional emergency buttons can be mounted on the wall or in areas where accidents often occur, such as bathrooms or stairwells. They can also be used on bedside tables. For example, Medical Guardian offers two wall-mounted buttons: one that can be pressed and the other that can be voice-activated.
Water Resistance for Increased Durability
The waterproof device cannot be fully submerged in water, but it can be used in the shower or mounted on the wall above the bathtub. Please note the double spacing between the “Alerts” and “Devices” buttons.
Two-Way Communication Capability
Not all medical alert systems allow you to immediately contact an operator when help is needed. Make sure the system you choose offers this feature before purchasing. With some systems, such as LifeFone, you can connect with an operator who will speak with you, assess your situation, and request assistance if necessary. Other systems will call 911 or your designated emergency contact immediately when you press the help button.
Medication Reminders and/or Dispensers
Keep track of your medications and when to take them with a medication reminder. This feature is practical for people who live alone and have to follow multiple daily prescriptions.
It lets you know when it’s time to take your medication, which improves medication adherence and can have a positive impact on patient health. Lifeline offers a programmable medication dispenser to measure and deliver the correct doses prescribed by your doctor.
Caregiver Web Portal or Mobile App
Several medical alert companies offer a web portal or mobile app, some free and others for an additional fee. These apps and portals connect you and your family with your caregiver, helping them better coordinate your care. For example, the free medical alert app uses GPS technology to determine your location in an emergency.
Exploring Different Types of Medical Alert Systems
The two main types of medical alert systems, home and mobile, can be monitored or unmonitored. A monitored system allows you to contact an on-call operator, while an unmonitored system immediately notifies your family member or emergency services without contacting you.
In-Home Devices
A home medical alert system is a base station that connects to a landline or mobile phone network. It usually includes a help button that you can wear around your neck or wrist. You can also purchase additional accessories such as voice extenders and wall buttons. However, with a home system, the wearable device only works if it is within range of the base station, making it an ideal choice for those who spend most of their time at home.
Mobile Devices
Mobile alarm systems connect to the cellular network through various cell phone companies. These devices are usually portable and have a button that allows you to call for help when you are away from home. Many include GPS tracking capabilities, so that an emergency call center or designated contact knows exactly where you are when help is needed. These devices are ideal for active seniors who spend a lot of time away from home.
Understanding Medical Alert System Contracts, Warranties, and Policies
Some medical alert companies do not require a signed contract and only charge a monthly fee when their services are used. However, most providers do require a signed contract. Make sure you understand what you are agreeing to before signing, especially since these companies will likely charge a cancellation fee if the service is interrupted.
In addition to cancellation fees, you should also read your device’s warranty terms to see if there are any hidden fees for replacing a lost or damaged device. Your home insurance policy may also cover your medical alarm system in the event of theft or damage. However, you should check with your insurer to confirm coverage.
Insurance Coverage for Medical Alert Systems
Medical alarm systems can be expensive, so having insurance coverage to cover the costs can help ease some of the financial strain. Unfortunately, most insurers, such as Medicaid, do not cover the cost of medical alarm systems. These programs can vary from state to state, so contact your insurer to see if they offer full or partial coverage, if applicable.
On the other hand, Medicare Advantage, also known as Medicare Part C, may cover at least some of the costs. If you are a veteran or the spouse of a veteran, you may also be eligible for coverage through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits. Check with your VA insurer to see if you can get reimbursement for a medical alert system.
Emergency Medical Alert Systems with Fall Detection
A fall detector can detect when you fall by monitoring your movement using sensors on your wearable device. If it malfunctions, the device automatically sends an alarm to a monitoring center, notifying a family member or emergency services on your behalf. Automatic fall detection typically costs at least $10 per month. However, people who live alone and are at high risk for falls should consider purchasing a medical alert system with this feature.
Wearable Medical Alert Devices: Convenience and Safety
The main types of wearable medical alert devices include pendants, bracelets, wristbands, and smartwatches. These devices provide access to emergency help no matter where you go. They are usually waterproof and can be worn in the shower and at night while you sleep. Some medical alert companies offer additional services with wearable technology, such as medication reminders and activity monitors; some can even measure sleep quality. Also, since you will be using the device almost all the time, you should choose one that is comfortable and easy to use.
Medical Alert Systems Tailored for Seniors
Medical alert systems create elder care solutions that allow seniors to enjoy their independence for longer in a safe environment. Home and mobile medical alert systems reassure seniors that help is just a button away in the event of a fall or emergency.
When seniors live alone, they often need home health monitoring for medical and non-medical emergencies, such as difficulty breathing or feeling unwell. Medical alert systems can reduce the risk and fear of living alone by ensuring that seniors have access to help when they need it.
Additional Medical Alert Systems We Reviewed
In addition to the medical alert systems included here, we have also reviewed other providers worth exploring.
LifeStation. Ideal for personalized emergency action plans
HelpButton. Ideal for active older adults who frequently hike and enjoy swimming
Constant Companion: Ideal for caregivers and nursing homes
Aloe Care Health: Ideal for accessing a searchable online knowledge base
GetSafe: Ideal for voice-activated emergency buttons for seniors
Further Exploration and Resources
Allergy Safety: How Medical Alerts Can Help
9 Ways a Smartwatch Can Improve Your Health
What are Non-Monitoring Medical Alert Systems and Should You Get One?
Natural Intelligence does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you think you may be having a medical emergency, call your doctor or local emergency number immediately.
