Medical Alert Systems With Fall Detection

A medical alert system that detects a fall and contacts a call center can provide peace of mind for seniors who are living alone. However, these systems come at a monthly cost for both in-home and mobile devices.

Thankfully, there are alternatives that are less expensive. One option is the Bay Alarm Medical system, which offers in-home and on-the-go fall detection for a low monthly fee.

What is a Fall Detector?

Fall detection is a special feature that monitors movement and can help identify when a user may have fallen. It’s often included as a separate add-on with medical alert systems. Some companies offer a wearable pendant that features fall detection, while others use this technology inside of other devices, like smartphones and smartwatches. For example, Apple’s iPhone 14 and the newer Apple Watch 3 have built-in accelerometers that detect falls.

State-of-the-art fall detection sensors use tri-axial accelerometers, which is similar to the technology found in modern smartwatches and phones. These sensors are programmed to detect the pattern of movement that’s consistent with most falls: a sudden downward acceleration followed by a lack of movement for an extended period of time.

These sensors are paired with gyroscopes and barometric pressure sensor, which increase the accuracy of fall detection and decrease false alarms. They can also be paired with GPS tracking technology that gives loved ones and emergency responders a clear idea of where the device was when it detected a fall, says Gros-Daillon.

The most accurate medical alert systems have a manual call button that users can press after a fall to report the incident, which will cause an agent to check in with the person to make sure they’re okay. They’ll usually ask if they need any assistance, which can be a lifesaver for people who are too injured to get up or to speak for themselves after a fall.

How Does a Fall Detector Work?

Many medical alert device companies offer fall detection technology as a separate feature from their standard devices for an additional monthly subscription fee. Some may also offer it as part of a package with other features. Research and compare the different providers to find out which ones offer what you’re looking for.

Wearable fall detection sensors work by monitoring the accelerometer and analyzing body movements. When the device senses abrupt changes in movement, it will send an alert to the monitoring center or emergency responders. Most of these devices will also include a manual call button that the user can use to report a fall if the automatic sensor isn’t able to detect it.

If a fall is detected, the monitoring center will notify a loved one or a designated emergency contact and send help. Some of these systems will also be able to track the person’s location in real time, so family members or caregivers can check in on them and reassure them that they are okay.

Most fall detection devices are designed to be worn as a necklace or a pendant that can sit high on the chest. This helps the sensor to register a fall more accurately and prevents other rapid movements from being misinterpreted as a fall. As with any other piece of technology, no fall detection device is 100% accurate. That’s why it’s important to look for a company that offers a trial or money-back guarantee so you can test the device out risk-free before committing to a long-term contract.

fall alarms for seniors Which Fall Detector is Right for Me?

If you're considering buying a fall detector, it's important to find one that offers 24/7 monitoring. This way, if you accidentally trigger the alarm (perhaps by bending over or picking something up), a trained operator will be able to tell that it's a false alarm and cancel the call for help.

Bay Alarm Medical is our top pick because it has the best battery life of any device in this category. The company's fall detection pendant batteries last five years and the at-home base station battery lasts two. That's more than twice as long as the next-best competitor's battery, which lasts just over a year.





Medical Alert is another good choice because it includes fall detection in most of its plans without additional monthly fees. You can get fall detection with its Classic Guardian, Home Guardian, Mobile Guardian, and On-The-Go GPS plans. If you're not happy with the equipment or service, you can get your money back within 30 days.

MyNotifi is another good option if you want to avoid paying monthly fees. The company's wearable fall detection monitors cost a one-time fee and don't require a contract. They also offer a mobile plan that lets loved ones see your location. They can also press a button on your pendant to send a message for help. It's best to wear a pendant that is loose enough to be comfortable, but not so loose that it gets caught up on your clothes and won't register a motion.

Which Fall Detector is Right for You?

fall detectors Whether you’re looking for a medical alert system that includes fall detection or want a standalone device, there are many options to consider. You’ll want to think about your needs, such as whether you want a mobile or home based system or if location tracking is important. You’ll also want to consider your budget, because some devices have a one time fee or monthly cost for equipment and shipping.

Some systems require a landline and others don’t, so you’ll have to decide how much flexibility you need. Some devices have a long battery life so that you don’t need to charge regularly, which is especially important if the device will be worn consistently.

Medical Guardian offers a variety of plans, including those with and without landlines and mobile systems, that include automatic fall detection. We love that their pendants look like jewelry, and they’re available in four different styles. They also offer a wide range of add-on features to make sure you’re covered no matter what happens.

If you prefer a wearable solution, consider the Apple Watch with Lively Urgent Response. It’s a cutting-edge smartwatch that can connect to emergency responders or your loved ones and 911. It’s a bit more expensive than other medical alert devices, but it does offer more versatile functionality and is less bulky.