Medical Alert Systems For Fall Detection

Medical alert systems are great for anyone who is worried about falling. Using motion-sensing technology, these devices can detect a fall and contact emergency services or predesignated caregivers.





Some systems include fall detection as part of the subscription while others offer it as an add-on. Here's what you need to know about this feature before making your purchase.

In-Home Systems

While all medical alert systems help during emergencies, some brands specialize in fall detection. These companies offer a system that detects a fall and automatically calls for help, which is important for seniors who can’t always press the button on their own.

In-home systems use landlines or cellular networks to connect you to the call center, depending on what is most reliable in your area. These systems include a communicator base and wrist/pendant buttons, which can be worn to summon help or used as a fall detector when attached to a lanyard. Lifeline, for example, uses a unique technology that is the only medical alert system on our list to incorporate fall detection into its emergency response pendant. Its automatic detection works when the pendant is pressed, and it’s water resistant so it can be used while showering or bathing.

Most of the companies that offer this technology have plans ranging from $30 to $70 per month with no upfront costs or contracts. Some also have additional devices that can be added, like extra wall buttons or GPS units. They also offer a free trial and allow you to cancel at any time.

While many medical alert systems are marketed to seniors, they can be useful for anyone at risk of falling or having an accident. The call centers in these systems can assist people in both emergencies and non-emergencies, such as if you’re disoriented or have a headache.

On-the-Go Mobile Devices

If you’re on the go frequently, consider a mobile medical alert system with GPS or cellular capabilities. elderly fall alert These devices, which look like smartwatches or bracelets, go with you wherever you are and have a built-in GPS to locate you in case of an emergency or if you wander from home.

The device connects wirelessly to a base unit that you can keep in your home or carry with you when you travel, and it has a help button you can wear around your neck or wrist. Some models also have built-in fall detection, but you’ll have to pay an additional monthly fee for this feature.

When you press your help button, a trained monitoring center professional will connect with you in about 30 seconds (on average, according to our Reviews Team’s testing) to evaluate your situation and determine whether to contact EMS or your caregivers. If a fall is detected, they’ll notify your caregivers, who can then get to you quickly.

Medical Guardian offers an at-home system that uses a landline and a mobile device with GPS, cellular, and WiFi for reliable coverage in any location. Its mobile devices are stylish and include a battery that lasts up to three days, and the company’s Home and Away ULTRA GPS System is our pick for active seniors who want quality coverage when they’re out and about.

Two-Way Talk

Medical alert systems offer a lot more than just a button you push in an emergency. They can include add-on features like activity tracking, medication reminders and automatic fall detection, according to senior care expert Jennifer Prescott. Many also have two-way talk to connect you with a live, reassuring associate in the monitoring center, which can dispatch help immediately if necessary.

A good medical alert system should also have GPS, which enables family members and emergency services to find the device’s location in an emergency. It’s important to find out how accurate the GPS is, which will vary depending on the company and their service area.

Another feature to look for is a voice-activated speaker, which lets you speak directly into the device to activate an alert or turn on available voice features. This is a great option for seniors who struggle with using buttons, but it’s important to remember that the device still needs to be activated by pressing the button if you’re not close enough to reach the button or your speech isn’t clear enough for the device to understand what you’re saying.

If monthly fees or equipment costs are holding you back from getting a medical alert system, consider calling to see what discounts are offered. Some companies, such as Bay Alarm Medical, will waive the monthly monitoring fee for a spouse and give you two-for-the-price-of-one coverage on their Home & Away Elite plan.