Senior Fall Detection Devices

Seniors often fear that they will fall while at home alone and not be able to call for help. Fall detection devices provide peace of mind and prevent accidents from becoming life-threatening emergencies.

However, no medical alert system can guarantee 100% accuracy in detecting falls. Fortunately, some systems offer false alarm cancelation capabilities to avoid unnecessary panic.

Unmonitored Medical Alert Systems

A medical alert system that doesn’t charge a monthly monitoring fee is best for money-conscious seniors who still want to be safe at home. These systems connect to pre-programmed emergency contacts when they’re triggered, instead of going through a monitoring center.

Some unmonitored systems also have automatic fall detection, which can be a great feature for seniors who are prone to falls. This type of system works by using sensors in a pendant or around the neck to monitor movement and detect if a fall occurs. It can then send a call for help to the contact you’ve designated, or 911. This can save lives.

Safe-Life 4G Pendant and 4G Smartwatch

Although many medical alert systems offer fall detection, it is important to understand that these devices can't detect all falls. Most of these devices rely on motion sensors, accelerometers and gyroscopes to determine whether or not the person is moving. Devices that are worn closer to the center of gravity (such as pendants) tend to be more accurate than smartphones and smart watches.

Bay Alarm Medical offers several options with fall detection, including an at-home system that works over landlines and cellular networks and two mobile systems that work on the go. This feature costs an extra $10/month on these packages.

Alert 1 stands out from other medical alert companies for offering discounted rates on couples' systems with fall detection. These systems can be paired with a second panic button, which is perfect for seniors who live with roommates or spouses.

LifeFone





LifeFone offers a wide range of medical alert systems with a variety of options for fall detection. All systems are cellular-based and work independently of home telephone lines, so they can be used without a landline phone.

The company’s lightweight mobile GPS device (VIP) protects seniors at home and on the go, as long as they have Verizon or AT&T cellular service in their area. The service also includes a free spouse protection plan.

LifeFone keeps prices low from the start with zero one-time fees. Its plans also come with a lifetime price guarantee, so the initial monthly rate will never increase. This is a great benefit for senior citizens on fixed incomes.

Alert 1

Alert 1 is an excellent choice for seniors with balance or mobility issues. Fall detection is an important feature that can make the difference between getting immediate help and lying on the floor for hours before being found, which could lead to serious complications like pressure ulcers, dehydration and pneumonia.

Users can select a classic or wireless system that works at home or opt for a mobile medical alert system that works both in and out of the house through cellular network connections. They have three options that include the fall detection feature, along with a speaker and mic to allow two-way communication with monitoring representatives.

Medical Guardian

Medical Guardian focuses on making their devices easy to use, which makes them a great option for seniors. Their customer-first attitude extends to their pricing, which is transparent and straightforward.

MG's product options include a stylish mobile device for on-the-go (MGMove), a classy smartwatch with original apps, and an updated next-generation design in-home base unit with optional fall detection (Home 2.0). Additional features such as a lockbox are also available.

Medical alarm MG's response time is among the fastest in the industry. They also offer a protection plan for an extra fee, which covers the cost of device replacement, tech support, and more. You can add the plan to any monthly, quarterly, or annual service plan.

Alexa Together

In addition to a customized activity feed, Alexa Together also allows primary and secondary users (family members or friends) to access emergency monitoring services and receive custom daily alerts. It also supports third-party devices like Vayyar Care's touchless fall detection sensor and SkyAngelCare by ATS.

When either of these devices detects a fall, Alexa will automatically contact the 24/7 Urgent Response team and notify the senior's caregiver. Seniors can also say, "Alexa, call for help," to get connected to an agent.

Family members can also create Hunches, which are recommendations that Alexa gives your loved one about their connected smart home devices. These can include reminders to take pills, lock the door, lower the thermostat, and play their favorite music streaming service.