How to Choose the Best Medical Alert System

Medical alert systems allow elderly or disabled people to seek emergency help on their own instead of waiting for a loved one to respond. emergency alarm elderly They extend the time a person can safely live at home alone and give peace of mind to their families.

Getsafe offers a simple, competitively priced device with no one-time equipment costs and a generous trial period. It also provides a number of premium features at no extra cost.

In-Home

A medical alert system can help someone maintain their independence in the comfort of home or while traveling. Whether they have a condition that puts them at risk for falls, like Parkinson’s or epilepsy, or a recurring health issue, like diabetes or COPD, an at-home medical alert system can offer peace of mind.

Many medical alert systems are compatible with landlines and cellular service. The systems on this list have flexible device plans and billing options, including monthly, quarterly, semiannual, or annual payments. The cost of the device and any bundled accessories is typically included in the subscription.

Lifenet earned high marks in our Extra Costs category for its transparency and lack of activation, equipment, and restocking fees. It also has a comprehensive offering of add-on services, like medication reminders and an in-home system with fall detection. Its devices are easy to use and water resistant. *Note: The LifeFone Medication Reminders service is free. The company also offers an affordable in-home and on-the-go device with fall detection pendants.

On-the-Go

Unlike traditional landline systems, medical alert systems that use cellular service allow users to summon help on the go. They usually work with a wearable device like a pendant or watch that you can activate by pressing a button, pulling a cord, or talking to an operator. Some also pair with a mobile phone app that allows users and caregivers to check on their location and communicate with one another.

personal alarm bracelet Many medical alert devices come with a portable base station that acts as an emergency life-alert button, allowing users to connect with a monitoring center and pre-programmed contacts in the event of an emergency. Most also include a help button you can wear around your neck or wrist.

Medical Care Alert scored well in our Extra Costs category with transparent pricing, no equipment or activation fees, and an affordable at-home and on-the-go system that includes free fall detection. We recommend this system for those on a budget who are looking for reliable and customizable emergency response.

Two-Way Voice Communication

The best medical alert systems allow users to speak with a live agent and connect with emergency services through the device. personal medical alarms This can be a crucial feature for older adults who might have trouble communicating on the phone, or for those living with a disability who are more likely to experience a fall.





In addition, some medical alert systems have a range that goes beyond cellular service and connect to landlines. For this reason, it is important to know which connections a particular system uses before you buy.

When evaluating your options, check to see which systems can offer add-on features like medication reminders, family caregiving tools, live GPS tracking and wellness checks. It’s also worth noting which providers have a customer service line and website with live chat support. Lastly, find out if the company offers a money-back guarantee or free activation and shipping. This can save you money in the long run and help you feel confident that the device is the right choice for your loved one.

Additional Help Button

Most medical alert systems come with a help button that is worn around the neck or wrist and has one large button that users press when they need assistance. The base unit (which is the main purpose of the device) will send a signal to the call center when it is pressed, and a monitoring professional will then contact emergency services or family members.

Some devices have automatic fall detection, which can send a signal to the monitoring center if a user falls and isn’t able to push the help button. While it’s not necessary, this feature can save lives in the event of a fall.

Many of the best medical alert systems offer flexible device plans and payment options, clear reception and access to a reliable customer service center, and both in-home and on-the-go mobile devices. However, some companies have below-average BBB ratings and difficult returns policies. Be sure to check these details before making a purchase.