The 9 Best Medical Alert Systems of 2024
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Studies show that most people would prefer to grow old in their homes, but falls and medical issues can make it difficult to “age in place.” Particularly for those who live alone, it’s essential that, in the event of an emergency, they get quick access to help. Enter medical alert systems.
Through a combination of wearable help buttons and speakerphones, medical alert systems (often called “Life Alerts”) connect a user to urgent response call centers, wherein an operator can assess the user’s situation and coordinate a response, whether this means contacting EMS or a neighbor for assistance. In our experience caring for older adults, medical alert systems have proven to be one of the most surefire ways to keep people safe in their homes. They provide quick access to help and peace of mind for loved ones.
In this guide to the best medical alert systems, we’ll walk through nine companies that––through our extensive testing––have proven to make reliable devices. Whether you’re looking for an affordable in-home system or a medical alert watch that can protect your loved one outside the home, this list has the device for your needs.
The Best Medical Alert Systems of 2024
- Bay Alarm Medical : Best Systems Overall
- Medical Guardian : Best GPS Medical Alert
- MobileHelp : Most Affordable Systems
- Lifeline : Easiest to Use
- ADT : Best In-Home Systems
- LifeFone : Free Spouse Coverage
- Medical Alert : Reliable Protection
- Lively Mobile2 : Quick Mobile Response Times
- Life Alert : Best Customer Support
How We Chose Our Favorites
Most medical alert companies sell a variety of systems, including in-home systems, mobile systems, and smartwatches. Each device has its own unique features, but they all offer the same basic function: connecting a user to help in an emergency.
With that in mind, we evaluated every medical alert system on the following criteria:
- Response times: The faster a medical alert system connected us to help, the better. For each system, we performed 10 test calls, counted how long it took to receive a response, and calculated an average.
- Reliable equipment: Most medical alert equipment claims to be built to last, and I made sure to run extensive tests to verify that. Help buttons and base stations should be able to withstand a fall, and the systems as a whole should last many years.
- Ease of use: The goal of a medical alert system is to simplify your life, providing both the user and their caregivers peace of mind. I kept my eye out for systems that streamlined the process, ensuring users of any ability level can operate them.
- Customer care: A human touch is key to caregiving, so it’s important for medical alert companies to offer impeccable customer service, from the agents at their monitoring centers to their support personnel.
- Affordable pricing: Medical alert systems cost anywhere from $20 to $40 per month, and mobile systems cost a bit more. All the systems detailed below — except Life Alert — fall within that range. Many of them also offer discounts for annual agreements.
- Flexible contracts: Some companies, such as Life Alert, require you to lock into lengthy contracts of up to three years. I gave extra points to companies that allowed me to subscribe on a monthly basis and cancel at any time.
- Extra features: In recent years, medical alert systems have incorporated voice commands, automatic fall detection, and caregiver portals that allow loved ones to communicate with a system from afar. Not everyone needs (or wants) all those features, but I factored them into the rankings.
Our Video Rundown
The Best Medical Alert Systems Compared
Bay Alarm Medical
|
Medical Guardian
|
MobileHelp
|
Lifeline
|
ADT
|
LifeFone
|
Medical Alert
|
Lively Mobile2
|
Life Alert
|
|
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Rating out of 5 | 4.8 | 4.9 | 4.5 | 4.6 | 4.6 | 4.2 | 4.3 | 4.1 | 3 |
Average Response Times | 16 Seconds |
8 Seconds |
26 Seconds |
15 Seconds |
14 Seconds |
25 Seconds |
28 Seconds |
13 Seconds |
120 Seconds |
Starting Price | $24.95/mo |
$29.95/mo |
$19.95/mo |
$29.95/mo |
$25.99/mo |
$24.95/mo |
$27.95/mo |
$24.99/mo |
$49.95/mo |
Fall Detection | $10/mo |
$10/mo |
$11/mo |
$15/mo |
$10/mo |
$5/mo |
$10/mo |
$9.99/mo |
N/A |
Minimum Contract | None |
None |
None |
None |
None |
None |
None |
None |
3 Years |
Read More | Bay Alarm Medical Review | Medical Guardian Review | MobileHelp Review | Lifeline Review | ADT Review | LifeFone Review | Medical Alert Review | Lively Mobile2 Review | Life Alert Review |
Best Medical Alert Systems of 2024
Bay Alarm Medical - Best Systems Overall
855-675-0754
What We Like Most:
- Systems starting at $27.95 per month
- 30-day risk-free trial
- Optional fall detection
- Location tracking on mobile units
Overview
Bay Alarm Medical has long been the gold standard among medical alert systems, and its current lineup does not disappoint. Across the company’s four medical alert systems, we found fast response times, conscientious customer support, and a plethora of extra features for caregivers.
Bay Alarm Medical offers four medical alert systems:
- SOS Home: This basic in-home system impressed us with its simplicity. Connecting via either cellular or landline (depending on the model), its loud speakerphone allowed me to communicate with monitoring agents from anywhere in my home. Its help buttons were also waterproof, allowing me to wear them in the shower, a frequent site of falls.
- SOS Mobile: As the name implies, this system is made for active users who will take it on the go. Only 2.7 inches tall and 1.3 inches wide, the system is incredibly small, allowing me to comfortably carry it throughout the day. I was also impressed with the device’s battery life, which lasted nearly four days before I needed to recharge it.
- SOS All-in-One: Toeing the line between the SOS Home and Mobile units, the All-in-One is designed to be used both at home and on the go. Unlike the Mobile, it features a separate help button, which allowed me to put the main speakerphone button in a purse.
- SOS Smartwatch: Highly discreet, the SOS Smartwatch packs the same functionality of the SOS Mobile into the profile of a wristwatch. It even includes fall detection.
>> Read more: SOS Smartwatch Review
Testing
Across their various devices, we found that Bay Alarm Medical’s systems consistently gave us quick access to help. In our tests, their monitoring center answered our calls in an average of 16 seconds. Each distress call also alerted our designated caregivers through the Bay Alarm Medical app. The app also allowed us to track the location of our mobile systems when they were used outside the home.
I was pleased with the water resistance of Bay Alarm Medical’s help buttons. I was able to take them into the shower without damaging them. Since the shower is a frequent site of falls, this feature would definitely come in handy for many users. The automatic fall detection also worked well across Bay Alarm Medical’s various systems. I was particularly impressed by the SOS Smartwatch’s fall detection, which detected 19 of my 20 test falls.
>> Further reading: The Best Fall Detection Devices
Pricing
All these features come at a surprisingly low cost. Bay Alarm Medical starts at $27.95 per month for the in-home systems and $29.95 for the mobile systems. That puts the company’s prices at slightly below average.
Most importantly, none of Bay Alarm Medical’s systems require long-term contracts. When we finished testing our systems, we called the company to cancel our service, shipped our devices back, and stopped making our monthly payments.
To learn more about the pricing of each system and the optional accessories, read our guide to Bay Alarm Medical costs.
Drawbacks
The one downside of Bay Alarm Medical is the extra costs for some bonus features. Even though fall detection is built into most of Bay Alarm Medical’s devices, for example, we had to pay an extra $10 per month to activate it.
We also appreciated that Bay Alarm includes free access to a caregiver app — through which loved ones can keep track of a device’s location and usage — but the app doesn’t have the communication features of other apps, such as those from Medical Guardian.
Bottom Line
Affordable, durable, and reliable, Bay Alarm Medical has a system for any type of user. Regardless of which system you choose, you can rest assured that it will give your loved one quick access to help in an emergency.
To learn more about our hands-on experience with each of the company’s systems, read our full Bay Alarm Medical review.
Pros
- No long-term contracts required
- Quick response times
- Mobile GPS tracking
- Caregiver features
- Systems from $27.95 per month
- Voice and wall-mounted buttons
Cons
- Higher up-front costs for mobile systems
- Less advanced app than others
Medical Guardian - Best GPS Medical Alert
877-947-4512
What We Like Most:
- No long-term contracts
- Quick response times
- Activity tracking
- GPS location technology
Overview
What separates Medical Guardian from other medical alert providers is its fierce commitment to protecting its customers. We found in our tests that Medical Guardian response agents answered our test calls in the fastest average times. The company has even been recognized as one of the top places to work in the country.
Medical Guardian offers five systems:
- MGClassic: The MGClassic is Medical Guardian’s most affordable medical alert system, at $29.95 per month. The base unit connects to your home’s landline and offers two-way communication between you and the emergency-response operator. The pendant has an impressive 1,300-foot range, and the system’s 32-hour backup battery is a nice feature.
- MGHome Cellular: The MGHome Cellular works just like the MGClassic, except it runs on AT&T’s cellular network. The base unit features an LED display screen and a 30-hour backup battery.
- MGMini: Despite its small stature and 1.3-ounce weight, this sleek mobile system boasts a five-day battery, water resistance, two-way talk, and built-in GPS and Wi-Fi tracking that can pinpoint your exact location during an emergency.
- MGMini Lite: Even smaller than the MGMini, the MGMini Lite offers similar features, with a built-in GPS, speakerphone, and fall detection. The primary difference is the MGMini’s wristband, allowing it to be worn as a bracelet as opposed to a pendant.
- MGMove Smartwatch: The MGMove smartwatch is a medical alert watch with many of the same features other smartwatches have, such as SMS text messaging, schedules, and weather forecasts, but it has the added bonus of a medical alert system.
>> Read more: MGMove Watch Review
Testing
No matter which system we tested, our Medical Guardian systems gave us nearly instantaneous access to help. In our tests, our distress calls were answered in an average of eight seconds, which gave Medical Guardian the fastest response times.
Every Medical Guardian help button is also water-resistant, which allowed us to take them into the shower without causing damage. Fall detection with Medical Guardian was also highly accurate; the systems detected 18 of our 20 test falls.
Another unique feature of Medical Guardian is the MyGuardian app. Many companies now offer companion apps with their medical alert systems, but MyGuardian is by far the best. With the app, caregivers can receive notifications when a loved one’s system sends a distress call. For the mobile systems, caregivers can also track the system in real-time. With the MGMove watch, we could even use the app to send messages and reminders directly to the watch. That’s something we haven’t seen with any other medical alert system.
To learn more about our experience with the MyGuardian App, read our MGMini review and MGMini Lite review.
Pricing
One downside of Medical Guardian is its high costs. The systems start at $29.95 per month for the MGClassic. The MGHome Cellular costs $37.95 per month, and the mobile systems start at $39.95 per month. The prices are a bit higher than average. If you’re looking for something slightly more affordable, we recommend checking out MobileHelp, which offers in-home systems for $19.95 per month.
You can get discounts for paying for a whole year in advance, but none of Medical Guardian’s systems require long-term contracts. When we finished testing each system, we returned our equipment, stopped making monthly payments, and even received a prorated refund for the remainder of the month.
To learn more about how pricing works with Medical Guardian and what you can expect to pay for each system, read our guide to Medical Guardian costs.
Drawbacks
Apart from the higher-than-average costs, Medical Guardian also charges you additional monthly fees for accessories. Many medical alert companies, such as Life Alert, include a free lockbox. A lockbox, when placed on your door, allows first responders to enter your home without breaking the door. Medical Guardian, however, charges $2.99 per month for a lockbox.
Bottom Line
Pricing aside, there is no medical alert company with faster response times than Medical Guardian. If you’re looking to keep your loved ones safe at home, there is hardly a better option.
To learn more about our hands-on experience with each of the company’s systems, read our full Medical Guardian review.
Pros
- Fastest response times
- A wide range of systems
- All-in-one mobile units
- Smartwatch option
- Accurate fall detection
- Waterproof devices
Cons
- More costly than other companies
- No fall detection on the smartwatch
MobileHelp - Most Affordable Systems
800-915-8738
What We Like Most:
- Systems from $19.95 per month
- Flexible contracts
- Mobile and in-home protection
- Free equipment and activation
Overview
When it comes to medical alert systems, MobileHelp offers several options that quickly give you or your loved one access to emergency help. Best of all, the company has systems that cost as low as $20 per month, making it the most affordable option on this list.
MobileHelp’s current lineup includes the following systems:
- Classic: This basic in-home medical alert system comes with a speakerphone base unit and a help button, all for $19.99 per month.
- Wired Home: This system works just like the Classic, but it uses a landline connection instead of cellular.
- Touch Classic: The Touch Classic works like a traditional in-home medical alert system, but instead of the classic base unit, it uses a touch-screen tablet that can also be used for entertainment purposes.
- Solo: This mobile medical alert system uses a built-in GPS and rechargeable battery, allowing the user to take it on the go.
- Micro: This mobile system works just like the Solo, but it’s also waterproof, allowing you to wear it in the shower.
>> Read more: The Best GPS Medical Alert Systems
Testing
We found consistently solid performance across MobileHelp’s systems. In our test calls, MobileHelp agents answered the call in an average of 26 seconds. That’s longer than the prior two entries on this list, but it’s still better than the 30-second average across the industry. In our opinion, it’s fast enough to keep our loved ones safe.
Another MobileHelp feature that impressed us was the loud volume on its in-home systems. Even when making a test call from multiple rooms away, the Classic system’s speakerphone was able to clearly handle the call between us and the operators.
Pricing
MobileHelp’s biggest advantage is its low cost. Its basic in-home system, the MobileHelp Classic, costs $19.99 per month, which is nearly half the price of Medical Guardian’s cellular in-home system.
Much like the other companies on this list, MobileHelp also requires no long-term contracts. When we finished testing our MobileHelp systems, we simply returned our devices, canceled our service, and stopped making monthly payments.
To learn more about the pricing of each system and the optional accessories, read our guide to MobileHelp costs.
Drawbacks
Our main gripe with MobileHelp is its approach to caregiver portals. Other companies, such as Bay Alarm Medical and Medical Guardian, include access to their apps at no extra charge, but MobileHelp charges extra to unlock certain features.
With the MobileHelp Connect portal, for example, caregivers get only 30 location requests per month. Extra pings cost $6 per 30 pings. That isn’t an obscenely expensive amount, but it made me feel nickel-and-dimed. With my MGMini system, I could check the location of my device with no limits or extra costs.
Apart from location tracking, medication reminders and activity tracking also cost $6 each per month. Similar versions of these features come standard on apps from Bay Alarm Medical, Medical Guardian, and Lively.
Bottom Line
Starting at $19.95 per month, there is no beating MobileHelp’s price tag. In our experience, the company’s systems perform on par with the best. To learn more about our hands-on experience with each of its systems, read our full MobileHelp Review.
Pros
- Affordable systems
- In-home and mobile protection
- Caregiver portal
- Free lockbox with every order
- Quick response times
Cons
- Extra fees on the caregiver portal
- Extra device required for fall detection
Lifeline - Easiest to Use
844-615-0088
What We Like Most:
- Quick response times
- Durable, water-resistant equipment
- No long-term contracts
- Excellent customer service
Overview
In 1974, Lifeline became the first company in North America to provide medical alert services in private households, and it’s still one of the most popular options. We wish the company’s devices were more affordable, but we still think it’s a worthwhile option.
Lifeline offers two systems:
- Home System: As the name implies, this in-home system features a speakerphone base unit and a wearable help button. It’s also available in either landline or cellular versions.
- Mobile System: Lifeline’s mobile system combines a GPS, a cellular connection, and a help button, allowing the user to take it on the go. It’s also compatible with fall detection.
>> Read more: SOS Smartwatch Review
Testing
We found that both Lifeline systems consistently and quickly connected us to help. Our test calls on the Home and Mobile systems connected to human response agents in an average of 15 seconds, making Lifeline one of the fastest companies on this list.
Another Lifeline feature we appreciated was its app for caregivers. The app allowed us to add a list of emergency contacts to be immediately notified when we placed emergency calls with our system. It’s a great option for users with loved ones who live nearby.
>> Further reading: The Best Fall-Detection Devices
Pricing
Lifeline’s biggest drawback is its high costs. Its in-home landline system costs $29.95 per month, the cellular version costs $39.95 per month, and the mobile system costs $49.95 per month. That puts Lifeline up there with Life Alert as the most expensive medical alert company.
On top of the monthly costs, you’ll also have to pay $100 in setup fees. Fall detection is an additional $15 per month, whereas most companies charge only $10 per month. On the positive side, at least Lifeline doesn’t require a long-term contract.
To learn more about Lifeline’s pricing, read our guide to Lifeline costs.
Drawbacks
Costs aside, we were also disappointed by Lifeline’s selection of systems. We also wish the Mobile system had built-in fall detection; we had to wear an additional fall-detection pendant.
If you want a mobile pendant with built-in fall detection, we recommend checking out Lively or Medical Guardian.
Bottom Line
There’s a reason Lifeline is one of the most popular medical alert companies. Its systems work well, and, after our extensive tests, we trust them to protect our loved ones.
To learn more about our hands-on experience with Lifeline, read our full Lifeline medical alert review.
Pros
- Waterproof help buttons
- No long-term contracts
- Personalized response plans
- All-in-one mobile pendant
- Long-lasting batteries
- Quick response times
Cons
- $100 activation fees
- More costly fall detection
ADT - Best In-Home Systems
855-571-0361
What We Like Most:
- Waterproof help buttons
- Optional fall detection
- Quick response times
- Temperature monitoring
Overview
Widely known for its home security systems, ADT also offers medical alert systems that can keep users safe both in and outside their homes. You won’t find much groundbreaking technology here, but ADT medical alerts deliver exceptional performance with durable equipment and speedy emergency response times.
ADT offers three systems:
- Medical Alert Basic: This landline in-home system also features temperature monitoring, which will automatically alert operators if the user’s home temperature becomes excessively low or high.
- Medical Alert Plus: This home system works just like the landline version, but it uses a cellular connection. It also can support fall detection as an add-on.
- On-the-Go: This all-in-one mobile unit features a speakerphone, help button, and GPS, allowing the user to wear it outside the home.
Testing
In our 10 test calls with ADT devices, the company’s response agents answered in an average of 14 seconds. That gave ADT the third-fastest response time on this list, surpassed by only Medical Guardian and Lively. What disappointed us, however, was that ADT did not offer any features that would notify our loved ones when we made emergency calls.
With a Medical Guardian system, for example, each time we made a test call, our loved ones received notifications via the MyGuardian app. ADT does not offer that feature. Our ADT systems worked well, however. Response times were quick, and the buttons worked even when we made calls from the shower. Fall detection on our ADT systems also worked well, detecting 14 out of our 20 test falls.
We were also impressed by the GPS capabilities of our On-the-Go system. When we made a test call from a local train station, the response agents were able to report our exact location, down to the fact that we were standing on the outbound platform.
Pricing
ADT’s prices fall in the middle of the pack. The landline system costs $29.99 per month, the cellular home system costs $37.99 per month, and the mobile system costs $39.99 per month. Fall detection also costs an additional $10 per month. If you’ve made it this far, you’re likely aware that that’s roughly average for a medical alert system.
>> Read more: The Most Affordable Medical Alert Systems
Much like the other companies on this list, ADT did not lock us into a long-term contract. When we finished testing, we canceled our service and stopped making monthly payments. To learn more about the pricing of each system and the optional accessories, read our guide to ADT medical alert costs.
Drawbacks
As reliable as its systems are, we were disappointed that ADT did not include an app for caregivers. The company asked for a list of emergency contacts that its agents could reach out to in the event of an emergency call, but there was no way for caregivers to monitor our system.
If that type of caregiver connectivity interests you, we recommend looking into a system from Medical Guardian or Bay Alarm Medical.
Bottom Line
ADT lacks the advanced caregiver tracking features of other systems, but it certainly gave us quick access to help — both in home and on the go. To learn more about our hands-on experience with each of its systems, read our full ADT medical alert review.
Pros
- Waterproof help buttons
- No long-term contracts
- Automatic fall detection
- Quick response times
- Landline options available
Cons
- Relatively small in-home range
- No fall detection on the landline system
- No smart features
- No caregiver tracking
LifeFone - Free Spouse Coverage
844-996-2846
What We Like Most:
- No extra fee for spouses
- Lifetime price-lock guarantee
- Quick response times
- $5 per month for fall detection
Overview
With its entire workforce based in the United States, LifeFone is able to offer an unparalleled level of service to its customers. In addition to quick response times, the company also offers some of the lowest prices for spouse coverage and fall detection.
LifeFone offers six medical alert systems, which is among the most of any company. Here’s a brief breakdown of each one:
- At-Home Landline: This basic in-home system features the standard speakerphone base unit and a wearable help button.
- At-Home Cellular: This system works just like the landline version, but with a cellular connection.
- VIP X: This mobile system features a built-in speakerphone, help button, cellular connection, and GPS. That allows users to wear it for protection on the go. The system is also compatible with the LifeFone caregiver app.
- VIP Active: This system works nearly the same as the VIP X, but it is not compatible with the app.
- VIP Flex: This mobile system is worn around the wrist, much like Medical Guardian’s MGMini Lite, and it does everything the VIP Active can do.
- Safe Watch Active: This medical alert watch can make emergency calls and track the user’s heart rate and steps.
>> Read more: The Best Medical Alert Watches
Testing
LifeFone gave us consistently quick response times across its various devices. In our 10 test calls, the systems connected us to help in an average of 25 seconds. That’s longer than other systems on this list, but we think it’s still quick enough to keep your loved ones safe.
Another feature we appreciated was LifeFone’s location requests. A loved one can text a designated number and in response receive the real-time location of our VIP X system. The feature is available on all of LifeFone’s mobile systems.
Pricing
Despite its advanced features, LifeFone is one of the more affordable medical alert companies. Its in-home systems start at $24.95 per month, and its mobile systems start at $39.95 per month. Most impressively, fall detection costs only $5 per month to add to any system.
Another feature we appreciated was the ability to purchase additional help buttons on the same home system. Extra help buttons — either a bracelet or necklace — cost a one-time fee of $39.95. That makes LifeFone a great option for couples or roommates who don’t want to purchase multiple systems.
>> Read more: The Best Medical Alert Bracelets
LifeFone also requires no long-term contracts with any of its systems. When we finished testing them, we returned the equipment and stopped making monthly payments.
To learn more about the pricing of each system and the optional accessories, read our guide to LifeFone costs.
Drawbacks
LifeFone’s biggest drawback is its lack of caregiver features. There is a LifeFone app, but it’s compatible only with the VIP X system. With the other systems, we had no caregiver features other than location requests via text.
Bottom Line
Because of a combination of low prices, diverse equipment, and quick response times, LifeFone is one of our favorite options for home and mobile protection. To learn more about our hands-on experience with each of its systems, read our full LifeFone review.
Pros
- Free spouse coverage
- Most affordable fall detection
- Large range for in-home systems
- No long-term contracts
- In-house monitoring center
Cons
- Limited caregiver features
- High smartwatch costs
Medical Alert - Reliable Protection
(855) 583-3364
What We Like Most:
- Simple setup process
- Home and mobile options
- Optional fall detection
- Useful app for caregivers
Overview
Medical Alert (the company) is one of the largest providers of personal emergency response systems in the country. With the addition of a modern, feature-rich smartphone app, it has become one of our favorite medical alert systems.
Medical Alert offers two systems:
- Home System: As the name implies, this system keeps the user safe at home. Powered by either a cellular or landline connection, it connects through a speakerphone base unit and a help button.
- Mobile System: This system features a built-in GPS, help button, and speakerphone, allowing the user to get help on the go.
Testing
We found consistently solid response times with both Medical Alert systems. In our 10 test calls, our devices connected us to help in an average of 28 seconds. That’s longer than many other entries on this list, but we still think it’s a respectable time — especially compared to Life Alert’s response times (which you can find at the bottom of the list).
We found everything with Medical Alert to be adequate. Its devices withstood water exposure in the shower. With the mobile system, response agents were able to accurately report our location, from the coffee shop to a nearby state park. We also appreciated the included Medical Alert Connect app, which allows loved ones to receive notifications each time we placed a distress call.
Pricing
If you visit Medical Alert’s website for pricing information, it’s important to read the fine print. The company boldly declares that it has systems from $19.95 per month, but that’s not quite true. The landline home system costs $19.95 per month only if you pay on an annual basis, which is $239.40 up front. If you prefer to pay month-to-month, however, your price will be $27.50 per month, which is decidedly less of a bargain. The mobile system features similar price hikes.
To learn more about the pricing of each system, read our guide to Medical Alert costs.
Drawbacks
In addition to the misleading monthly pricing, we were disappointed by Medical Alert’s extra fees. We had to pay a nonrefundable $79 fee for both the home and mobile systems, which felt like a cash grab.
Bottom Line
Misleading pricing and hidden fees aside, Medical Alert’s two systems impressed us with their reliability and durability. If you’re looking for a simple and reasonably priced system, Medical Alert may be the company for you.
To learn more about our hands-on experience with each of its systems, read our full Medical Alert review.
Pros
- Affordable monthly costs
- Monthly contract options
- Discounts for annual contracts
- Simple setup process
- Water-resistant devices
Cons
- One-time $79 fees on all systems
- Misleading pricing online
Lively Mobile2 - Quick Mobile Response Times
855-403-6340
What We Like Most:
- Long battery life
- Fully waterproof
- 13-second response times
- Built-in fall detection
Overview
You’ve likely heard of Lively — formerly known as GreatCall — and its popular line of easy-to-use cell phones, the Jitterbug. What you may not have heard of, though, is its stand-alone medical alert device, the Lively Mobile2. It combines the portability of a cell phone with the safety features of a personal emergency response system.
The Lively Mobile2 is a completely cellular medical alert system that includes features such as fall detection and a dedicated nurse hotline. There’s also an app, Lively Link, that allows families and caregivers to be instantly tuned in with a user’s health and safety.
>> Read more: Jitterbug Smart4 Review
Testing
What impressed us most about the Lively Mobile2 was how quickly each of our calls was answered. In our 10 test calls, we were connected to help in an average of 13 seconds, the second-fastest average on this list.
The Lively Mobile2 is also billed as a truly waterproof device, whereas other mobile systems on this list are simply water-resistant. To test that, I dunked the device into a glass of water. After pulling it out, it made another test call with crystal-clear audio.
Lively’s app, Lively Link, also proved to be rather useful. By logging in to the app, loved ones could keep track of our device’s location even when we left the house. They also received notifications each time we made a test call.
>> Further reading: The Best Fall Detection Devices
Pricing
Lively mobile prices start at a mere $24.99 per month with no long-term contracts or cancellation fees. If you want to make the most of your Lively Mobile2, however, I recommend going for the Premium Package, which includes Lively Link and access to medical professionals. At $34.99 per month, the plan is competitively priced compared to other mobile systems. Fall detection will cost an extra $9.99 per month, regardless of the plan you choose.
To learn more about the pricing of each system and the optional accessories, read our guide to Lively medical alert costs.
Drawbacks
The biggest drawback to the Lively Mobile2 is that it’s a bit large. In our team’s experience providing care to older adults, we’ve found that it’s very difficult to get a loved one to wear any medical alert device — let alone one that’s large and made of plastic.
Bottom Line
If appearance is of no concern, the Lively Mobile2 is a superb option that provides affordable protection at home and on the go.
To learn more about our hands-on experience with this system, read our full Lively Mobile2 review.
Pros
- Waterproof device
- 30-day trial period
- No long-term contracts or cancellation fees
- Plans from $24.99 per month
Cons
- Device requires daily charging
- Device is ugly
Life Alert - Best Customer Support
What We Like Most:
- Tailored customer care
- Three-year battery life on mobile system
- All-in-one wall button
- Water-resistant devices
Overview
Life Alert is easily the most well-known medical alert company, but its systems are among the worst. Not only can they cost nearly $90 per month, but Life Alert will also lock you into a three-year contract that you can escape only through death or transition to round-the-clock care. (So, yes, we’ll be making our $89.95 monthly payment for another year and a half, and we’re not too happy about it.)
Life Alert offers three systems:
- Home System: This basic in-home system has a built-in speakerphone and a wearable help button. Pressing the help button triggers a call to Life Alert’s call center.
- Wall-Mounted Help Button: Through an adhesive strip, the button can be placed on a wall, nightstand, or other highly trafficked location. When pressed, it connects the user to help through a built-in speakerphone.
- GPS Unit: Despite the confusing name, the Life Alert Help Pendant LTE essentially functions like a mobile medical alert with GPS. Much like the wall-mounted help button, it has a built-in speakerphone and cellular connection, which allows emergency calls to be handled directly from the device.
>> Read more: Affordable Alternatives to Life Alert
Testing
When we purchased Life Alert, we were connected to a personal care coordinator. The woman — who gave us her personal cell number — answered every question we had related to both Life Alert’s technology and the process of providing care. Since many people purchase medical alert systems for an aging loved one, we thought that was a fabulous touch. Our care coordinator seemed expertly equipped to help us provide care to our loved one.
That level of customer care gave us high expectations for Life Alert’s systems, but they failed to meet those expectations in spectacular fashion.
Regardless of the system we used, it took Life Alert an average of 120 seconds to connect us to help. You read that correctly: two whole minutes. That is far and away the worst response time we’ve seen on a medical alert system.
Don’t believe us? Watch the video below, in which our managing editor, Ryan Molloy, makes a test call.
Pricing
Life Alert’s Home System costs $49.95 per month. The Wall-Mounted Help Button and the GPS unit cost $20 per month, respectively. Life Alert, however, does not allow you to purchase either the GPS Unit or the Wall-Mounted Help Button by themselves. One or both have to be paired with the Home System, which means your total monthly cost will be $49.95 to $89.95.
On top of that, Life Alert locks users into a three-year contract. We could practically write a book about the fees and contracts involved with Life Alert. If you want to read the main bullet points of what Life Alert has its users sign, read our full guide to Life Alert costs.
Drawbacks
For a company so widely known, Life Alert’s systems were surprisingly disappointing on just about every level. Sure, we were impressed by the GPS Unit’s long battery life and the conscientious customer care we received, but nothing — absolutely nothing — can overcome the incredibly long response times we experienced.
Bottom Line
Life Alert is easily one of the most expensive medical alert companies, and its systems will leave your loved ones waiting multiple minutes before connecting to help. On top of that, Life Alert locks you into a three-year contract. We would trust any other brand listed on this page over Life Alert.
To learn more about our hands-on experience with each of its systems, read our full Life Alert Review.
Pros
- In-home and mobile protection
- Free battery replacement
- Attentive customer service
- Water-resistant devices
Cons
- No fall detection
- Incredibly high costs
- Three-year contracts required
In-Home Medical Alert Systems
In-home medical alert systems generally can be broken down into two categories: landline and cellular. Both types of in-home systems include a base station with a two-way speaker. This is what is used to communicate with monitoring personnel, and it’s activated by pressing a small help button worn around either the neck or wrist.
Landline
Landline systems are meant to be used inside the home, and they require a working landline to connect with a monitoring center. The systems are easy to install by simply plugging them into a power outlet and phone jack. They also tend to be the most affordable option, as no cellular signal is required.
Cellular
No landline? No problem. Most medical alert companies offer cellular medical alert systems. Simply plug in the power source, and the system will initiate. The systems often look identical to their landline counterparts, but they usually cost $5 to $10 more. Luckily the cost of cellular service is included with your medical alert service plan, so no additional contracts are necessary.
Before purchasing a cellular system, verify that your home receives adequate cellular coverage by asking which cellular carrier (usually Verizon or AT&T) the medical alert company uses. If your home doesn’t have cellular coverage, your system won’t work properly.
Mobile Medical Alert Systems
Mobile or on-the-go medical alert systems are ideal for people who want access to help even while outside their homes. Using a cellular connection, the alert systems feature a two-way speaker and a help button, giving you the same protection as an in-home system but in a portable package.
All mobile medical alerts are even GPS-enabled. That helpful feature allows monitoring staff and even loved ones to locate a user while their device is turned on, which is important since some users may be unable to verbalize their location if they are hurt, confused, or otherwise experiencing an emergency.
Medical Alert Watches
The medical alert smartwatch is a recent development. Geared toward both men and women, the modern devices provide safety in a sleek and discrete package. The systems work independently of a cell phone (with no additional cellular fees), and they look like a typical wristwatch. Not only are they stylish, life-saving devices, but they also operate as a functional watch, activity tracker, and messenger.
To learn more about the systems, read our guide to the best smartwatches for seniors.
How Does Medical Alert Monitoring Work?
Medical alert systems function as a direct line of contact between the user and a monitoring center. I know what you’re thinking: What’s a monitoring center? Put simply, monitoring centers are contracted by medical alert companies to provide 24/7 care to customers. They do so by receiving distress calls, assessing the situation (emergency or otherwise), and then contacting an appropriate response measure, whether it’s medical services or a neighbor who can check in.
Monitoring centers are not your average call center. Not only are they staffed well enough to field calls in a matter of seconds, but their specialists also often receive extensive training to ensure a high degree of care.
Not all medical alert systems, however, require monthly fees. To learn more, check out my list of unmonitored medical alert systems.
Medical alert systems function as a direct line of contact between the user and a monitoring center. I know what you’re thinking: What’s a monitoring center? Put simply, monitoring centers are contracted by medical alert companies to provide 24/7 care to customers. They do so by receiving distress calls, assessing the situation (emergency or otherwise), and then contacting an appropriate response measure, whether it’s medical services or a neighbor who can check in.
Monitoring centers are not your average call center. Not only are they staffed well enough to field calls in a matter of seconds, but their specialists also often receive extensive training to ensure a high degree of care.
Not all medical alert systems, however, require monthly fees. To learn more, check out my list of unmonitored medical alert systems.
Which Medical Alert System Is Right for You?
If you’re interested in purchasing a medical alert system, here are some questions you should consider.
In Home or On the Go?
Generally speaking, medical alert systems can be broken down into two categories: systems for use in the home and systems for use outside of it. Both types provide the same functionality, but each suits a different lifestyle.
In-home systems connect through either a landline or cellular connection. When you press your help button — generally worn as either a wristband or pendant — you’ll be connected to the monitoring center via the base station, which has both a speaker and microphone for easy communication. In-home systems are best suited for people who spend most of their time indoors, although some systems have a large enough connectivity range to cover parts of your yard.
On-the-go systems connect through cellular service, allowing you to travel just about anywhere with adequate service. Most often worn as a pendant — although some companies offer wristbands or smartwatch designs — the systems provide the same security and peace of mind as in-home models, but with a greater range of freedom. On-the-go systems generally come with a higher price tag.
What Are My Monitoring Needs?
Each of the systems mentioned here comes with some form of 24/7 professional monitoring, but some offer additional features suited to individual needs.
With caregiver apps and platforms, loved ones and caregivers can keep tabs on the user, tracking their location, monitoring their activity, and even checking to make sure they’re wearing their device. Systems from Aloe Care Health, for example, are rooted in their smartphone app. With the app, loved ones can make check-in calls to a system, communicate with other caregivers, and even monitor system metrics such as home temperature, carbon monoxide levels, and emergency alerts sent from the device.
>> Read more: Aloe Care Health Review
Many medical alert providers also offer personalized response plans. With these plans, a call to the monitoring center can also trigger alerts to neighbors or loved ones. A monitoring agent can certainly contact emergency services, but not every help call requires such drastic action. I always appreciate these individualized responses.
Do I Want Fall Detection?
Most medical alert systems offer automatic fall detection, and it will cost anywhere from $5 to $15 extra per month. It may be tempting to save money by omitting the feature, but I think it’s essential and could even save your life.
What Is Automatic Fall Detection?
Falls are a leading cause of injury to older adults, so it’s critical to have the proper ways of addressing the problem. A fall can leave a person unable to reach for help, and that’s where medical alert systems with fall detection come in handy.
Through sophisticated accelerometer technology, automatic fall detection pendants can detect a fall and automatically place a call to monitoring personnel without the user having to press the button. The technology is not 100 percent accurate, however, and false alerts may occur, but if a loved one falls (or has a medical emergency) and is unable to press the button on their safety device, there is comfort in knowing that help can still be reached.
Does Amazon Have a Medical Alert System?
Amazon recently launched a new service, Alexa Together, that functions similarly to a medical alert system. If a person has an Amazon Echo, they can use voice commands to place calls to an urgent response call center, much like a medical alert device. Alexa Together also has a number of features that help users and their loved ones communicate through messages, reminders, and even video calls.
To learn more about the service and its interesting approach to fall detection, read our Alexa Together review.
Bottom Line
As a lifelong caregiver to older adults, I take great pride in helping people navigate the often complicated world of medical alert systems. Everyone deserves independence, regardless of age, and a reliable medical alert system is the perfect tool to help you do so.
If you made it this far, you can tell there is a lot to know about these systems. But have no fear! I’m here to do the leg work, testing the latest and greatest caregiver technology and making it easier for you to rest assured that your loved ones are aging gracefully.
Medical Alert System Frequently Asked Questions
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What is the best medical alert device on the market?
MobileHelp, Bay Alarm Medical, and Medical Guardian make some of the most reliable and affordable medical alert devices on the market.
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Are medical alert systems worth it?
Costing as little as $20 per month, a medical alert system is one of the most affordable ways for seniors to stay safe in their homes and on the go — especially compared to more costly home modifications.
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What is the average cost of a medical alert system?
On average, medical alert systems cost between $20 and $40 per month. Additional buttons and features such as fall detection usually cost an additional monthly charge.
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Can you get Life Alert for free?
Medicare won’t cover the cost of Life Alert or another medical alert system, but you can often get discounts or coverage for a medical alert through your private insurance or local Area Agency on Aging.
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Does AARP offer Life Alert?
AARP has no official partnership with Life Alert or other medical alert companies, but Lifeline (formerly Philips Lifeline) offers discounts to AARP members.
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Do you need Wi-Fi for Life Alert?
Life Alert and other medical alert systems generally do not require Wi-Fi. Rather they contact monitoring agents through a built-in cellular or existing landline connection.
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Does Medicare pay for Life Alert?
Medicare will not pay for Life Alert or other medical alert systems, since they are not considered durable medical equipment. Some insurance providers, however, offer partial coverage for medical alert systems.
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Where can you buy a medical alert system?
Some brands of medical alert systems are carried in stores such as Walmart and CVS, but most medical alert providers, including Medical Guardian, Bay Alarm Medical, and MobileHelp, sell their devices over the phone or on their websites.