Will a medical alert system keep my mom/dad out of assisted living?

While a medical alert device may not solve all of the challenges of remaining at home for seniors, it is an important safety feature to consider if you are concerned about a loved one. In addition to adding an alert system, families may also be researching home care, walk-in tubs, scooters, durable medical equipment, and other in-home modifications to keep a loved one safe at home.

Why is there a monthly fee for medical alert systems?

There is a monthly fee for two reasons. 1) Since there are no fees to use the equipment, you are essentially renting it. 2) The monthly fee also pays for the peace of mind of knowing that help is on the way with the press of a button.

What about those medical alert systems with no monthly fee?

There are walkie-talkie types of alert systems that do not require a monthly fee — if you press the button, the call goes straight to 911 or a family member. Can you imagine how overloaded 911 dispatch would be every time a button was pressed? Knowing that the majority of button presses are not for emergencies, calling 911 every time someone decides to test their unit or has a question doesn’t seem like a good idea.

What happens if my loved one won't wear the medical alert device I paid for?

It can be frustrating to spend the time, energy, and money on a safety device for your loved one, only to find out they aren’t even wearing it! First, find out what their reason is for not wearing it. Is it uncomfortable? Are they embarrassed? Are they simply forgetting to put it on? If one device is uncomfortable, perhaps another device might be more accommodating. Many medical alert companies give users the option of wearing the button around their neck on a lanyard, or on the wrist with a wrist-watch type band. If they are embarrassed to be seen wearing the system, talk about discreet ways it can be worn under clothing. Or, perhaps your loved one would be more comfortable with a smartwatch medical alert system? If they don’t want to wear the button around the house, check with the alert company to see if they offer wall buttons that can be placed in high-risk fall areas throughout the home.

I don’t want to be locked into a long-term contract — how do I avoid that?

We don’t want you to be locked into a long-term contract either. If you choose any of the companies on this list, you will never be locked into a long-term contract. If you go elsewhere, always read the fine print and make sure you are comfortable with the language in the contract. As a last resort, have your attorney review the contract to ensure you are protected.

Mom is on a very limited budget — how do I know her monthly fee won’t increase?

Many of the companies on this list guarantee that the price you pay when you sign up will never increase. Be sure to ask about a price-lock guarantee.

I don’t want to micro-manage my dad’s care — how can a medical alert system help me to keep track of him without being intrusive?

If your loved one is using a mobile medical alert system with GPS, that’s one easy way to check in periodically to see where they are located. Some medical alert companies also offer daily check-ins, medication reminders, and proactive activity notifications as an add-on service.

Why is a medical alert system better than a cell phone?

In the event of an emergency, a cell phone can be difficult to navigate or may not be in close proximity to make a call. With an alert system, it only takes the simple push of a button to reach help.

We are snowbirds — can I take my medical alert system with me when I travel?

Absolutely. Simply call your provider and let them know you are traveling. You will give them your new address, and they will take care of the rest.

We no longer need the medical alert system — do we have to keep paying for it?

If you are with a company that doesn’t require a long-term contract, simply call customer service, let them know you won’t be needing the equipment anymore, and receive the return instructions. You must return the equipment in good working order or there may be a fee charged to your account for the equipment.

Mom needs this, but I’m concerned she won’t wear it because it looks like a medical alert unit.

Ladies rejoice! There are now jewelry and watch options to disguise alert buttons. Add it to your list of questions to ask when shopping around for a medical alert system.

Are there other options to keep my loved one safe that don’t require them to wear a button?

Yes. Many companies offer wall units that can be placed throughout the home. Some of them are voice-activated and do not require a user to be wearing a button to call for help.

How do first responders enter the home if my loved one is unresponsive?

A lockbox is the easiest way to provide first responders access to the home if your loved one is unable to open the door. Most medical alert companies offer lockboxes for a nominal fee when you sign up.

Dad has a pacemaker — is it safe for him to wear a medical alert device?

There is no easy answer to this question, as alert systems run on different frequencies. Talk to your loved one’s physician about the specific pacemaker and medical alert system you are considering.

Best Cellular Medical Alert Systems | Top Cellular Medical Alert Devices

#1 Medical Guardian

Their Cellular Medical Alert:

Medical Guardian offers several cellular medical alert options. Choose from the Mobile Guardian with 24-hour battery life, 2-way voice and GPS enabled. Or check out the Active Guardian with built-in fall detection and 5-day battery life. Lastly, their Freedom Guardian, a medical alert smartwatch, keeps seniors safe without the stigma of a medical alert device.

Why We Recommend Medical Guardian

Free activation
Longest battery life
Built-in fall detection
Uses AT&T cellular network
Top rated customer service

View Packages

800-520-5889

#2 Bay Alarm Medical

Their Cellular Medical Alert:

Whether you are looking for something inside the home or out, Bay Alarm Medical has options for any need. Bay Alarm Medical offers a 4G all-in-one cellular medical alert that is water-resistant with a two-way speaker.

Why We Recommend Bay Alarm Medical