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January 27, 2023
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If you’ve looked into purchasing a medical alert system, then you’ve probably learned that these devices often come with hefty price tags. Most medical alert systems cost anywhere from $20-$40 monthly and mobile options can be as high as $60. For those who are watching their budget, the monthly commitment can be off-putting.
If you’re seeking peace of mind without having to spend a fortune, medical alerts with no monthly fees are a great option.
Unmonitored medical alerts tend to have fewer features than traditional medical alerts. Instead, they work through a simpler mechanism: You press a button when you need help, and the device connects directly to an emergency number.
Depending on the specific model, the alert could connect to one of three options:
Once a user presses the button, the alert sends out a signal to the appropriate number, and help is dispatched. All the options in this article have GPS technology, so you can wear them both in and outside the home and get the help they need right away.
What’s more, unmonitored medical alert systems most often require no monthly fee. Instead, you simply purchase the equipment.
FYI: Medical alert systems come in all shapes and sizes. If you’re new to this technology, check out my guide for detailed medical alert comparisons.
| Companies evaluated | 6 |
|---|---|
| Hours of research | 60+ |
| Hours of product testing | 120+ |
| Ranking criteria | 5 |
| Finalists chosen | 3 |
When choosing the best medical alerts with no monthly fee, we judged them on the following criteria:
Price: $189 one-time charge
The WellBe Smart Speaker—or the “Amazon Alexa” of medical alerts—works as a voice-enabled virtual health assistant that’s built on a HIPAA-compliant platform.
Through its wide array of voice commands, users can set medication reminders, track blood pressure and blood glucose, keep track of appointments, and even listen to music or audiobooks. What’s more, it can even recognize different voices, allowing multiple users to keep track of their respective alerts and notifications.
In terms of emergency calls, WellBe can contact either 911 or any preset contacts. For loved ones or caregivers, they can keep track of any emergency notifications through the WellBe Virtual Assistant app. While not required, this smart speaker can also be paired with the WellBe smartwatch for augmented features, including GPS tracking on the go. I like that the WellBe is completely hands-free and has user-friendly features such as voice-activated calling and obtaining the health information you need right away without pressing a button.
To learn more about this system, check out my WellBe review, in addition to my rundown of WellBe systems and costs.
Price: $99 one-time charge
Silent Beacon is a sleek, modern panic button and personal safety device that’s designed to work wherever you are. One button press connects you to an emergency contact and helps reduce false alerts from happening with an indented button design. Using the Silent Beacon app, this rechargeable device can work just about anywhere. Additionally, loved ones can download the app to keep track of your location and receive emergency calls.
What’s more, this device has no monthly fees and comes with a 30-day-money back guarantee. You can also easily pair the device with any smartphone or tablet that’s Bluetooth-enabled. Other standout features include a water resistant and UL-certified fire retardant plastic on the panic button and a fully rechargeable battery.
Price: $149 one-time charge (plus shipping and handling).
FastHelp is a straightforward device that calls 911 when the wearer presses the button. Water-resistant and GPS-enabled, first responders will be able to track your location and send appropriate help in the event of an emergency. With two-way communication and no long-term contract, FastHelp is great for older adults that live alone or for unexpected emergencies. It’s intended to work at home, at the store, or when you’re traveling or on-the-go.
Not only does this device not require a smartphone, but it also can last up to three weeks on a single charge, making it great to carry with you anywhere you go.
No-monthly-fee medical alerts have some pros and cons to consider. On one hand, they cost less overall, they’re easy to use, and they can certainly keep you safe in an emergency. However, they also lack the resources from a dedicated call center staffed with professional monitoring agents. This difference can’t be overstated, as monitoring agents often undergo extensive crisis training and will usually stay on the line with you until help arrives.
Still, if you’re looking to save money, a medical alert with no monthly fee or long-term commitments is certainly better than no protection at all.
If the fees are not a deterrent, I’d recommend checking out my pick for this year’s best medical alert system.
Unmonitored medical alert systems don’t have a 24/7 monitoring staff to take emergency calls. Instead, they’ll connect directly to a 911 operator who will send EMT’s or other help.
Unmonitored medical alert systems from WellBe and Aloe Care Health can be tailored to call either 911 or designated family members, instead of a trained monitoring center.
While Medicare won’t cover the cost of a medical alert system, there are some ways to find discounts through AARP or your local Area Agency on Aging.
Non-monitored medical alert systems are not 24/7 monitored by a monitoring center with trained staff. Instead, the calls are routed to 911 or close contacts.
