Lifeline Medical Alert: Costs, Systems, and Plans
Lifeline medical alert systems performed well in our tests; however, the company charges higher-than-average prices for its devices. In this guide to Lifeline medical alert costs, we'll look at the various prices that go into each of their systems. We'll also review costs for additional features, such as fall detection, and examine the company's contract approach.
FYI: Looking for a medical alert system for $20 per month? Then read our guide to the best medical alert systems overall.
Key Findings
- Lifeline systems are more expensive than industry averages, with monthly costs ranging from $39.95 to $49.95 depending on the model, plus an additional $15 monthly fee for fall detection.
- Lifeline systems require one-time setup fees of $99.95. In the case of the smartwatch, this fee is $159.
- Despite the higher costs, Lifeline offers significant value through reliable 24/7 monitoring, waterproof help buttons with an 800-foot range, and a caregiver app that facilitates caregiver coordination.
- Lifeline provides flexible contract terms with no long-term commitment required, allowing customers to cancel at any time and return equipment.
Lifeline Costs
| In-home system (cellular) | $39.95 per month |
| Mobile system | $44.95 to $49.95 per month |
| Smartwatch | $39.95 per month |
| Fall detection | $15 per month |
| Activation fees | $99.95 – $159 (one-time) |
| Extra users | Not available |
| Protection plan | $6.95 per month |
More Affordable Options
While Lifeline systems performed well in our tests, they're one of the most expensive medical alert brands, particularly for mobile protection. If you want a system for less than $30 per month, we recommend one of the following options.
Lifeline Systems
Lifeline offers five different medical alert systems: two home systems and three mobile systems. The systems vary widely in price, ranging from $39.95 to $49.95 per month. Unlike many other personal emergency systems, Lifeline charges a $99.95 up-front device fee to cover the cost of each system’s equipment. For the Smartwatch system, the upfront fee will be $159.
Pro Tip: To learn more about how home systems compare to mobile systems, check out my guide to medical alert systems for seniors.
Lifeline HomeSafe
Credit: Lifeline
The HomeSafe is Lifeline's home medical alert system. It's best for older adults who spend most of their time at home and includes one in-home base communicator and the option to choose either a help button pendant or a wristband.
The system costs $39.95 a month and requires a one-time device fee of $99.95. The device's base unit acts as a speakerphone; when you press the help button, it immediately calls the Lifeline response center.
The help button works within 800 feet of the in-home communicator and comes with a long-lasting battery that Lifeline will automatically replace when needed. You'll receive a low-battery alert 30 days before your battery runs out, followed by a call from a Lifeline representative to provide a new one. This is so you won't have to worry about keeping batteries in stock at all times. The help button is also waterproof, so it can be worn in the bath or shower, where falls are very common.1
To learn more about this system, check out our hands-on Lifeline review.
Lifeline On the Go
On the Go is the newest addition to Lifeline. It’s a great single-piece system for active older adults who are often out and about, since it provides support anywhere AT&T service is available (most of the country).2 The all-in-one, water-resistant system costs $44.95 a month for the standard version of $49.95 for the Mini version. Both require a one-time equipment fee of $99.95.
Credit: Lifeline
With On the Go’s two-way voice capability, fall detection, and five locating technologies, you can feel confident that help will find you wherever you are. With a rechargeable battery that lasts up to two to three days on a single charge, you won’t have to worry about constantly charging your device.
FYI: Falls are the leading cause of injury for adults ages 65 and older.3 With automatic fall detection, you can prevent a delay in your loved one getting the help they need after a fall.
Lifeline Smartwatch
The Lifeline Smartwatch can increase seniors’ mobility and safety for $39.95 per month plus a $159 one-time equipment fee. This all-in-one system features automatic fall detection technology, heart rate monitoring, and integration with five locating technologies to ensure help arrives precisely where it’s needed.
The device runs on a rechargeable battery and provides access to the personalized response plan through Lifeline's 24/7 monitoring service. Users can check device status online, and caregivers can stay connected through the caregiver app. The smartwatch works anywhere with cellular coverage for both in-home and on-the-go protection.
Lifeline Systems at a Glance
| System | HomeSafe | On the Go | Smartwatch |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monthly price | $40 | $44.95 to $49.95 | $39.95 |
| Initial fees | $100 | $99.95 | $159 |
| For use | In home | In home and away | In home and away |
| Equipment | Base station; Pendant or wristband | Rechargeable battery; Mobile button; Charger | Rechargeable battery; Mobile button; Charger |
| Connection type | Cellular | Cellular, GPS | Cellular, GPS |
| Fall detection | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Caregiver portal | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Lifeline Add-Ons
Key Lockbox
The Key Lockbox provides an extra layer of protection. For instance, if you have an emergency and first responders need to access your home, they can easily use the spare key lockbox to get to you. This way, you don’t have to deal with costly expenses attached to a forced entry.
Price: $2.95 monthly
Purchasing From Lifeline
The simplest ways to purchase a Lifeline system are through the company’s website or by phone, since the full systems aren’t available in brick-and-mortar stores. If you have questions about the systems but you have trouble hearing or do not want to call, Lifeline customer service is also available via live chat during regular business hours.
One thing to keep in mind is that Lifeline requires you to purchase your equipment up front. Your Medical Guardian cost, for example, would be only the monthly lease charge for your system, whereas Lifeline requires an initial equipment charge in addition to the monthly fee.
For installation, you can either self-install or choose in-home installation. If you decide to self-install your Lifeline device, you’ll need to pay for shipping and handling costs when you select the self-installation option during online checkout. From there, you’ll receive a setup guide along with your Lifeline system so you can set it up and activate it.
If you decide to have a Lifeline technician install the device at your home, you’ll receive a call once your order has been placed. From there, you can schedule an in-home installation, which will take roughly two hours to fully install your system.
Lifeline Warranties and Returns
Warranties are specified on the warranty card supplied with your product. Medical alert systems typically offer a one-year limited warranty. For Lifeline, that means if a hardware defect happens in the first year, the company will repair or replace the parts at no charge, exchange it for a new product functionally equivalent to yours, or refund the purchase price. Equipment repaired under warranty is protected for the remainder of your original purchase’s warranty period.
Your system is eligible for return within 30 days of delivery. You must notify Lifeline of your intent to cancel via phone, and you will receive a Return Material Authorization number that must be displayed on your package when you return it. The company will arrange for pickup. You must return your equipment in its original condition.
Tip: With the Lifeline app, your family and friends can create a care circle, which is a network of people actively involved in an older adult’s care.
Lifeline App
Apps are an easy way for your loved ones to stay on top of your care without having to be present at all times. Not all medical alert systems have such user-friendly apps, so the My Lifeline app is a big bonus.
The My Lifeline app is a digital platform that helps caregivers and family members better communicate and coordinate care. Older adults often have many health care providers and family members involved in their circle of care. That makes it priceless to have a place where everyone can share notes, engage with one another, and manage availability. The My Lifeline app informs caregivers about whether their loved one’s alert device is working. It even provides valuable reminders, scheduling tools, step-count monitoring, fall notifications, chat capability among caregivers, and more.
Nearly one in five people in the U.S. is 65 and older.4 If your loved one is among them, this app can help you stay connected with them, even when you can't be physically present.
Lifeline Monitoring
Lifeline agents, trained care specialists, offer 24/7 monitoring in over 140 languages via interpreters. Each medical alert device connects directly to a call center, with pickup times averaging 12 seconds after the help button or AutoAlert fall-detection trigger is activated.
The 200-person team undergoes 80 hours of instruction in gerontology and stress management, plus monitored training for comprehensive support. All response centers have backup plans for power outages or disasters, with calls transferred to another center if technical issues arise. After each call, specialists receive follow-up coaching to ensure excellent service.
FYI: Studies have found that medical alert monitoring of this nature can drastically reduce a person's likelihood of visiting the emergency And in the event of emergency visits, medical alert usage is associated with shorter stays.
Is Lifeline Worth It?
There is definitely some pressure associated with being a leader in the industry, but Lifeline lives up to that standard with reliable service, easy-to-use systems, and an intuitive app. Combined with its personalized service, smart medication dispenser, and award-winning monitoring, it’s hard to beat.
The only downside I see with Lifeline is the cost, which is well above average. Still, sometimes you get what you pay for, and I think Lifeline is well worth it.
Lifeline is great for:
- Reliable service: With more than 50 years in business, consistently high ratings on The SeniorList.com, and a status as the nation’s largest medical alert supplier, Lifeline has a long-standing reputation for providing seniors with world-class service and devices.
- User-friendly systems: Lifeline systems are FDA-approved, easy to use, and well-constructed, and they use advanced technology to ensure safety. The brand also designs their systems with simple self-installation in mind.
- Intuitive mobile app: My Lifeline allows everyone you add to your care network — e.g., family, friends, and professional caregivers — to share care-related information and manage their availability to support you.
- Flexible contracts: Life Alert costs over $50 per month and requires a minimum three-year service agreement. Lifeline costs less and doesn’t require users to sign long-term contracts. To learn more about this provider, check out our Life Alert review.
Lifeline is not ideal for:
- Affordability and fees: Lifeline is one of the best medical alert systems for seniors, but it’s also one of the most expensive. Monthly subscriptions are on the high end, and each system requires an up-front equipment fee between $50 and $100. If you’re looking for something more affordable, check out my ADT medical alert pricing breakdown.
- Limited medical alert options: Lifeline offers just three medical alert products: On the Go, HomeSafe Standard, and HomeSafe with AutoAlert. If you’re looking for more options with more affordable fall detection, I’d recommend reading our Medical Guardian review.
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Lifeline Frequently Asked Questions
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How much does Lifeline cost?
Lifeline systems start as low as $39.95 per month for their HomeSafe system. Add-ons like fall detection are available for additional monthly fees.
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Does Lifeline require long-term contracts?
Unless you choose to pay on an annual basis, Lifeline systems can be canceled at any time, and you can stop making payments. All you have to do is call Lifeline, inform them you wish to cancel, and send back your equipment.
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Can I bring my Lifeline system with me if I move?
Your system can be relocated easily, and Lifeline provides monitoring nationwide. Let Lifeline know about your move a few weeks ahead of time so it can update your profile and transfer your service.
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How do I know my HomeSafe system is working?
Lifeline encourages customers to press the help button once a month during nonemergency situations to ensure the system is working properly.
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Are Lifeline systems waterproof?
The pendants and wristbands are either water-resistant or waterproof, so they are safe to wear in the bath or shower.
