Getting a medical alert system can be one of the best decisions for you or a loved one. Knowing you can get help instantly while living independently on your terms gives peace of mind.
The decision to get a medical alert system may be easy, but finding the right system is anything but. With dozens of companies offering a wide range of devices with different functions and capabilities at countless price points, finding the best medical alert system for you can feel like trying to find a needle in a haystack.
We’re here to help. Our ultimate buyer’s guide outlines the different types of medical alert systems, additional services, and how to get the most out of your system to help you make a confident decision. Let’s start by explaining exactly what a medical alert system is before we dive into what you should know about the different types of medical alert systems.
What is a medical alert system?
A medical alert system is a handy device that makes it easy for you or a loved one to get help with the push of a button. Whether you’re having symptoms associated with a heart attack, you fall getting out of the shower, or you’re experiencing any other kind of medical emergency, you can push the button and be connected to an emergency response agent.
Systems include two-way communication so you can speak to an emergency response agent directly through an in-home base station or a wearable on-the-go device, depending on which type of medical alert system you have. Agents have access to your personal file, which includes your medical needs as well as emergency contacts. With the emergency response agent, you’ll decide whether to call a friend, a family member, a neighbor, or emergency services. If you cannot speak, the emergency response agent will immediately send emergency services to your location.
With some systems, you may not have to push the button to get help. Medical alert systems with fall detection automatically place a call if the mechanism inside the device detects a sudden change in your speed and orientation.
Although it’s technically true that you could use your cell phone to call for help, a medical alert system is the fastest, simplest, and most reliable way to get help in a medical emergency. Medical alert devices are lightweight and easy to wear, even when you don’t have your phone on you, like while taking a shower. There’s also no need to search through your contacts or type in a number. All you have to do is push the button.
Medical alert systems come with a certain level of comfort and familiarity, too. The person on the other end of the line already knows your medical history and needs. They can get in touch with the right person and pass along pertinent information to emergency services so you don’t have to.
Types of medical alert systems
If it’s time to get a medical alert system, your first big decision is whether you want an in-home or an on-the-go system.
In-home medical alert systems
In-home medical alert systems are used in and around the home. They include a base station that has a help button and a two-way speaker. They also pair with wearable emergency pendants or buttons meant to be worn around the neck or wrist. Most pendants are small, lightweight, round, and black or white. You can also find emergency buttons that look like jewelry. For example, both Bay Alarm Medical and LifeFone offer stylish buttons.
When you push the button on your base station or your wearable button, no matter what room you’re in, you connect to the base station and communicate with an emergency response agent through its two-way speaker. Wearable emergency buttons on these systems do not contain a speaker. All communication must take place through the base station. If you are out of the base station’s hearing range and therefore unable to communicate, the agent will automatically send emergency services to the home address listed in your profile.
Traditional in-home medical alert systems use a landline telephone connection in addition to being plugged into a power outlet. They are designed to be left inside the home, but you can take them with you when you travel or if you move. You just have to notify customer service of your new address, as they use the location you have on file when sending emergency responders.
Other in-home systems, like Bay Alarm Medical’s SOS Home Cellular system, use a cellular signal. You have a little more flexibility with a cellular in-home medical alert system. It’s much easier to move it around inside your home. You can take it into the bathroom or the bedroom because you don’t have to plug it into a telephone jack. Although cellular in-home systems still plug into power outlets, most base units have a backup battery, so you can even take them outside while you garden or sit on the patio.
However, if cellular signal strength is an issue for you because you live in a rural area, you will want to choose a landline-based in-home system. It may also be a better choice if you’re on a strict budget, as landline systems tend to cost less than cellular systems.
On-the-go medical alert systems
If you want protection not only while you’re at home but also when you’re out and about, you’ll want to consider an on-the-go medical alert system. These wearable systems utilize a cellular signal, connecting you with an emergency response agent no matter where you go. If you experience an emergency and push the button, you’ll speak to the agent directly through the device’s built-in two-way communication. Instead of using the address they have on file when sending emergency services to your location, units use a combination of cellular, Wi-Fi, and GPS capabilities to figure out exactly where you are before sending help.
On-the-go systems serve as both the base station and emergency button in a single unit that you can wear around the neck or clipped to a belt. Some can also be paired with traditional emergency buttons, allowing you to wear a small, lightweight button and keep your on-the-go unit in your purse, clipped to your belt, or on your nightstand instead.
On-the-go medical alert systems are also available as smartwatches, which can be an especially good choice for tech-savvy seniors and loved ones who want to get more out of their device than just emergency response services. For example, LifeFone offers a smartwatch option that allows you to monitor your heart rate, view daily weather, and use location services to track your loved one’s whereabouts.
It’s important to charge your on-the-go medical alert system regularly. Charging your device each night is recommended, although the frequency will depend on your particular unit. Devices that pair with emergency buttons are especially handy because you can continue using your device as a base unit while it’s charging.
Pendants and devices
Medical alert system companies offer a wide range of pendants and devices. Here’s a quick rundown of the different types of systems and accessories you’ll want to consider:
- In-home base stations: Base stations include an emergency button and two-way voice communication. Landline and cellular systems are available. They need to be plugged into a power outlet, but many also have a backup battery in the event of a power outage.
- On-the-go devices: These all-in-one devices feature an emergency button and a two-way speaker. Most also include the ability to activate fall detection. They are small and lightweight enough to be worn around the neck or clipped to a belt. They must be charged regularly, but you can still use them while they’re in their charging cradle. Place it on your nightstand so the button is within reach, or choose a system compatible with help button pendants.
- Smartwatches: In addition to emergency services, smartwatches also offer other capabilities, like health monitoring, location services, weather updates, and more, depending on the particular watch you choose.
- Help buttons: Help buttons are compatible with in-home base stations and some on-the-go devices. They are worn around the neck or wrist, and because they are waterproof, they can be taken into the shower. The buttons’ batteries last for years without needing to be charged.
- Fall detection buttons: Traditional help buttons do not include fall detection. If you want your button to automatically detect a fall and place a call on your behalf, you’ll want to get a separate fall detection button. These buttons are waterproof and use button batteries like traditional help buttons, so they don’t need to be charged. Most on-the-go systems offer built-in fall detection capabilities that can be activated for an extra charge.
- Wall buttons: These buttons are compatible with in-home systems and some on-the-go systems. They can be stuck directly to the wall in high-risk areas, like the bottom of the stairs or next to the bathtub.
- Lockboxes: Most medical alert system companies offer lockboxes. Simply place your home’s key inside the box and put it somewhere safe outside your home on your property. When emergency services arrive, they can get inside without breaking a window or damaging your door.
Key features and functions of medical alert systems
Because there are different types of systems, like the at-home or on-the-go systems we described above, some offer different features and serve different purposes than others. Let’s go over some of the features that many medical alert systems have and the functions they serve.
Monitored vs. unmonitored medical alert systems
Nearly all modern medical alert systems are monitored systems. That means you’ll be connected to an emergency monitoring center when you push your button. Some medical alert system providers use third-party companies, while others operate their own centers. One is not necessarily better than the other, but it is a good idea to see what kind of training emergency response agents undergo and whether the response center has been accredited or won any awards. It’s also a good idea to look for redundant centers, which means more than one center operates at any given time. If there’s an outage, the other center takes the emergency calls, ensuring their customers are protected no matter what.
Monitored medical alert systems are handy because they enable you to set up a personalized emergency action plan. Your file contains your specific health information so call center agents can inform emergency responders about your situation on your behalf. Your file can also include alternate people, like friends, family, neighbors, or caregivers, who can be notified whenever you experience a medical emergency.
Although unmonitored systems are uncommon in the industry, they do exist. For example, Medical Guardian offers a separate wall-mounted button called the Elite 911. Instead of connecting you to Medical Guardian’s monitoring center, it calls 911 directly.
No matter which type of system you choose, just make sure you know whether it’s monitored or unmonitored so you know exactly what level of service you’re getting.
Short vs. long range of the medical alert system
You’ll also want to look at each medical alert system’s range. Some systems have a short range of 600 feet, while others, like LifeFone, have a whopping 1,300-foot range. A longer range is better for large homes, while those in smaller homes may be fine with a 600-foot range.
Fall detection
Fall detection is a key feature of the best medical alert systems for seniors. You will want to look carefully at each system you’re considering to determine if it is compatible with fall detection or if fall detection is provided. For example, many on-the-go devices have built-in fall detection that you can activate, for which you must pay a monthly fee. Most in-home systems require wearing a different pendant if you want fall detection. Some systems don’t include fall detection at all, which might not be a problem if falls aren’t a concern, but you don’t want to end up with a system that doesn’t have fall detection if it’s something you need now or if it’s something you anticipate needing in the future.
Non-emergency assistance
Most medical alert systems offer help in situations that go beyond medical emergencies. You push the button if you’re experiencing painful or uncomfortable medical symptoms, but you can also push the button if there’s a burglary in your home or your power has gone out during a dangerous storm. Some companies even offer additional services, like Lively’s Nurse On-Call, which enables you to talk to a registered nurse about medical concerns without having to schedule an appointment with your doctor.
Helpful phone apps for caregivers or account information
Many medical alert system companies offer apps with features like location tracking, but app features may not be available on all devices, so make sure you dig into the details. LifeFone, for example, has a handy Caregiver Mobile App that can do things like locate a lost medical alert device and track steps, but it is only currently available with one of their systems. In most cases, at the very least, the app is a handy way to update personal information and payment details without having to call customer service, even if it doesn’t include extra features.
How to choose the right medical alert system
Assembling all the information you need to decide which medical alert system is right for you can feel overwhelming. Below is a list of what you need to consider so you can narrow down your options and choose the right system. We follow up with a description of how to consider each of these aspects of a medical alert sytem.
- Does an in-home or on-the-go system work better for your needs?
- Do you want fall detection?
- Do you need a long range for the system?
- Do you have a preference about whether you rent or buy the equipment?
- Do you need a long battery life, or will you be able to charge the wearable as needed?
- Do you need or want caregiver tools?
- Will the typical speaker volume be loud enough?
- Do you need or want spouse monitoring?
In-home or on-the-go system
First, you must decide whether you want an in-home or on-the-go system. If you don’t get out much or are always with a loved one or a caregiver when out of the home, an in-home medical alert system might be the best choice. If you often run errands on your own, meet with friends, or are otherwise out and about, an on-the-go system might be the best choice. It all depends on your lifestyle and when and where you want protection.
Keep an eye on whether the system uses a landline or a cellular connection. If you live in a rural area, an in-home, landline-based unit might be best. If the system uses a cellular connection, make sure you don’t need a separate cellular contract. Most don’t, but a few do, so it’s worth double-checking.
Fall detection
Once you’ve narrowed down whether you want an in-home or on-the-go system, you’ll want to make a decision about whether you want fall detection. If you do, you’ll want to make sure it’s available on the system you’re interested in, as it isn’t available on all systems. You’ll also want to learn about extra fees, as fall detection costs extra on nearly every medical alert system.
Although you may not need fall detection now, it might be something you anticipate needing in the future. If so, you might choose a system with optional fall detection that you can easily activate when needed.
Range
Knowing the range of your system is essential if you decide on an in-home medical alert system. You’ll have to choose a system that covers every area of your home.
Range may also be something to consider with an on-the-go system. Although the device can be taken with you wherever you go, some also function as a base station when in the charging cradle. For example, Bay Alarm Medical has a system like this that enables you to wear a help button and use the portable device as a base station while it’s charging in your home, but it only has a 600-foot range, which may not be sufficient if you have a large home.
Renting or buying equipment
Some medical alert system providers sell their equipment to you. Startup costs for these systems can be high because they include equipment fees, but it can make canceling your service easier because you don’t have to return the equipment.
Other systems rent out their equipment. Startup costs are lower since you aren’t buying the system, but if you decide to cancel, you must return all the equipment. If you don’t, the company will continue billing you until you do.
Keep in mind that renting the equipment doesn’t necessarily mean you automatically get free replacements. Companies will replace equipment that is faulty due to a manufacturing error, but not user error or accidents. Some companies also don’t cover battery replacement for help buttons. Instead, most offer some kind of protection plan for an additional monthly fee that covers replacing damaged equipment and batteries.
Battery life
You should be aware of three separate types of batteries when shopping for a medical alert system.
First, you need to know if the in-home systems you’re considering have a backup battery. Although they plug into a power outlet, the system you choose should have a decent backup battery so it still functions in the event of a power outage.
Second, you’ll want to consider the battery life of rechargeable devices. They can vary widely, from just 12 hours or less in the case of Bay Alarm Medical’s SOS Smartwatch to a whopping 168 hours for Medical Guardian’s MGMini. It’s also a good idea to know how long devices take to charge, as anytime your device is in its charging cradle, you may not be fully protected since you can’t carry it around with you.
Third, you need to know the battery life of your help buttons. These are not rechargeable. Most button batteries last for years, but fall detection pendants may not last as long since they use more battery power. Most companies will notify you if your help button batteries are running low, while others will automatically send you a replacement. Ensure you know how you’ll be notified if your battery is running low and whether you’ll be responsible for replacing it.
Caregiver tools and apps
If you’re working with a caregiver or want to monitor your health, well-being, and activity levels, you’ll want to check into any caregiver tools and apps that may be available with the systems you’re interested in.
Apps offer many different capabilities, but services available within apps can vary widely by company and even by devices offered by the same company. If these tools are important to you, make sure you narrow down your medical alert system choices according to which ones offer robust support for caregivers and the health-conscious capabilities you’re looking for.
Speaker volume
You may need to consider whether the speaker will be loud enough, especially if you or your loved one is hard of hearing. The volume can be difficult to judge without checking out the system yourself. If it’s important to you, consider speaking with a sales representative about how loud the speaker is and whether it can be turned up or down. You may also want to choose a system with a free trial or a 30-day money-back guarantee. If the speaker isn’t loud enough, you can return the system and get a full refund.
Spouse monitoring
If you live with a spouse, you might want to consider spouse monitoring. Many systems require a separate system for both partners, which can be expensive. Other systems, like LifeFone’s basic at-home systems, offer free spousal protection, so you can both be protected for the price of a single system.
Setting up the medical alert system
All medical alert systems are relatively easy to set up, but there are some differences depending on the type of system you choose.
In-home systems must be plugged into a power outlet, and landline systems must also be plugged into a traditional telephone jack.
On-the-go systems all have some sort of charging cradle or port that must be plugged into power. It’s recommended that you keep your charger next to your bed so you can place your device in the charging cradle at night and pick it up again first thing in the morning.
You will also want to set up your personal file with the medical alert system company. It should include your medications, current medical conditions, allergies, and an up-to-date list of who to call if you experience an emergency.
Testing and maintenance
All medical alert systems should be tested when they are first set up. All you have to do is push your emergency button and notify the emergency response agent that you’re testing your system.
Some systems recommend monthly testing, while others have specific indicator lights and notifications for when the system isn’t properly connected. Some also have reset buttons and special test buttons to ensure your system is working properly. It’s important to learn the specifics of your system so you know exactly how to test it. It’s helpful to have the customer service number handy, too. If you aren’t sure if your alert system is working or if your system is telling you it isn’t working and you don’t know how to fix it, you can call in for assistance.
Medical alert systems require next to no maintenance, except when it comes to charging on-the-go devices or replacing batteries in your help button. Most rechargeable devices have an indicator light that tells you when the battery is getting low. Some can even notify you or a caregiver about low battery charge through an app. These devices usually have an indicator light when charging as well, so you know when your device is fully charged.
When it comes to help buttons, make sure you choose a medical alert system provider who will notify you when your battery is low. You may also want to consider signing up for a protection plan that will automatically replace your help button for free when the battery runs low so you don’t have to figure out how to replace it yourself.
Emergency response process
The emergency response process is designed to go smoothly when you’re using a medical alert system. It starts when you push your emergency button, or if you have fall detection, it starts when your device registers a fall and places the emergency call on your behalf.
Response times vary by system, but virtually all answer your call within 60 seconds after you push the button. Some, like LifeFone, claim to answer calls in as little as 15 seconds. If you have a serious medical condition where every second counts, you’ll want to look for a medical alert system with quick response times.
Once connected, you speak to the emergency response agent directly through your in-home base station or on-the-go pendant. They gain immediate access to your file when you push your button, so they know who you are, your medical needs, and who your care team is as soon as you start talking. You tell them about your situation, and together, you determine who to call, whether emergency services, a loved one, or a neighbor.
If you can’t or don’t respond or the emergency response agent can’t understand you, they will automatically send emergency services to your location. Your location is determined by what’s listed in your file if you’re using an in-home system. If you’re using a portable medical alert system, companies generally use a combination of Wi-Fi, GPS, and cellular capabilities to pinpoint your location.
Many medical alert system companies have their agents stay on the line with you until help arrives, but some don’t. If that’s important to you, you’ll want to confirm that agents remain on the line with callers before you decide on a system.
All relevant information about the situation is shared with emergency services and loved ones on your notification list. This enables you to get help even faster because you aren’t wasting time telling emergency responders what medications you’re taking or if you have allergies when you’re in the middle of a crisis.
Once the emergency response agent has contacted the appropriate people and shared important information about your situation and health, the call is considered complete.
Cost and pricing options
Cost is a huge consideration, especially if you or your loved one is on a fixed income. Fortunately, there are a lot of affordable systems out there and quite a few ways to save money on a quality medical alert system.
Monthly subscription services start at around $20, with MobileHelp offering the lowest starting price at just $19.95 per month. In-home units are generally more affordable than on-the-go systems, with some costing nearly $60 per month. It’s important to figure out your budget so you can narrow down your options.
You also have to consider equipment fees, which can cost hundreds of dollars depending on the system you choose. You can find systems that don’t charge equipment fees, but keep in mind that means you’re renting the equipment. If you want to cancel your account, you must return the equipment before they stop billing you.
Fall detection costs extra on every medical alert system, with $10 being the average monthly cost. If fall detection is important to you but you don’t want to pay more than you have to, LifeFone offers fall detection for just $5 per month.
It may be worth looking into whether the medical alert system company you’re interested in offers a price-lock guarantee. Many don’t, but it’s worth checking if you’re on the fence between one medical alert system that offers a price-lock guarantee and another that doesn’t.
You may also want to consider an annual plan if you want to save money. Companies that offer an annual payment option often reduce the overall cost compared to monthly or quarterly plans. Just keep in mind that you owe that money upfront, which can make canceling difficult if you don’t use the full year before you cancel. If you want to try out a medical alert system without committing to it fully, you might want to start with a monthly plan and switch to an annual plan if you decide to keep it.
There are many other ways medical alert system companies try to help you save a little bit of money. They include things like:
- Free shipping.
- Money-back guarantees.
- No cancellation fees.
- Free activation.
- No equipment fees.
- Free lockbox.
- Warranties.
- Free protection for spouses.
Try not to get too caught up in the bells and whistles. Just because a company offers many extra features, it doesn’t mean they have the right device or service for you. It’s much more important to focus on the capabilities and services you need before considering the extra benefits.
Quick tips for getting the most out of your system
You deserve to get the most out of your system, regardless of how much it costs. Here are a few tips to help you use it to its full potential.
If you have a wearable, wear it whenever possible
Start by being honest with yourself about whether you’re actually going to wear a help button. If you think it’s ugly and you don’t think you’ll wear it all the time, it may not be worth the money. You might want to try a company like Bay Alarm Medical that offers stylish accessories that turn help buttons into beautiful jewelry. Would a loved one be willing to clip an on-the-go system to their purse but unwilling to wear a help button? Or maybe they would wear a button if it looks like a watch. These are important things to consider before you sign up for a medical alert system.
Charge the system regularly and as needed
You also need to think honestly about whether you will remember to charge your medical alert system. If you or your loved one has memory issues, they might not remember to charge it regularly, so an in-home system with a help button might be better. Or maybe you know you’ll remember to charge your device, but you might not remember every day, so a device with a multiday battery life might be a better choice than one that has to be charged every night.
Determine the best place for an in-home base station and/or charger
Where you plug in your system matters. Your in-home base station should be centrally located in your home to get the most out of its coverage area. Remember that you’ll have fewer options when it comes to the placement of a landline system. If your base station utilizes a cellular signal, you have a little more flexibility. You can move it to a bedroom at night and into the living room during the day.
Whether you’re using an in-home base station or a charger for an on-the-go system, no medical alert system should ever be plugged into an outlet that operates with a light switch or a GFCI outlet that turns off automatically.
Portable medical alert systems should be plugged in while you’re resting. Place it on your bedside table while you sleep or on an end table in the living room while watching TV. That way, you can still reach and use the button if needed while it’s charging.
Know when it’s appropriate to press the help button
Make sure you know when to push your button and when not to. It can really come in handy if you know you can push your button in the event of a power outage, if you want to change information on your account, or even if you have a medical question. However, some companies allow you to use your help button only in medical emergencies. Know the capabilities of your emergency response agents so you get the most out of their service.
Don’t be afraid to use the help button
Always remember that you will not be charged for pushing the button on your medical alert system. You should never worry about whether you should push your button. If you’re experiencing a medical emergency, always push your button because you pay the same monthly fee, no matter how many times you push it.
Always push your button if you experience a fall, even if you have fall detection. No fall detection pendant is 100% effective, so you should always push your button if you can.
There’s not one medical alert system out there that’s perfect for everybody, but there is one that’s perfect for you. Take your time to weigh the pros and cons of multiple systems so you can find the one that’s right for your needs and your budget.
