Best Medical Alert Systems Guide & Reviews of 2020

How to protect the lives of our dear ones? Being near them is not always an option, especially with a busy schedule or when living in another state. Still, there is one effective solution — a medical alert system. Nowadays, it is truly considered a helpful device; and when it comes to seniors, a medical alert system can save their lives or prevent any serious injury. Based on popular request, we, the team of Espysecurity, decided to review some of the best solutions on the market. Beyond that, we want to emphasize that our review is independent. So, it is only up to users to choose between the solutions.

List of Content

1. What We Did To Find The Best
2. Top 10 Best Medical Alert Systems of 2020
3. Table Of Content
4. Medical Alert System — What Is It?
5. Different Types Of Alert Systems
6. What Is The Targeted Audience Of These Systems?
7. What Are The Steps To Choosing the Right System for Your Case?
8. FAQS On Medical Alert Systems
9. A Medical Alert System On Guard Of Your Safety

What We Did To Find The Best

When reviewing the best systems, we had a mission to assess them b. We searched for clients’ reviews, ratings, usability among others. Most of the systems we offer to check out are available only with a plan or activation fee, so we ensured to figure their performance as well — if they are worth it at all. Our rating is built only based on our testing, and overall customers’ satisfaction rates. Feel free to use it or refer to the examination of these systems on your own.

Below you can find out what the pillars or else called metrics we paid attention to the most.

To make it easier to understand what one or another provider offers, we assessed their key metrics with scores — from 1 to 10. We also provided a total score based on overall impression and performance. At the beginning of this article, you can have seen three top-picks that gained the lead among other products in the market. Keep in mind, all the providers constantly tend to update, improve, and modify their devices, gadgets, systems, so their overall performance can become better or even worse. Our review is compiled based on June 2020. For more information on adds-on, metrics, you can directly address the inquiry to the actual providers. Enjoy the reading!

Top 10 Best Medical Alert Systems Of 2020

A medical alert system is literally a jack of all trades, however unreal it can sound. First off, it is vital for people with mobility restrictions and certain medical conditions. Secondly, it comes in handy for senior people, who require more protection. It can alert a mental health worker, a nurse, caregivers, or relatives about the potential danger their person is exposed to. It all sounds great, however, another thing concerns the actual selection. There are myriad devices you should review before buying. Now, get comfy! Here, we have researched for you the top medical alert systems worth your money, trust, and time.

ADT Security Services — Best For Seniors` Security

ADT Security Services is one of those companies that can really boast its long-standing position on the market. 146 years of servicing and over 18M employees who daily protect people and save seniors from many potential hazards they are exposed to. This company provides its services to both US and Canada, and, as is estimated, it has over 8M current clients.

As for ADT plans, there are traditionally 3 options. Two fit for in-home installation and usage, and one is fully adjustable for on-the-go operations. The coverage range of their in-home systems is approximately 300 to 600 feet, while the mobile plan includes GPS option that is vital for seniors with dementia, Alzheimer’s, and other medical conditions. They will be promptly found in split seconds.

Pros:

• No activation fee needed
• Landline and non-landline connectivity
• In-home temperature monitoring
• Optional fall detection
• Water-proof medical alert bracelets and pendants
• A lifetime warranty for all their devices
• Free of long-term contracts

Cons:

• Pricey plans
• Limited in features and equipment

Their medical alert BASIC plan works with landline connection and has built-in home temperature monitoring and two-way communication. A user is provided with a water-proof pendant or bracelet that comes with a charger and a designer case. The Medical alert PLUS plan also has a fall detection option. The On-the-Go plan does not require a landline connection,  but it offers GPS location with optional fall detection. In general, their plans are basic, and the performance is decent. Some users also report that the systems are quite pricey, however, the price will not go up once you sign a contract with them. Good news, there are more functions to be added for complete peace of mind.

Bay Alarm Medical — Best For Clients With Low Income

Similar to ADT, Bay Alarm can be proud of long service in the market. Bay Alarm was first introduced to this industry in 1946. As of now, their main office is located in California, with secondary headquarters in Utah and Idaho. Their assortment of products is decent, and it can be proved with the CSAA, as the Central Station Alarm Association has recognized their medical alert systems and approved them for usage in the US. Beyond that, these systems are featured with Five Diamond. Lately, the company decided to extend the product line and introduced an app that allows people to track the number of active users.

Pros:

• Good for people with low income
• Prompt help in case of emergency
• CSAA Five Diamond
• Two-way voice communication
• Water-resistant help button
• Portable Devices
• Servicing Alaska and Hawaii

Cons:

• The Customer Support team can take much time to answer your inquiry
• Non-effective warranty
• Fall detection is optional and costly

Bay Alarm Medical offers in-home and on-the-go plans including in-car monitoring as well.

Their products are really cheap but at the same time, they come with an array of features and flexible functions that fit any type of customer. According to the reviews on their medical alert systems, they are the choice of seniors. And, users also report a good performance of batteries that come with the devices. Based on Google Rating, they have a 4.7 score.

Another new product is their web portal and application which customers can use to get customer support. In addition, they offer 3-level protection, vehicle crash service, and of course, fall detection. Check the trip history, and access the real-time monitoring of what is going on at your home.

Mobile Help — Best For Mobile Operations

Mobile Help offers systems that work both with phone and non-phone lines. Their recognized features are MobileHelp Connect, which is basically an online portal where users’ pings are tracked and filed.

In general, this provider fits not only the seniors, but it is suitable for caregivers and big families as well. Their products are of high-quality and are offered with prompt customer support in case of any misunderstanding or failures.

Pros:

• 4G LTE
• Decent and fast monitoring
• Low pricing
• Available as Add-on Only
• 17-second response time
• Large colored buttons
• Free web and cell mobile apps

Cons:

• The monthly fee is pricy with all the adds-on
• Smartwatch available upon contributing the upfront payment
• No in-home monitoring

All the clients of MobileHelp can join and communicate with the service team through an online platform. The prices are generally low, however, the plans can be pricey if all the adds-on are integrated. The customer care is available in 240 languages.

This company can offer additional features that come in handy for vulnerable members of families, including medication reminders (especially for people with dementia), activity trackers (like Fitbit) to assess the mobility rate, fall detection, as well as alarm locker. Users can also pair these gadgets with other types of medical alert systems. Samsung smartwatch comes as well.

Medical Guardian — Best Among Excellent Brands

Medical Guardian is the most well-known in its brand positioning. Their medical systems fit large houses often left empty. It means that you receive peace of mind whenever you are on a business trip or away for some time. The company provides basic features, but they all correspond to the brand`s high quality. There are monitoring and motion sensors. Beyond that, the devices are water-proof, so there is no need to worry about environmental danger.

Medical Guardian also offers a personal emergency response system with real-time monitoring when you are away.

Pros:

• Variety of plans
• High-quality devices and audio
• Available mobile application
• GPS capability with wide-range coverage
• Water-proof design

Cons:

• High monthly fees
• Hard to choose between plans
• Novel in the market

Medical Guardian is comparatively new to the market (founded in 2005); however, it stands out with a variety of devices, including a recently-introduced smartwatch. Senior people will enjoy the experience of using the system as it is fully user-friendly. As for the plans, there are no long-term contracts, so the cancel-any-time option is available. The customer support services in English and Spanish, with other translation options upon the request.

Users favor their motion and contact sensors.

Great Call — Best For On-the-Go Operations

GreatCall positions itself as the best in solutions for the elderly. The company has been on the market for over 14 years and is recognized mostly for their Jitterbug phones. As for the plans, they offer fully-customizable options without any contributions for extra features that are not in use.

The company uses Verizon network, offers a water-proof design of devices, GPS as well as a mobile application.

Pros:

• Portable and waterproof design
• Optional fall detection
• GPS capability
• Fitness tracker and other health/safety features built-in an app
• Warranty

Cons:

• Fall detection is available for certain gadgets only
• Pricey activation fee
• Limited assortment

GreatCall is one of those companies that take both security and health utmostly seriously. Their personal emergency response systems are offered with flip phones, smartwatches, fitness trackers, and health tips. These features are reported to be pricey, but worthy. Seniors who are connected to their plans can live independently without any third-party help. Still, there is an option to connect the gadgets to caregivers or geriatric nurses for the ultimate peace of mind. Beyond that, one drawback is striking the eyes – their fall detection does not come with all the devices.

LifeStation — Best Overall

LifeStation has been operating in Canada and the US since 1977. They offer a wide range of products, which are constantly updated to fit seniors’ safety. The main office is located in New Jersey.

As of now, the company works with contracts, but they also offer a 30-days money-back guarantee. Their pricing is known as the lowest in terms of monthly rates across the market, and their customer support is there at a first call.

Pros:

• Landline and on-the-go options
• Long-term contracts-free
• Money-back guarantee
• Water-proof buttons
• Battery life in mobile devices can last for 5 days
• A monthly fee is only $19.95
• Prompt customer support team
• Alexa compatibility

Cons:

• As per some users, their fall detection can falsely alert
• Website lack details
• Limited range of coverage

LifeStation offers 3 plans including one for in-home operations Basic, one for in-home operations Plus, and one for on-the-go operations, which comes with GPS. The devices are all user-friendly, easy to install, yet, free of charge. The packages include a fall detection option, that is compatible with all the devices as well as alerts for caretakers. Beyond that, the battery life of devices is quite durable.

One drawback is their website that does not have enough information concerning plans or prices. But, on third-party websites, you can get to know that the plans are affordable or even cheap, the price starting at $19.95. Any digital assistant from customer support is super prompt and attentive, so there have been no dissatisfied customers.

LifeFone — Best For Customer Policies

LifeFone is one of the companies with a large history on the market, namely, 40 years of servicing people. They are known for the prompt and friendly customer support team, policies, price-lock agreements, and 30-days money-back guarantee. One can choose a plan and customize it according to their needs. As for the prices, activation and equipment fees are not charged.

Pros:

• Option for 2 people under one plan
• An array of features and customizable services, such as emergency response
• GPS capabilities
• Health tools
• For On-the-go and In-home operations
• Long-standing on the market

Cons:

• Add-on prices
• Audio quality is below average
• Weak range of coverage

LifeFone offers high-quality devices, and 4 plans, including one for in-home operations with a traditional and cellular connection, another for in-home and on-the-go operations, and two portable ones with GPS option. One can add optional fall detection, which is cheap, as well as spouse monitoring if needed. Users admire this company for its friendly and convenient policies with no long-term contracts. The mobile plan comes with a 30-day battery life warranty.

Life Alert — Best For Health Monitoring

Life Alert is truly one of the best for health, reviews claim. The company has existed since 1987 and many people recognize it thanks to TV commercials. Life Alert receives over 2M calls every year.

They offer 3 plans: two are landline, and one is cellular.

Pros:

• Fire/smoke/carbon monoxide alarms
• Mobile capability+app
• Long-standing
• TMA Five Diamond certification
• Discounts

Cons:

• Pricey plans
• Long-term contracts
• Not available fall detection

Even though the company boasts a long-standing position in the market, their plans are quite expensive, and with no free trial. Get a full refund if the client passes away alone in the main unit.

Be ready for long-term contracts. They offer automatic testing of the performance, so a client can ensure that everything works properly. Beyond that, their medical alert devices have wireless buttons for help, a and two-way communication system.

Philips Lifeline — Best Recognition On The Market

Philips Lifeline has been on the market for 45 years and is well-known as the first provider of medical alert devices on the market. Their alarm button was introduced in 1972, and, at that time, only hospitals had call-centers. With time, the company has built many offices across the country, known for the utmost quality of services. The company offers in-home and on-the-go plans, also called HomeSafe/GoSafe.

Pros:

• Over 200 response centers
• 140 languages available
• Customizable plans
• Optional fall detection
• Water-proof pendant and devices
• Landline and cellular connections
• Available dispenser for medications

Cons:

• Non-Five Diamond
• No compatibility for smart-home
• High fees

With Philips Lifeline, users can choose landline or cellular connections alongside optional fall detection. Their GoSafe/GoSafe 2 plan is fully portable and fits seniors who are into an active lifestyle. Their devices can come with pro installation and DIY.

Protection is available indoors and outdoors with the only difference in features. Beyond that, their pendants come with two-way audio, and GPS.

Philips Lifeline answers around 18K calls per day and provides support in a variety of languages.

Medical Alert — Best For Responsiveness

Medical Alert is one of the major PERS providers. They offer services for both regular clients and hospitals. They also offer monitoring plans for non-residents of the US. Medical Alert has in-home devices that come as plug-and-play, so they are user-friendly and easy to install. As for other plans, there are two for in-home and one for on-the-go operations. Their prices are among the lowest on the market.

Pros:

• Long-term plans-free
• Available fall detection
• GPS capability
• Landline and cellular
• Mobile app for monitoring and control
• Two-way audio
• Support in multiple languages

Cons:

• Limited features
• Fall detection comes at an additional price
• One-month free trial only

Medical Alert is considered a cheap plan on the market. Their devices are easy to install and come with light buttons and durable batteries. Fall detection costs $10.

Medical Alert is for users with their short-term contracts. Furthermore, their customer support accepts calls in a variety of languages.

It fits best those who mostly stay home.

Comparison Table

Check out the brief comparison of medical alert systems.

Medical Alert System — What Is It?

A medical alert system is a system that provides in-home or on-the-go monitoring of the most vulnerable members of a family, seniors among others. It allows identifying the danger a senior can be exposed to and promptly addresses it. If fits best those who have a medical condition or the elderly, in the first place. However, there is also a tendency to protect houses with these systems in advance, as no one knows what can happen to a healthy or young person. Nowadays, the market accommodates dozens of medical alert systems available for any taste, paying capacity, design preferences. To crown it all, there are many certifications and features that help to choose which system can fit a particular case.

Features

The most important features of medical alert systems are two-way communication and their portability. First, a person can promptly communicate with the monitoring center and alert them about a potential danger. Secondly, seniors do not need to stay day and night at home to avoid outdoor dangers. Beyond that, a medical alert system offers the customers the following features.

• 24-hour Response

It means that a user receives full monitoring 24/7. The system can send emergency alerts in case of any problem detected. A caregiver who is away can be informed about what is going on at the home of the person under their care. A lot of modern people are traveling, so if you are one of them, and you have parents who have medical conditions, consider having a medical alert system to be sure there is no threat to them.

• Fall Detection

It fits those people with mobility issues, especially, when they are at home alone. Some companies make it a built-in option, while some charge for it additionally. There can be help buttons or wall buttons that will help to alert the monitoring center that a person fell and got the injury. You can allocate the buttons where such risks are possible.

• Two-Way Communication

A user can talk to the monitoring center, and inform them about specific needs. Usually, a panic button is included. Keep in mind, some systems can raise false alarms. Read the reviews on systems, where users describe their experience with this flaw.

• GPS

It comes in portable devices, and perfectly fits those who have Alzheimer’s, as their locations are monitored on a regular basis. There is no need to stay home all the time if a senior has a wristband, smartwatch, or necklace with a pendant.

• Wide range of coverage

This feature is a must-have for on-the-go operations, so seniors can be easily located. Usually, the systems come with 300–600 feet coverage, but some providers offer one up to 1300 feet.

• Water-resistance in the design

Consider it when living in humid areas, however, do not consider it water-proof, as it resists only a small amount of water.

• Easy Installation

Mostly, it means DIY installation, so seniors will not need any help to install and use the gadget. However, the customer support of one company should still offer assistance in case of any misunderstanding or troubles with the devices.

• Double Coverage

It fits couples living together, as they can use the same medical alert system. Beyond that, it will not require double expenditure.

• Automatic Check Out

It helps to check whether the medical alert system works properly. It autotests itself weekly, monthly, or even daily. It helps to check the lifecycle of the system and prevent any damages or unwanted reparation.

• Lockboxes To Get In

Lockbox stores the keys, so in case of any emergency situation, the medical staff can enter the house without breaking through the door or windows.

• No Need To Carry Devices

There are wall buttons to place in different risk-areas. Fits those who do not want to wear devices on themselves.

• Multilingual customer service

Usually, English and Spanish come as a basic language. However, there are other language options available.

Different Types of Alert Systems

There are two basic types of systems — in-home and on-the-go, where the first fits those who stay mostly at home, while the second is perfect for seniors who live an active life.

Landline System Or Cellular System

It is vital to understand which system you need either landline or cellular.

Landline

The landline is wired and connected to the phone line. It is a great solution for those who live in rural areas, as neither weather nor power outrages will taint the performance. Above all, it is cheaper.

Pros:

• Cheap
• Weather-resistant
• Stable
• Perfect for rural area

Cons:

• Lines can be cut
• For at-home use only
• No mobility option

Cellular

Cellular systems are wireless. Such devices are portable and can be used wherever one goes; however, unlike the landline ones,  they can suffer from weather conditions.

Pros:

• Wireless
• Mobile
• Wider coverage
• Portable
• Easy to use

Contracts Or No Contracts

Different companies have various approaches to contracts. Some can offer long-term ones, some have a “cancel anytime” option. Always do pay attention to money-back guarantee or free activation. That will protect you from huge expenses, especially if you chose a long-term contract.

Water-proof / Water-Resistant Devices

Mins the difference! Check out what fits you best.

Water-proof

A water-proof camera can be fully covered with water with no potential for any damage. A senior person can take a device in the shower, and it will still work perfectly.

Pros:

• Resists large amounts of water
• Hard to break
• Suitable for shower
• Works under the rain

Cons:

• Pricey
• Weighty

Water-resistant

Water-resistant devices cannot withstand large amounts of water, so it is forbidden to expose them to such impacts.

Pros:

• Convenient
• Withstands light humidity
• Durable
• Cheaper

Cons:

• can be easily broken
• Not value for the price

Home or Portable

The monitoring centers can receive alerts differently, including landline, wireless, or cellular ways. That is why users should also choose between home and portable devices.

Home Systems

Landline

The device is connected to the monitoring center via a phone line. Fits those who stay mostly at home.

Wireless

It is connected via Wi-Fi. Perfect in case the Internet breaks down.

Cellular

It is connected via a cell tower signal.

Portable Systems

Bracelets

Come as ordinary ones, and some have built-in two-way communication, a help button among others.

Necklaces & Pendants

Come in different styles for both men and women, with the same features as bracelets. They are comfortable for daily use, just like a regular necklace.

Watches

Come shaped like ordinary watches, with some features like reminders or trackers. One can also connect them with their mobile phones.

What Is The Target Audience Of These Systems?

Most of the time, the first-line users are seniors with medical conditions, and those who do not have them, but their beloved ones want them to be safe. To provide these people with the utmost safety, their children often buy medical alert systems and can worry less afterward.

• Seniors

Seniors without grandchildren are also among the target audience, as they should receive assistance in case they are alone and have no one to ask for help. Besides, it concerns seniors with mental health conditions, who cannot identify dangerous situations and unaware of what can harm them.

• Retirees

Retirees are not all the same: some can feel depressed when they reach retirement age and can need help from a mental health worker or geriatric nursing workers. Such technological medical care helps to assess them on safety and well-being. Beyond that, it can protect them from getting injured.

• Patients with Epilepsy

Patients with epilepsy are mostly prescribed with designated medications and require skilled nursing; however, some patients can fail to respond to their helpers effectively. A medical alert system will alert caregivers or relatives about a fit, and they will call emergency service.

• Patients with Diabetes

Patients with diabetes are exposed to seizures and comas when their blood sugar level is dropped. Whenever your parents have this medical condition, you should be sure if whether they take medications or receive injections on time. The system can alert you about what is going on at home and call for emergency help immediately.

• People with Alzheimer’s Disease

People of this category need portable devices all the time, as they can get lost. It can be considered as a nurse’s aide device. Beyond that, designated watches, necklaces, pendants are comfortable to wear. Upon the request, you can customize them to fit personal style or preferences.

• Caregivers

When a caregiver or a geriatric nurse is away from their wards, they can be sure everything is under control.

What Are The Steps Of Choosing The Right System For Your Case?

There are myriads of medical alert systems and similar assistive technologies, so it is challenging to choose one. Most people pay attention to the price and look for discounts, but such an approach does not guarantee safety and protection. It is vital to check the features and understand their performance as well, and, most importantly, to assess each system, taking into consideration your particular needs.

Here are 5 tips on how to choose the best medical devices that will not let you down in an emergency situation.

• Find A Price Corresponding To Your Budget

You want to stick to devices that you are able to pay for. Many medical alert systems come at $20–$40 per month and include GPS; however, it refers to in-home devices. If you require utmost safety for your beloved ones when they are away from home, portable or on-the-go devices can be the best choice, but they come at higher prices. In any case, think twice before affording yourself a device that is priced above your budget. It will help to avoid unnecessary expenses on adds-on functions.

• Consider The Policies

You do not always need a long-term contract to use a medical alert system, as it can only spoil your nerves once you decide to unsubscribe. Especially, it concerns 3-year contracts, which are widely popular among the providers. Look for companies with free-contract plans, and also ask about free trials to check the system`s short-time performance.

• Look For The Best Quality

Do not think that seniors can be secure with a basic plan without any additional features. Seniors are protected when a system provides them with safety and protection both in-home and while on the go. Choose waterproof and water-resistant materials.

• Refer To Clients’ Feedback

Always read reviews. Consider the most common drawbacks. Yet, you should be very careful, as some reviews are paid for, and there are negative opinions from competitors. Trust verified review-websites only.

• Evaluate Customer Support

Try to call the provider, assess how the team members talk to you, or how they provide services and offer their plans. Remember that this customer support will be with you all the time until you unsubscribe. Ensure they have a translation service if you do not speak English or Spanish.

FAQS About Medical Alert Systems

• Can Medicare Cover These Medical Alert Systems?

Medicare does not cover these medical alert systems, as they are not considered vital to one’s health, strange as it can sound. Yet, it is worth saying that Medicare Part C can cover some of the systems, but it will greatly depend on many factors, such as the insurance type, and the state where a person lives. Ask your insurance provider to learn more.

• What Is The Best Alert For Seniors?

MobileHelp can be considered one of the best for seniors because it offers high-quality products. Besides, they offer smartwatch and easy installation. No need for a landline connection. And above all, you can use the DUO plan which fits two people with no extra charge.

• What Is The Monthly Fee For Life Alert?

Life Alert will charge you monthly between $95–$198. But t depends on the type of equipment you want to have for your system. The company offers pro and DIY installation; however, there are activation fees charged. The cost of monitoring varies between $49.95–$89.95. In addition, they have a long-term contract as one considerable drawback.

• Does Life Alert Really Save A Life Every 11 Minutes?

According to the statement on their official website, yes they do. However, it means that they save users from potential danger or hazards, so do not take it too seriously. Every company can use such promising words to attract trustful customers.

• Are There Any Free Of Charge Devices?

Yes, and you can access them through LifeLine federal government programs. People with low incomes are eligible for them. Furthermore, free devices are available with some private insurance plans. And you can also find discounts and special offers that cut the price on the devices. For further info, ask the providers directly or search for third-party online aggregators that offer such service.

A Medical Alert System on Guard of Your Safety

As you understood, choosing a medical alarm system can be very hard. We did our best to facilitate your research. We have reviewed systems independently with no paid promotions on recommending one or another device. The pricing, features, usability, everything was covered to stop you from making a bad choice. Still, it is up to you, which system to turn to. Weigh up your budget and what a person you love or care will need the most in any emergency situation. Ask for his/her style or design preferences, the choice of a necklace, or a smartwatch if you chose a portable system. Then, consider the areas the person visits the most, so you can clearly choose the best range of coverage, etc.

Beyond that, you can always contact the preferred provider (one of the listed above or chosen by yourself) and ask about additional benefits that fit your particular case. For the best results, prepare a list of questions in order not to miss a thing.

With these life-saving devices from Espysecurity, you can create a semblance of a geriatric unit at home, where your parents or grandparents are safe and sound and feel that your care about them. Thank you for reading our review!