Smith 
Medical alert systems have gone digital. These days, they come with GPS, fall detection sensors, and can even sync with your smartphone. Despite these advancements, their main purpose remains unchanged: to give you or your loved ones peace of mind in a medical emergency. If you’re a senior living alone, a caregiver, or someone with a medical condition that might need immediate attention, a medical alert system could be a game-changer.
Learning about the features, both new and old, can simplify your shopping experience and ensure you pick the right system. For more details on how these systems work, tips on choosing the right one, or other options, check out our top list of medical alert systems below.
Top 6 Best Medical Alert Systems for 2024
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LifeStation
LifeStation in New Jersey has over 40 years in the field. They staff their own certified monitoring centers for weekly check-ins, offering peace of mind. They also handle equipment maintenance and battery replacements at no extra charge. With the “Find My Loved One” feature, you can text the call center to locate your loved one, assuming they wear the pendant or bracelet. LifeStation doesn’t require a contract, but offers better rates for long-term commitments, with a 30-day money-back guarantee. -
Connect America – Medical Alert
Medical Alert, part of Connect America, is the largest provider of medical alert systems in the U.S. Their in-home services are robust and feature their own certified call centers. They offer competitive prices without long-term contracts and modern features like fall detection and smartphone integration, powered by AT&T. Their classic system has a 600-foot range with a three-day backup battery. -
Philips Lifeline
A trusted name in medical tech, Philips pioneered fall-detection devices, boasting a 95% success rate. Their systems are high-performing, albeit pricier. They offer in-house monitoring with tiered response levels, like notifying a neighbor for non-medical help. Monthly fees are on the higher side, but there’s no contract, just a 30-day cancellation notice. Mobile products are powered by AT&T. -
Medical Guardian
Based in Philadelphia, Medical Guardian offers in-house monitoring with top certifications and a variety of hardware and service options. They have no contracts, month-to-month payments, and most services come with no equipment fees. Systems range from simple base-remote setups with long range and backup battery to advanced GPS systems. They recently introduced a smartwatch as a medical alert system too. -
Bay Alarm Medical
Bay Alarm has over 70 years in the business, offering flexibility with options to use either Verizon’s or AT&T’s networks. Their GPS systems can last up to 72 hours without charge. Notably, Bay Alarm offers an in-car system for more active seniors. They offer a 14-day free trial and no long-term contracts, but you get a discount for commitments of six months or more. -
MobileHelp
Florida-based MobileHelp offers no-contract services with reasonable rates. They specialize in GPS systems and fall detection. Some customers find the fall detector overly sensitive, but the company boasts a quick 17-second response time. Like Bay Alarm, MobileHelp uses outsourced, certified monitoring centers. You can try their system for 30 days free, but will be charged $350 for equipment if not returned after canceling.
How Medical Alert Systems Work
Originally, medical alert systems had a base unit and a remote, like a necklace or bracelet. Pressing the button on the remote activated the base to call for help. While cell phones have changed emergency response, modern medical alert systems have evolved significantly.
Benefits of Having a Medical Alert System
Modern medical alert systems have upgraded by adding new features, improving customer service, and eliminating long-term contracts. Most systems now provide equipment as part of the service.
Today’s Medical Alert System Features
Modern features include waterproof remotes, fall detection using GPS, custom monitoring to reach out to designated contacts, and professional support like equipment and battery testing.
Finding the Right System for Your Needs
Determine what features you need before making a choice. For example:
- If you’re far from your loved ones, consider professional monitoring, GPS features, and equipment testing.
- For physically healthy but cognitively impaired loved ones, a GPS-enabled system may be helpful.
- If you live nearby but need some support, a basic two-piece system might suffice.
- Active individuals with medical conditions might benefit from advanced GPS-enabled systems.
Some Issues to Look Out For
- Range: Traditional two-piece systems need a range that covers the entire house.
- GPS Limitations: Make sure it actually uses GPS, not just cellular signals, and watch out for frequent charging needs.
- Monitoring: Ensure the service is domestic and certified.
- Access: Check how responders will enter the home. Some systems offer lock boxes.
- Equipment Testing: Some providers offer routine testing, but if not, test it yourself.
Other Options to Consider for Medical Alert Systems
Always look for UL and CSAA certifications and in-house monitoring. Be wary of long-term contracts and surprise equipment fees. Online reviews and BBB ratings can provide additional insights into a company’s reliability.
A Medical Alert System Should Fit the Way You Live
Ultimately, choose a system that matches your needs. Look around, ask questions, and test the features before committing. Regular testing helps ensure the system is ready when needed.
