7 Best Medical Alert Systems of 2024: Expert Tested & Reviewed

Oct 15, 2024

Our Reviews Team spent more than 2,500 hours conducting in-depth research and hands-on testing of medical alert systems in order to confidently recommend the best brands and devices. During our process, we:

Most people shop for medical alert systems after a fall or a medical emergency, and we understand the urgency of your decision-making process. Reviews on this page highlight critical safety features like fall detection, check-ins, and GPS tracking to help you quickly find what you need. For more information on each medical alert provider, read our in-depth individual reviews linked under “Additional Details” below. Researching medical alert systems before a fall or medical emergency is a great precaution and can help reduce anxiety while shopping for the right device. Read more about our medical alert system review methodology.

Some people might still associate medical alert systems with bulky, outdated buttons and the “I’ve fallen and I can’t get up!” slogan from nightly infomercials. Fortunately, today’s medical alert devices are modern, discreet, and full of high-tech features, like voice recognition, step tracking, and health vitals monitoring. And most importantly, a 24/7 connection to a monitoring center.

These devices are valuable safety tools for older adults, people at risk of falling, and anyone living alone.

Our Reviews Team researched and tested the top medical alert systems on the market to help you make an informed decision for yourself or your loved one. Let’s take a look at our picks for the best medical alert systems in 2024.

When choosing a medical alert system, we considered several features, including:

Fall detection: Accurate fall detection is vital for quickly alerting caregivers or emergency services in case of a fall, especially for individuals who may not be able to call for help themselves.

Monitoring response time: A quick response time is essential to ensure quick assistance in the case of a fall or other emergency.

GPS tracking: Accurate GPS tracking allows caregivers to monitor the wearer’s location in real time, providing valuable information in the case of an emergency.

Battery life: A long-lasting battery is important for ensuring the medical alert system always remains operational. Consider devices with rechargeable batteries or the option to purchase extended batteries for longer trips.

Our comparison table below allows you to easily compare prices and features of the best medical alert systems of 2024. When comparing medical alert systems, pay special attention to connection type, device range, and battery life.

Usually, a brand’s at-home or on-the-go systems outshine the other, but we were equally impressed with both from Medical Guardian, making this brand our pick for “Best Overall.” Other factors putting Medical Guardian in the top spot include the at-home systems featuring some of the longest ranges in the industry (1,300–1,400 feet), and the mobile devices’ availability as a lightweight necklace, bracelet, or smartwatch with advanced location tracking, a multi-day battery life, and optional fall detection.

Combine this with the monitoring center’s less than 60-second response time, and this may be why a majority (43%) of our survey respondents use Medical Guardian for their medical alert system. [1] NCOA Adviser Medical Alert Systems Survey. 1,000 respondents. Conducted using Pollfish. Launched November 2021

We set up our Medical Guardian devices by following simple steps in the user guides. Unlike some medical alert systems, the at-home base stations and help buttons must be paired during setup. We didn’t mind this step since the user guide walked us through it, and the base station verbally confirmed when we correctly paired it with the help button.

Our customer service representative was helpful and responsive when helping us set up our account profile on the MyGuardian app. The same representative also helped us test the Mobile 2.0 system (discontinued) when it had a low battery. It took us about two minutes to reach a representative every time we contacted them over the phone.

According to our August 2024 survey of 1,200 medical alert users and caregivers, Medical Guardian users reported the highest level of satisfaction with their ability to hear and understand the monitoring center personnel (83.33%), which implies the devices have great sound quality.

One user we surveyed reported: “It gives my family and I peace of mind whenever I’m not around them, helping me live a normal life like everybody else. It’s quick to send emergency alerts, making me feel safe. But above all, it’s reliable.”

Be aware that Medical Guardian has low customer ratings on its Better Business Bureau (BBB) page—the company has a verified customer review score of 1.07 out of 5 based on 73 reviews. The majority of complaints express difficulties canceling the service and obtaining refunds. Despite the negative reviews, Medical Guardian is still accredited with BBB and has an A+ rating, meaning the company works to respond to and resolve every customer complaint.

“I am very satisfied. I no longer worry about getting hurt with no one to save me.”

Medical Guardian has a higher customer rating on Trustpilot: 3.7 out of 5 stars based on more than 900 reviews. The majority of positive reviews mention the peace of mind users get from their devices, quick emergency response after contacting the monitoring center, and great customer service. Most negative reviews focus on cancelation issues and poor customer service.

Medical Guardian full review

Most mobile medical alert systems include a $100–$200 fee on top of the monthly monitoring fee, but MobileHelp doesn’t charge extra fees for most devices. There’s only one device with an extra fee—a $49.95 processing fee for the Classic at-home system—but the company waives it with quarterly, semiannual, or annual payment plans. It’s this lack of fees that led us to designate MobileHelp as “Best Value.” We also like the variety of devices available, including a smart tablet at-home system with games, a photo gallery, and a health database.

During our August 2024 survey, one user said: “It has impacted my life in both positive and negative ways. Because I have it, people think I’m not able to do certain things, but it allows me to have the confidence that if I need it, I have the option to use it. It allows me to be a bit safer in my home and my community.”

These bundled packages can be a good money-saving option for households with more than one person:

Overall, MobileHelp medical alert systems were relatively easy to set up. Setting up the mobile systems only required two steps outlined in the quick start guide. We didn’t like that the model we tested didn’t have a complete user guide to walk us through its available features. A thorough user guide would have been helpful since this smart tablet base station has many extra features.

The MobileHelp customer service phone number was listed on our invoice, but it would have been helpful to have it in the quick start guide as well. During one of our calls to customer service, we had to wait more than five minutes and click through several menu options before speaking with a representative.

MobileHelp has positive customer ratings on its BBB page, with a verified customer review score of 4.8 out of 5 based on more than 200 reviews. The majority of reviews express satisfaction with friendly customer service and quick response times. MobileHelp is accredited with BBB and has an A+ rating, meaning the company works to respond to and resolve every customer complaint.

“It definitely feels safer than not having it. Other people are also more comfortable knowing that I have it.”

MobileHelp has an “Excellent” rating and 4.8 out of 5 stars, with Trustpilot based on more than 2,600 reviews. A majority of reviews praise the brand’s helpful, knowledgeable customer service representatives and quick response during an emergency. Some negative reviewers thought fall detection was too sensitive, while others had issues canceling the service.

MobileHelp review

We were impressed with the quality and features of Bay Alarm Medical’s devices. The range of devices and the starting monthly prices earned the products the title of “Best Variety.” The Reviews Team likes the range of device options (landline or cellular at-home system, two mobile systems, and a smartwatch), as well as the two-for-one bundles, intuitive caregiver app, 45+ second response time, and high BBB customer review rating.

Consider one of the bundled packages if you want to monitor two people in one home:

Getting started with our Bay Alarm Medical systems was a smooth process. We didn’t have to activate our medical alert systems before using them. The general directions for all devices we tested were to plug it in (at-home system) or charge it (mobile and smartwatch), and then it was ready to use.

Overall, the customer service representatives we spoke with were friendly and helpful. During a call with a representative, they explained how emergency contacts worked and offered to help set up our contacts in the online portal. It took us less than a minute to talk with someone over the phone.

Bay Alarm Medical has high customer ratings on its BBB page—it has a verified customer review score of 4.24 out of 5 based on 141 reviews. The majority of the medical alert company’s reviews express satisfaction with helpful customer service and easy device setup. Bay Alarm Medical is accredited with BBB and has an A+ rating, meaning the company works to respond to and resolve every customer complaint.

“I like it. It got me rescued during an emergency.”

The company has a “Bad” rating on Trustpilot, with 1.3 out of 5 stars based on more than 900 reviews. Many negative reviews mention poor-quality products that didn’t connect to the monitoring center during an emergency. Other reviewers experienced poor customer service and difficulty canceling the service. Positive reviews cite how simple it is to install and activate the device. Other reviewers were pleased with customer support and troubleshooting.

Bay Alarm Medical review

Medical Alert is our top pick as the “Easiest to Use” medical alert system, due to its clear, easy setup instructions, its all-in-one technology, and its push-button system. Medical Alert keeps its product line and devices simple, offering a mobile system and a home system. The home system has a landline option or a cellular version, which offers the same benefits, and a waterproof wearable device. Medical Alert’s mobile system device can be worn like a necklace and includes a built-in help button, GPS location tracking, and two-way communication. The mobile system has an impressive five-day battery life, while the backup battery for the home system is 30 hours. You can add fall detection to your Medical Alert device for $10 a month.

According to our August 2024 survey, Medical Alert users reported the highest level of satisfaction with their device’s ease-of-use (77.42%). One surveyed user said: “I love my Medical Alert because it has helped me in a very substantial way. Now I am not so helpless in certain situations, making my quality of life go up. It has also given me and my family peace of mind about my personal safety and has made me wish I had gotten this product earlier in life.”

Setting up and using the Medical Alert devices is easy. We could open the packages with just one hand and found clear, thorough instructions with lots of visual cues. The home devices are simple to plug in, and you can follow the prompts to pair the device with fall detection. Medical Alert also offers backup instructions in case you miss the prompts.

Our experience with Medical Alert customer service varied. The representative who helped us purchase our medical alert system was friendly and helpful. They even gave us their direct extension if we had any other questions. A different customer service representative called us to clarify something with our account, but we were busy and unable to take the call. We told the representative this and asked if they could call us back later, but they immediately hung up on us.

Medical Alert is not accredited by the Better Business Bureau (BBB), but its parent company, Connect America, has an A+ BBB rating and 1.25 out of 5 stars based on 20 customer reviews.

“I love this product. I’m at home alone quite a bit and have a spinal cord injury. I feel more confident knowing that if something happens, help is only a button away.”

On Trustpilot, Medical Alert has 2.8 out of 5 stars, based on three customer reviews.Many of the customer complaints from BBB and Trustpilot express frustration around returning the medical alert system equipment to cancel their service.

Medical Alert full review

ADT’s medical alert system stands out for its free Premium Protection Plan, which covers all of its devices for as long as you stay an active customer. The Premium Protection Plan warranty states ADT will replace and cover 100% of the costs for device replacement in a wide range of cases, including damage from normal wear and tear, power surges, manufacturing defects, and any type of battery replacement.

Additionally, users can get free shipping and discounts on monitoring by choosing to pay quarterly or annually. We also appreciated ADT’s simplicity in setting up and using their devices, and the brand’s three distinctive options when choosing the right system for your needs.

One user from our August 2024 survey reported, “Overall, I think I made a good choice by getting this. I think it makes me calmer, knowing that I have it as a backup to calling 911. Having the medical alert system is easier and more reliable than having to call 911. They get to know me and know if I fall. However, I’m only 47, and the look is not for me.”

Arriving with simple packaging and unboxing the ADT devices is easy. The system’s installation is fast, and our testers were impressed with how effortless it was to connect with the emergency center. The full process of setting up and connecting the ADT devices took only minutes.

ADT offers customer service via a live chat on their website or by phone at 800-238-2727. When we spoke with customer support, we found them well-informed and helpful.

ADT Security Services has an A+ rating on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and a poor rating on Trustpilot, but ADT doesn’t have a specific BBB associated with its medical alert systems. Unfortunately, most customer reviews on both sites relate to ADT Security Services, and it’s difficult to find any reviews for ADT medical alerts.

“If I didn’t have my medical alert during the emergencies, I don’t know what would’ve happened. The ADT Health customer service is amazing. They’ve made my life so much easier.”

ADT full review

LifeFone’s medical alert systems are full of features for those who enjoy added technology. But we found the VIPx mobile device’s 10-day battery life to be one of its most impressive qualities, earning it our rating of “Longest Battery Life.”

LifeFone also offers a range of devices and plans, so you can choose wearable, on-the-go devices, or at-home systems to find the option that best suits your needs. Lastly, we appreciated the easy setup and testing process when we used LifeFone’s devices.

A large percentage of LifeFone users in our August 2024 survey reported spending $41-$50 per month and were among those most likely to say their medical alert was worth the price. One of the users we surveyed said: “My LifeFone device gives me peace of mind knowing that, in case of an emergency, I can get help no matter where I’m at. I feel this was a wise decision, and I plan to continue using it.”

Setting up LifeFone’s medical alert systems was straightforward. The At-Home Cellular base station was up and running in under 10 minutes. The At-Home & On-the-Go VIPx mobile device took a bit longer, at around 30 minutes, to fully activate. We encountered no issues during the initial setup. However, enabling fall detection required an additional 30 minutes on top of the base activation time. Overall, the installation process was smooth and we appreciated LifeFone’s clear instructions for getting both the home and mobile systems online rapidly.

The LifeFone customer service phone number was listed throughout our user guide and activation instructions, so we never had to search for the number when we had questions while setting up our medical alert systems. The representatives were knowledgeable and able to answer our questions during our calls. Only one instance involved multiple calls to resolve an issue—we didn’t receive an email code right away to set up the caregiver app.

LifeFone has an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars on Trustpilot. Customers on Trustpilot and BBB note the company’s fast response time, ease of setup, and feelings of reassurance they felt when using LifeFone. Some customers noted frustrations when dealing with LifeFone’s customer service team, as they were unable to resolve their issues.

“Now I really feel comfortable and safe leaving my house knowing I can get medical help in any emergency at any time and anywhere.”

Kanega Watch fall detection is based on actual falls from wearers, and it is the only smartwatch that offers personalized fall detection based on users’ real falls. That makes Unaliwear the clear winner of “Best for Wrist-Based Fall Detection.”

This unique feature makes it more difficult to test fall detection accuracy—our testers had to call customer service to increase our watch’s fall detection sensitivity. After increasing the sensitivity, we were pleased with the watch’s performance: It detected most of our test falls.

The biggest drawback is the high equipment fees ($299) and monthly cost ($79.95). There is also no caregiver app to monitor the wearer’s location, watch battery status, or other health information.

One user from our August 2024 survey stated: “I can be more independent, and my family is comfortable leaving me to go to work or school.”’

“The watch does arrive ‘plug and play’ and there is no need to do set up with our customer success team. When someone completes a Kanega Watch purchase online, they are sent to our pre-shipment set up form. It takes them about 5 mins to fill this out and then we do all the set up so when the watch arrives it works out of the box. The tester may have had a Welcome Call with one of our reps, but that is not for set up that is just a courtesy to make sure they know we are here to help them in necessary.”

– From an UnaliWear team member

UnaliWear encourages users to call customer service for any questions, troubleshooting, or changes that need to be made to the watch. We reached a representative in less than a minute every time we called customer service, and each representative was friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable.

UnaliWear has 4.33 out of 5 stars on BBB based on more than 80 reviews. Most positive reviews mentioned how easy it is to charge the batteries, the company’s excellent customer service, and the quick emergency response. Many reviewers also emphasized their peace of mind when using the Kanega Watch and how it looks like a chic piece of jewelry. A few negative reviews stated the material is cheap and breaks easily, while others weren’t happy with the $75 restocking fee when returning the watch.

“Without it, I wouldn’t be able to go out to work.”

The company has 4 out of 5 stars on Trustpilot, but only three reviews. All of the reviewers wrote about how happy they were with the brand’s quick response after a fall.

With so many medical alert systems available, our Reviews Team wanted to refine and shorten our top recommendations to help you find the right one for you or your care recipient. We chose the above brands based on our testing experience as well as various price ranges, features, and device options.

GetSafe and Aloe Care Health are not our top picks, but we wanted to mention them here. Both have unique features that may be right for you or your care recipient.

GetSafe is a medical alert system you don’t have to wear. Instead, you place voice-activated and standard wall buttons that are connected to the base station throughout your home. You contact the monitoring center with your voice (say “Call 911” twice), pressing the wall button, or pulling the cord. GetSafe also gives users the option to contact caregivers directly prior to calling 911.

GetSafe may be a good option for users who don’t always remember to wear their medical alert system or find the devices uncomfortable. Packages are grouped by the size of your home; they range from one bedroom to four to five bedrooms.

GetSafe drawbacks:

GetSafe full review

Aloe Care Health is an excellent choice for caregivers who want to closely monitor their care recipient. The base station, called the Smart Hub, includes a motion sensor as well as air quality and temperature monitoring. Caregivers can use the motion sensor to track the user’s daily activity and they’ll receive activity notifications through the caregiver app.

One of our favorite Smart Hub features is two-way calling. The user can make and receive hands-free calls to designated caregivers directly from the base station. Users can also contact the monitoring center with their voice if they’re within range of the Smart Hub by saying “Emergency” two to four times.

Aloe Care Health drawbacks:

Aloe Care Health full review

Even though Life Alert is a household name, it is our last choice for other brands to consider for a medical alert system. In our Life Alert Review, we detailed the many drawbacks discovered by our research team, leading us to conclude that we do not recommend this brand.

We’re most concerned about the Life Alert cost and contract terms. This company requires customers to enter into a three-year contract and charges users a penalty fee for canceling their service before the three years are up. The only exceptions to this are in the case that the user passes away or moves into a nursing home facility. Life Alert lacks transparency in its pricing, only disclosing monthly fees after users sit through a sales call that requires them to disclose personal details and medical information. We found the pricing to be higher than the industry standard, ranging from $49.95 to 98.95 a month along with an activation fee of $197. Life Alert does not offer fall detection to its users.

A medical alert system is a device that connects to a 24/7 monitoring center with the press of a button. Monitoring center staff can dispatch emergency services, care recipients, or both to the user’s location.

Medical alert systems can foster a sense of security and independence for older adults, those with health conditions, or anyone living alone who may require immediate assistance. [2]Stokke, Randi. The Personal Emergency Response System as a Technology Innovation in Primary Health Care Services: An Integrative Review. JMIR. July 2016. Found on the internet at https://www.jmir.org/2016/7/e187/

“Medical alert services can help reduce the risk of living alone—increasing independence for older adults and providing peace of mind for their caregivers,” said Liron Sinvani, MD, director of the geriatric hospitalist service at Northwell Health in the New York City area. “In the event of a fall or medical situation, an alert system makes help available at the push of an emergency button.”

Christopher Norman, a geriatric nurse practitioner based in New York state, urged us to remember that calling for help instantaneously and the time it takes for help to actually arrive are very different things, and they can vary depending on location.

“Urban versus rural locations are going to have different response times, and connectivity may be an issue in rural settings,” said Norman. “People should have appropriate expectations going into buying any medical alert device. They can be incredibly useful, but they’re not magic.”

Before making a purchase, you may be interested in how medical alert systems work. A medical alert system connects to a 24/7 monitoring center when activated. Depending on the medical alert device, your device may use a button, fall detection sensors, or voice commands to connect to the monitoring center. The monitoring center staff speaks with you through your medical alert device, and someone from the center greets you, usually by name. You then speak to them through the wearable device or the home base station.

When working with your contact at the monitoring center, you don’t have to explain who or where you are — all that’s on file. Depending on the situation, they will call one of your emergency contacts for assistance or 911. In some cases, the staff at the monitoring center will stay on the line with you until help arrives. If you contact them accidentally, you can explain that it’s a false alarm. If you can’t speak after activating the system, the monitors will assume it’s an emergency and call 911.

Not all medical alert systems have the same connection type—some only connect to landlines, while others use Wi-Fi or cellular connections (such as AT&T or Verizon cellular, which is the same technology your smartphone uses). On-the-go systems, for instance, connect via a cellular network, meaning you’re able to contact the monitoring center anywhere cellular service coverage is available.

A monitored medical alert system offers notable benefits compared to just relying on a call made to 911. Owning a medical alert system can mean a quicker response time when faced with an emergency, around-the-clock monitoring from a dedicated center, location tracking, and most importantly, peace of mind that help will still be available when a caregiver is not around.

The monitoring center already has your information on file, so they know your name and address, along with your emergency contacts, while 911 will ask you to be cognizant enough to tell them these details. Monitors can also tell first respondents your lockbox code so they don’t have to break down your door. And, while some jurisdictions impose fines for false alarms that are called into 911, monitoring centers never fine you for false alarms and can also reach out to emergency contacts for you in non-emergent cases, such as locking your keys or phone in your car.

You don’t need to be an AT&T or Verizon customer to purchase a medical alert system with cellular service— you just need to live within range of the provider’s network. Both cellular networks cover most of the United States, but if you want to confirm you’re in-network, check out the Verizon Coverage Map and AT&T Coverage Map.

There’s no “one-size-fits-all” reason to use a medical alert system. Caregivers and care recipients may choose to purchase a medical alert system for a number of reasons. For example, several members of our focus group decided to get one after they fell and weren’t able to get help right away. Our August 2024 survey respondents stated their primary motivation for purchasing a medical alert system was experiencing an emergency and regretting not having a help button, followed by mobility issues or physical disabilities and cognitive decline.

“I was always saying, I’m not gonna fall. I’m not gonna fall. But then I had two bad falls and I was scared because I live alone. The first one I was going outside in my backyard and it is all fenced in so nobody could come help me. I fell on the concrete and fractured my toe, and it was really bad and I really had to push myself to get up. And the second one I fell coming in, bringing the mail and my shoe got stuck with the door and I fell forward. And again, it was terrible. So then I decided I was going to use one of the alerts. I feel confident that it’s something that could help me.” – Focus group participant

“I fell outside while working on my flowers and I had trouble getting up. My husband was in the house, but he couldn’t hear me and he never thought about that. I finally got over to a chair and got up. And so the next day I ordered my alert system.” – Focus group participant

Developing a chronic disease, injury, or recent medical condition that affects your mobility and overall health may be another reason to consider 24/7 medical alert monitoring.

“I got my first medical alert system about seven years ago after I had just been diagnosed with two compression fractures as a result of osteoporosis,” said one member of our focus group. “And I live alone. Once I had that diagnosis, I had no reluctance whatsoever to go ahead and get a medical alert.”

Adults age 60 and older are disproportionately affected by chronic conditions, such as diabetes, arthritis, and heart disease. Nearly 95% have at least one chronic condition, and nearly 80% have two or more.

National Council on Aging. Chronic Inequities: Measuring Disease Cost Burden Among Older Adults in the U.S. A Health and Retirement Study Analysis. Page 5, Figure 2. April 2022. Found on the internet at https://ncoa.org/article/the-inequities-in-the-cost-of-chronic-disease-why-it-matters-for-older-adultsA medical alert system with fall detection is a good match for anyone with a condition that increases their risk of falling, like Parkinson’s disease, epilepsy, diabetes, COPD, and impaired vision or hearing, said Sinvani. A fall detection necklace has a built-in sensor that detects downward motion. It automatically contacts the monitoring center if it detects a fall, even if the user didn’t press the help button. For those with a known heart condition, some medical alert devices —like the All-in-One from Bay Alarm Medical— are specifically designed for people with pacemakers or defibrillators.

People using four or more prescription medications every day should also consider a fall detection device. Research shows that taking four or more prescribed medications per day can double your risk of falling. [4]Ming, Yu and Zecevic, Aleksandra. Medications & Polypharmacy Influence on Recurrent Fallers in Community: a Systematic Review. Canadian Geriatrics Journal. March 21, 2018. Found on the internet at https://cgjonline.ca/index.php/cgj/article/view/268/381

Using a medical alert system can also benefit those living with dementia. We asked Natali N. Edmonds, a board-certified geropsychologist and founder of Dementia Careblazers, what specific features a caretaker for someone with dementia should look for in a medical alert system.

“Some people with dementia might not remember to use the medical alert device after a fall,” she said. “Having a system that automatically detects the fall can help with this possibility.”

But caregivers should be aware that a standard medical alert system often can’t stand alone in keeping a dementia patient safe, since their patient leaving home is often a concern for caregivers. As an alternative, some companies offer Bluetooth-enabled products that can be integrated with smart home devices, like window and door sensors. Companies like Tranquil have created products using technology called geofencing, which creates virtual boundaries for users, and alerts a caregiver through their smartphone if their care recipient wanders outside of those designated zones.

A medical alert system isn’t just for medical emergencies or falls. It’s a good idea for anyone who lives alone and wants a quick, reliable way to get help. For example, if there’s a fire, or an intruder, or if you lock your phone or keys in the car, a medical alert system is a fast way to call for outside help. The monitoring center can call your emergency contacts rather than 911, depending on what is most appropriate for the situation. You can even ask the monitoring center to stay on the line as you walk home or through a parking lot if you don’t feel safe.

“I think it’s just a practical idea for anybody who lives alone. Doesn’t have to be old. It can be, uh, just anybody. That’s, that’s when you have an accident, you have an accident, that’s when you really need the help no matter what age. So, but that’s why I got mine is because I live alone and…it seemed the practical thing to do…to have it ready for if I should ever need it.” – Focus Group Participant

Note: A medical alert system should supplement in-person caregiving—not substitute it.

So, how do medical alert systems work? Learn more about at-home and on-the-go systems below.

At-home medical alert systems have a base unit that contacts trained staff at a monitoring center and a portable help button that connects to the base unit. You plug the base unit into an outlet in a central location, such as the living room or kitchen, and wear the portable help button as a medical alert necklace or wristband, or carry it in your pocket. This allows you to contact the monitoring center from a different room, and even from outside as long as you’re within range of the base station. Base units also include a battery backup in case of a power outage.

Most at-home systems are available with a landline or cellular connection.

An on-the-go system uses a mobile device with a cellular connection, enabling you to call for help when you’re away from home. Some systems also use a lightweight help button that communicates with the mobile device. You can carry the on-the-go system in your purse or on your belt while wearing the help button around your neck or wrist.

On-the-go medical alerts come in a variety of sizes and styles. Unlike at-home systems, mobile systems don’t need to stay plugged in. They have rechargeable batteries and include a charging cradle that plugs into an outlet. The majority of our survey respondents preferred wristband devices over lanyard devices.

Many mobile systems are about the size of a pager and can be worn as a necklace or clipped to your pocket or purse. Many brands, like Medical Guardian and Bay Alarm Medical, now offer medical alert smartwatches as an on-the-go option.

According to our August 2024 survey of 1,200 medical alert users and caregivers, battery life, fall detection, GPS tracking, in-home range, and caregiver features were the top five features considered during the buying process.

Let’s look more at common medical alert system features.

Research from 2021 and 2023 shows that fall detection devices are more accurate when worn around the neck than on the wrist. Remember this when considering wrist-based fall detection devices like the Kanega Watch or Bay Alarm Medical SOS Smartwatch. In the event of a false fall detection alarm, the company will verify whether you need assistance. [5]Javier González-Cañete, Francisco and Casilari, Eduardo. A Feasibility Study of the Use of Smartwatches in Wearable Fall Detection Systems. Sensors. March 23, 2021. Found on the internet at https://www.mdpi.com/1424-8220/21/6/2254 [6]Lee, Yongkuk, et al. Experimental Study: Deep Learning-Based Fall Monitoring among Older Adults with Skin-Wearable Electronics. Sensors. March 2023. Found on the internet at https://www.mdpi.com/1424-8220/23/8/3983

If fall detection is a feature you’re interested in, see our best medical alert systems with fall detection review.

According to our August 2024 survey, 71% said they have used the medical alert during an emergency.

In our Reviews Team survey of 1,000 medical alert system users, automatic fall detection was the top feature our survey respondents wanted with their medical alert system, with 60% of respondents indicating that this feature was important to them. Automatic fall detection was followed by a mobile app for caregivers and GPS location tracking, with 55% and 53% of respondents indicating this feature was important, respectively. [1]NCOA Adviser Medical Alert Systems Survey. 1,000 respondents. Conducted using Pollfish. Launched November 2021

The cost of medical alert systems, also known as personal emergency response systems (PERS), depends on a few different factors. For example, some brands charge an upfront equipment fee, while others rent the equipment to you, waiving the equipment fee.

Most of our survey respondents reported spending $31-$50 per month on a MAS, which aligns with the common prices we see. Starting monthly fees generally range from $20–$35. That doesn’t include one-time equipment fees, which can range from $50–$350, and activation fees of up to $200.

Overall, people reported a high level of satisfaction with their medical alerts, no matter what they were paying.

Some systems come with the option to add extra products or services, which can mean added costs, while others might include a few freebies.

Take a look at the four major cost categories below.

The monthly cost of your system depends on the type you choose. At-home systems tend to be the least expensive, with monthly costs running between $20–$35. On-the-go systems usually cost about $30–$40 per month, but some may cost $50 or more. Bundled systems, which include two medical alert systems, can cost $40 to more than $60 per month. Most systems also offer fall detection for an additional monthly cost (usually $10/month), which we recommend always adding.

Here are the lowest starting monthly prices of the best medical alert systems:

Connection type

Model

There are also medical alert systems with no monthly fees that don’t connect to a 24/7 monitoring center. Instead, an unmonitored medical alert system connects directly to 911 or your personal contacts during an emergency. Most don’t offer fall detection, GPS tracking, and other important caregiver features. We don’t recommend these systems.

You either rent or purchase medical alert system equipment. If you’re charged an equipment fee on top of your monthly fee, you own the equipment and don’t need to return it if you cancel your subscription. High-tech devices like medical alert smartwatches, mobile systems, and smart tablets often have an equipment fee.

Most at-home systems are rentals and don’t include an equipment fee. Unlike purchased devices, you must return rental equipment when you cancel your subscription.

Optional features are a great way to customize your medical alert system to your care recipient’s or your needs. Some popular add-on features include:

If using medication reminders with your medical alert system, keep your reminders updated. “Updates at least every month, after every health care provider encounter, and after every hospitalization are highly recommended,” said Norman.

Hidden fees may include additional activation, initiation, processing, and membership fees. Most top brands will not add in these fees, but it’s best to confirm with a customer service representative when shopping around.

When reviewing medical alert systems, examine the warranty details carefully. Warranties on top systems usually cover replacing worn or damaged equipment with certain exclusions. For example, Bay Alarm Medical provides an optional protection plan for an added fee for a one-time replacement of the base station or device, plus discounts on lost or damaged accessories. Look for a warranty that protects against defects and equipment failure under normal use. Also, consider supplemental protection plans if available, as they can offset costs from damage or loss not covered under the standard warranty. Understanding the warranty and protection options will help you select a medical alert system that provides appropriate coverage.

Unfortunately, Traditional Medicare (Part A and Part B) doesn’t cover medical alert systems, and private health insurance rarely does. Here are some potential ways to save money. [7]Medicare.gov. What Part A Covers Found on the internet at https://www.medicare.gov/what-medicare-covers/what-part-a-covers [8]Medicare.gov. What Part B Covers. Found on the internet at https://www.medicare.gov/what-medicare-covers/what-part-b-covers

“There are a number of organizations, such as the AARP and other not-for-profit area agencies on aging—in Florida, we have the Alliance for Aging, for example—which provide discounts on medical alert systems, and in some cases, the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs or Tricare may cover a medical alert system at no cost,” said Jeremy Radziewicz, MAcc, chief financial officer at Community Health of South Florida, Inc.

If you’re living on a low to moderate income, you may be eligible for money-saving benefits programs to help you pay for daily expenses. Visit NCOA’s BenefitsCheckUp® to learn more.

The best medical alert system for you will depend on your situation and lifestyle. Thinking about your budget and the factors that are most important to you in a device can help you narrow down the options.

These factors will be different for each shopper, but the majority of our survey respondents agreed that fast response time is the most important quality in a medical alert system. This was followed by the system being easy to set up and use, with price ranking as the third most important consideration. [1]NCOA Adviser Medical Alert Systems Survey. 1,000 respondents. Conducted using Pollfish. Launched November 2021

Medical Guardian, MobileHelp, Medical Alert, and ADT users were among those most satisfied with both the look and comfort level of the wearable devices.

As a starting point, refer back to Table 1 to compare the features and costs of the top medical alert brands. Then use the following tips as a guide when researching the best medical alert systems:

If you’re a caregiver shopping for a medical alert system, it may be difficult to talk about medical alert systems with your care recipient, especially if they aren’t receptive at first. We asked Sean Marchese, a registered nurse in Orlando, Florida, with more than 20 years of patient care experience, how to navigate this conversation.

“Understanding someone’s main concerns for not using a medical alert device is the best way to learn why they’re hesitant,” said Marchese. “Consider discussing the topic with a health care provider present who can also answer questions and assuage worries.”

Even if you’ve narrowed down your choices to two or three medical alert system companies, you still have multiple models and features to choose from.

Keep the following considerations in mind to help you narrow down your choices.

Considerations

When your new medical alert system arrives, there are a few things to know before getting started. Based on our research, and the feedback from our focus group, here are a few things to keep in mind:

“Mine has a feature that, when it’s not charged, they call my children. So what I do now, I have the charging next to my bird. So when I cover him at night, I remember to charge the device. And when I uncover him in the morning, I just take it out of the charger. This way I don’t forget.” – Focus group participant

“Mine came with the instruction to test it every 15 days. So, I don’t let the thing just sit there and don’t use it at all. I’ll press the button and someone will come on right away. That’s a good feature, to let me know that someone’s always there. They get back to me in seconds.” – Focus group participant

Medical alert systems are not one-size-fits-all devices. Older adults and caregivers have different needs, preferences, lifestyles, and budgets, so the right medical alert system will vary for each person.

Medical Guardian earned our title of “Best Overall” for its impressive at-home and on-the-go systems. Its at-home systems have some of the industry’s farthest ranges, and there are three discreet mobile system options available: a necklace, bracelet, and smartwatch. MobileHelp stands out by offering high-quality systems at low costs, making it a great value.

Bay Alarm Medical offers a range of high-quality systems, giving you a variety of options. Medical Alert may be the best option for those seeking a straightforward, easy-to-use system. Additionally, installation is effortless, allowing users to set up and begin using their devices quickly. ADT offers 24/7 monitoring, straightforward pricing, and a free, comprehensive warranty.

If you’re shopping for a medical alert system for your care recipient, involve them in the selection process as much as possible. Ask your care recipient what styles and features they prefer. You can also frame the trial period as a chance for them to try the device and give you feedback before deciding on a brand. Help them feel empowered by deciding on the right medical alert system together.

Wearable medical alert devices typically use cellular service and GPS technology to keep you connected to an emergency call center at all times. Some wearable medical alert devices offer fall detection at an additional monthly cost. Learn more about the best medical alert necklaces, medical alert bracelets, and medical alert watches we recommend.

The best medical alert systems include Medical Guardian, MobileHelp, Bay Alarm Medical, Medical Alert, and other companies mentioned in this guide. But ultimately medical alert systems are not one-size-fits-all, and you should find the best medical alert system for your needs by considering things like your budget, what type of device connection you need, and battery life.

Yes, medical alert systems are certainly worth it. They serve a wide variety of purposes, from immediately responding to calls for help in life-threatening situations to giving older adults the confidence to leave home in order to remain active and social. Medical alert devices can also provide peace of mind for caregivers and supplement health services for aging family members. Medical alert systems, or PERS, are a solid layer of protection for people who live with chronic diseases, are at a greater risk of falling, or live alone.

It depends on the type of insurance you have. Most private insurance or Affordable Care Act plans will not cover the cost, and those that do require a doctor’s signature. Your best chance for insurance coverage is if you have long-term care insurance or use Medicaid. In both cases, plans vary according to state. Call your provider to learn more.

Original Medicare, otherwise known as Medicare Part A and Part B, does not cover the cost of the top medical alert systems. Medicare Advantage, also referred to as Medicare Part C, might cover part of the system’s cost. [3]Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Percent of U.S. Adults 55 and Over with Chronic Conditions. Found on the internet at https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/health_policy/adult_chronic_conditions.htm The plans differ in each state, so if you use Medicare Advantage, call your plan provider to check for coverage. For more information on how to maximize your Medicare benefits, see the in-depth Medicare Guidance on NCOA’s Age Well Planner.

The AARP recommends that older adults use a medical alert system. While the organization doesn’t promote a specific brand, it does provide a discount on Lifeline medical alert systems for AARP members. Learn more about AARP recommended medical alert systems.

Life Alert systems offer less technology and a shorter range, but a higher price tag, than many other medical systems on the market. For these reasons, we do not find Life Alert to be a good value.

Medical Guardian, MobileHelp, Bay Alarm Medical, and Medical Alert are better than Life Alert. They offer fall detection, don’t require a contract, and have lower monthly prices than Life Alert.

We don’t recommend Life Alert because it has expensive monitoring and installation fees, requires a three-year contract, doesn’t offer fall detection, and doesn’t offer pricing information on its website. The brand has too many drawbacks compared to other top medical alert systems.

Life Alert and Medical Guardian both offer medical alert services but differ in features and pricing. Life Alert requires a three-year contract and is known for its long-standing brand, while Medical Guardian provides more modern equipment options and customizable plans and does not require long-term contracts. Compare services to find the best fit for your needs.

Yes, unmonitored medical alert systems work, but they provide limited protection. Most work by connecting with 911 or predesignated contacts in the case of an emergency. They use either a landline or connect through a cellular plan. Many of these systems are bare-bones and lack important features like fall detection and a caregiver’s app. The most important thing to remember is they do not include 24/7 monitoring coverage, but this does mean they are more affordable and don’t require a monthly fee.

While most medical alert systems have a monthly fee to cover the cost of 24/7 monitoring and emergency response services, there are alternatives. Some companies may offer quarterly or annual payment plans, which could result in overall savings. A few models on the market don’t require a monthly fee, but these typically do not include professional monitoring services. Instead, they function as personal alarms that notify pre-selected contacts or 911 in the event of an emergency. If this type of system interests you, learn more about the best medical alert systems with no monthly fee.

No, most medical alert systems do not require Wi-Fi, but some specialized at-home systems do.

Activity tracking is an optional feature available on some medical alert systems. It uses motion sensors and software to monitor your daily movements and activity levels. Common measurements include:

Activity tracking can provide insight into your physical health and mobility. However, it is not essential for the core function of a medical alert device – contacting help in an emergency.

An appropriate range for an in-home system should be based on the size of your home and property. The home-based systems we tested featured ranges from 300 to 1,400 feet to accommodate different needs. If you have a larger home, Medical Guardian or MobileHelp are good options.

Medical alert systems can be a useful way to provide care for someone with memory loss. They can alert you in the event of an emergency, and some medical alert systems include reminders to take medications. On-the-go systems with location detection may also be a good option for people who may be at risk of wandering.

Yes, many medical alert systems allow you to set up emergency contact lists, including family members. When activated, these systems can notify your designated contacts, such as family, via call, text, or app notification, ensuring they are informed immediately in case of an emergency.

A landline medical alert system connects to your home phone line, offering reliable service if you have a stable landline connection. A cellular medical alert system uses a mobile network, providing more flexibility and coverage. This is especially useful if you don’t have a landline or want protection outside the home.

Have questions about this review? Email us at [email protected].