Best Medical Alert Systems of 2022

As old age comes naturally to everybody, it is important to be mentally and physically prepared to cope with all the changes that accompany growing older. The best thing you can do for yourself or for your beloved elderly is to ensure a comfortable senior living. While some may consider aging in senior care facilities, many people still opt for aging in place; in the comfort of their own home.

The key to sustaining independent living through your senior years is learning to adapt to change. Many fears stem from many popular misconceptions about living independently until old age, mostly dwelling in the event of emergencies. Rather than stressing out about it, you have to take measures to make sure that you or your loved one is protected.

Through rigorous research, our Review Team looked up medical alert systems available in the market to help seniors and their loved ones choose a life-line they can rely on when emergencies or unforeseen situations that may require immediate response occur.

We identified the top 10 medical alert systems based on the overall quality of their service, their equipment options, cost-efficiency details, monitoring center reliability, ease-of-use, and overall value to provide you a comprehensive guide of which medical alert system works best for you according to your lifestyle, preferences, and priorities.

Top 10 Medical Alert Systems in 2022

1. Medical Care Alert - Best Pick
2. LifeFone - Best in Battery Life
3. ADT - Best Monitoring Center
4. Bay Alarm Medical - Best in Price
5. Medical Guardian - Best Home-Based System
6. MobileHelp - Best Bundle Deal
7. Medical Alert - Best in Protection Plan
8. GetSafe - Best Voice-Controlled System
9. Aloe Care Health - Best for Caregivers
10. LifeStation - Best On-The-Go System

Best Pick:Medical Care Alert

Medical Care Alert Overview

One of the reasons we chose Medical Care Alert as our Best Pick for 2022 is the fact that they have properly invested in the quality of their medical alert monitoring. Their U.S-based monitoring center is UL-approved, and earned an A+ BBB rating, which ensures that their central monitoring operations adhere to safety and quality standards. What sets Medical Care Alert apart from the rest is that their emergency respondents all hold EMD/EMT certification, which proves that they are all highly trained to manage emergency situations.

Medical Care Alert service is offered by American Response Technologies, Inc, and is a Michigan-based family-owned company, which also monitors their own family members. If you are looking for the best medical alert monitoring, with the highest quality medical alert equipment, at an affordable price, you might want to consider Medical Care Alert.

Highlights

One thing truly impressive about the Medical Care Alert System is their nationwide coverage, with thousands of clients in all 50 states. In deciding for a life-saving purchase like this, many factors come to mind. Among them, functionality, affordability, and reliability. Medical Care Alert provides the best medical alert systems and monitoring in the industry, with qualified and trained operators who are available 24/7 to respond to any incidents.

The Takeaway

Medical Care Alert offers four different plans, with options for monthly, quarterly, semi-annual, or annual billing. The yearly payment comes with complimentary items, including free shipping fee and an additional one month on top of your subscription. If their services do not meet your satisfaction, you can freely cancel within the 14-day trial period. Each package is tailored to meet your needs and your lifestyle, which lets you have your money’s worth.

Their impressive battery life lasts for 3 days for their on-the-go system, which is a big deal for seniors who like to roam around and travel. Their cellular connectivity is through AT&T 4G LTE wireless network that works anywhere in all 50 states as long as the signal is accessible.

For their in-home system, the battery has a power backup capacity that can be sustained for up to 80 hours, and has a range of 1000 feet so you can be protected in all areas of your home. All their devices are water-resistant, which make it safe even for damp environments.

System plans

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Low monthly monitoring fees
• Fall detection feature is available for an additional monthly fee
• Quick response rate at 20 seconds
• Offers a 30-day trial period
• Plans are flexible and can be customized according to your specific needs

Cons

• Extra buttons cost more than what other providers charge
• One-time device cost shall be paid upon purchasing a plan

Monitoring Center

Medical Care Alert provides the best medical alert systems and monitoring in the industry, with qualified and trained operators who are available 24/7 to respond to any incidents. Their monitoring centers are UL-listed, staffed with EMT/EMD certified emergency respondents. They are on duty 24/7 on all days of the year, and have Spanish-speaking agents on each shift. Since they are U.S-based, it is an assurance in itself that they are able to provide consistency in their impressive 12-second response time.

Who Should Consider Medical Care Alert?

Medical Care Alert is best for seniors who have disabilities, have mobility issues, or those at risk of heart attack and stroke, and other serious medical conditions. They have EMT/EMD certified responders who are professionally trained health care operators who have profound understanding on dealing with medical emergencies.

Best in Battery Life:LifeFone

LifeFone Overview

Lifefone has earned its rightful place among the medical alert systems we have reviewed, ranking 2nd in our overall ratings, performing best in the category of having an extensive and powerful battery life that can last up to 30 days. This makes Lifefone way ahead of its rival alert systems in terms of battery operation duration.

Established in 1976, the company’s long experience in the market allowed them to master the consumers’ demands, therefore incorporating it to their devices to keep up with the advancements in technology over the years.

The monitoring center of Lifefone is awarded with a Five Diamond Certification by the TMA, and they are also UL-certified and FM approved, which established their monitoring center reliability and reputation.

Highlights

Lifefone has nationwide coverage, so you can be confident in knowing help is accessible at any time, anywhere. They have working emergency respondents that are ready to help 24/7 on all days of the year.

Among its highlights is its offer of a wide range of systems, with caregiver tools and extra features for a minimal top-up fee, which you can customize according to your needed preferences. Among which, the Caregiver Mobile App, Medication Reminders, Activity Assurance, Daily Check-in Call, and other optional add-on devices which include their vanity pendants, wall-mounted buttons, privacy lockbox, and spouse monitoring.

The Takeaway

Lifefone offers five different medical alert systems to choose from, depending on your unique needs. You can opt for a monthly, quarterly, semi-annual, or annual payment plan. The company offers standard shipping for all its devices which costs $11.95. As for cancellation, Lifefone customers may return it within the first 30 days with a full refund if they are unsatisfied with the system. The devices of Lifefone are 100% water-resistant, making it safe to wear in the shower, where accidents and falls are likely to happen. The system uses AT&T's 4G cellular network, and its on-the-go systems have a GPS location tracking, with a range capacity of 1400 feet from the base unit, or up to 600 feet from the mobile device.
The key takeaway for Lifefone is that it has a lot of services to offer on a vast array of systems and add-on features. Plus, its remarkable 30-day battery life that remains incontestable by other providers. You can also have the automatic fall detection upgrade for as low as $5, which is the most budget-friendly price for this feature.

System plans

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Established company based in the United States
• U.S. call center with two back-up call centers
• Superior range capacity of up to 1,400 feet
• In the industry for 46 years
• 100% Lifetime Warranty for all devices
• No activation fees
• 24/7/365 monitoring
• Optional equipment includes a wall-mounted help button, vanity pendant button, beaded lanyard and wall mounted or hanging combination lock boxes.
• Daily safety checks, activity tracking, and medication reminder service can be added for a fee.
• 30-day money-back guarantee and any prepaid amount is refunded on a prorated basis.
• Battery life lasts up to 30 days

Cons:

• Pricing plans can be difficult to understand
• Costs for optional services and add-on features can add up quickly

Monitoring Center

Lifefone’s monitoring center is 100% US-based and it operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and 365 days a year. On the grounds of reliability and reputation, the company is TMA Five Diamond Certified, UL-certified, and FM-approved. Additionally, they have been in the medical alert market since 1976, which means that time honors their expertise in the industry. They have a team of compassionate English and Spanish-speaking care agents who are trained to provide the best possible help in any situation.

Who Should Consider Lifefone?

LifeFone provides the best solution for seniors who need an emergency alert device that also provides the added peace of mind that comes with daily safety checks, medication reminders and fall detection. This works best with seniors diagnosed with medical conditions, as their services ensure that they stay on track with their maintenance medications to make sure that they are safe and healthy always.

Best Monitoring Center:ADT

ADT Overview

ADT is among the most reputable medical alert system providers for business and residential customers in the U.S. Known for being the largest residential security company, ADT staffs nine emergency monitoring centers across 200 locations and with around 17,000 employees, which makes them deserving to be recognized as having the best monitoring center.

What sets them apart from other providers is their long history of experience in the industry and their dedication to customer satisfaction. Safety-wise, ADT also provides fire protection, home security, and automation services. On top of that, their home security systems are some of the most comprehensive on the market.

ADT’s monitoring centers are TMA Five Diamond Certified, and are located in strategic places across the U.S in a redundant network, which means that when one monitoring loses function, a backup center will take over so that they can still respond to emergency situations.

Highlights

ADT particularly stands out in being an exceptional medical alert system that provides peace of mind with essential protection to its customers 24/7. Their monitoring centers are staffed with thousands of highly-trained operators who are there to assist in any emergencies.

Considering the wide array of features in their systems, their rates are within the means of practicality. On top of these, they also hold the record of having the fastest response time, capped at just 10 seconds, which provides its customers the benefit of being able to rest easy knowing that they are quick to respond if ever they need help

The Takeaway

ADT offers a range of systems to choose from, which are all thorough yet comprehensive, ranging from its Medical Alert Basic System, Medical Alert Plus System, and On-the-go system. The connectivity options are either through landline or cellular network. If you opt for an additional help button, ADT will charge you a one-time payment of $14.99 and another $5 a month on top of the basic plan cost, which is a fair price compared to how other providers price their add-on features. Another attractive deal is their free shipping offer, which is a relatively helpful markdown on the overall budget of its customers. All their devices are 100% water-resistant, and GPS location tracking is available for their Medical Alert Plus System and their On-the-go system. The best deal of ADT lies in the reliable protection that they have to offer with features that include intrusion detection, fire and flood monitoring, voice control automated, remote access mobile app, smart home automation, and video security.

System plans

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• No long-term contracts
• Exceptional monitoring center reliability
• Lifetime warranty on all systems
• Lifetime price-lock
• 6-month money-back guarantee
• Free shipping fee and activation
• No hidden fees
• 24/7/365 monitoring

Cons:

• Limited range capacity from the base unit to the help button
• No companion or caregiver app
• Limited features

Monitoring Center

We give ADT due recognition for its monitoring centers that are 100% US-based and are staffed by thousands of professionals in its call centers across the U.S. Their monitoring centers are TMA Five Diamond Certified, UL Certified and FM Approved which means they adhere to the highest standards in the industry. Their emergency monitoring agents can respond to an alert as quickly as 10 seconds, which is the fastest recorded response time for a medical alert system. Moreover, all of their monitoring centers operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and 365 days a year.

Who Should Consider ADT?

As evaluated, the medical alert system features that ADT offer are limited, as compared to other medical alert system providers. ADT works best for independent seniors who are most preferably not diagnosed with high-risk medical conditions and who want reassurance through having a basic-level protection and monitoring.

Best in Price:Bay Alarm Medical

Bay Alarm Medical Overview

Bay Alarm is a local, family-owned business dedicated to providing the best service at an affordable price with their innovative solutions. Being in the market for 75 years, they have refined their systems to deliver quality protection to its customers. They focus on their timely service, quality workmanship, and customer support that goes beyond expectations.Their company qualities have a massive impact on their outstanding performance in the industry.

We specifically recommend Bay Alarm because of its affordable and flexible rates and payment plans, which is the main reason why it ranked 4th on our ratings and recognized for having the best price among the companies we have reviewed.

Highlights

Bay Alarm is one of the most affordable medical alert service providers in the market for all of its systems. Bay Alarm Medical partners with a U.S.-based monitoring company with call centers that are UL-listed and CSAA Five Diamond Certified. This proves its reliability when it comes to responding to medical emergencies. Another highlight is Bay Alarm’s ability to support up to 170 languages, which proves best for non-native English speakers.

The Takeaway

Bay Alarm offers five systems in total, which are explained comprehensively in their official website. They have the In-Home Basic, In-Home Preferred, In-Home Premium, Mobile GPS Help Button, and SOS Smartwatch. Connectivity options vary between landline or cellular connection.

All their devices are 100% water-resistant, and GPS location tracking is available for their on-the-go systems. Bay Alarm's In-Home Basic plan has the lowest monitoring fee that can be purchased for a starting rate of $19.95. This pricing is incredibly lower than what other providers charge which makes them the most affordable in our evaluation.

Another key feature is the caregiver tracking portal that can be set up with geofencing, which automatically sends notifications via text or email if the user leaves a designated area. For just $5 monthly top-up fee, you can directly access this caregiving tracking portal. Auto-fall detection is also compatible with all of the systems of Bay Alarm, for an additional standard $10 charge

System plans

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Flexible payment terms
• 30-day trial
• No hidden fees
• Flexible customization options
• Committed to excellence and experience
• Caregiver app with geofencing
• 24/7/365 monitoring

Cons:

• One-time purchase fees of $99 and $179 for the mobile GPS help button and smartwatch, respectively

Monitoring Center

Their headquarters is located in Concord, California and their state-of-the-art monitoring centers are located in Utah and Idaho. The average response time is capped at 20 seconds, which is within the standards of a reliable medical alert system.

Their monitoring centers are CSAA Five Diamond Certified which means they have met the strictest guidelines in the industry as this certification is only given to monitoring companies that have passed a series of comprehensive audits.

They have highly experienced and trained emergency response operators who can support up to 170 languages to cater to the non-native English population in the U.S

Who Should Consider Bay Alarm Medical?

Bay Alarm Medical is not only best suited for seniors, but also to children and teenagers. The Bay Alarm SOS Smartwatch and SOS Mobile have GPS location tracking to easily monitor their whereabouts and ensure their safety. Plus, the smartwatch has an SOS button which they can use in case of an emergency.

Bay Alarm Medical's emergency response services are also perfect for the elderly or those family members who have a disability to give you peace of mind knowing that someone will always be there to help them in case of an emergency.

Best Home-Based System:Medical Guardian

Medical Guardian Overview

Founded in 2005, Medical Guardian offers coverage across all 50 states for in-home, on-the-go, and smartwatch medical alert systems, along with a mini GPS-enabled wearable device. It offers 24/7 U.S-based monitoring with a large selection of optional features and customizable device packages that suits your lifestyle.

We specifically recommend Medical Guardian for its Home-based features after receiving the highest ratings for this category. The company's systems are user-friendly, reliable, and has a wide range of coverage.

Highlights

Medical Guardian is best for its In-Home system because of its impressive home range of 1400 feet from the main console, so you may be confident that you are safe inside your home and even in the nearby areas outside.

It also works well for anyone who has various needs and would like to customize their packages according to what works best and what features they can make the most out of. The company’s optional features gives you freedom to tailor your plan depending on your priorities and preferences, for a minimal top-up fee for these extras.

The Takeaway

Medical Guardian isn’t short on products, with five to choose from: Classic Guardian (landline), Home 2.0, Mobile 2.0, Mini Guardian, and Active Guardian.

All their devices are 100% water-resistant, and GPS location tracking is available for their on-the-go systems. The company doesn’t require long-term contracts and doesn’t charge activation fees. However, you will pay shipping fees unless you opt for an annual payment plan, which is slightly discounted and has complimentary items.

The Monitoring Centers are staffed with operators who are available 24/7 to assist with emergencies at just one press of the help button. The response time is quite fast, as it is timed for an average of 20 seconds, which is within the standard of a reliable alert system.

System plans

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Fall detection
• GPS capabilities
• 24/7 monitoring
• U.S.-based monitoring
• Flexible customization options
• Wide in-home range capacity

Cons:

• Spouse monitoring is not available on all devices
• Upfront costs and fees on the higher end
• Limited add-ons

Monitoring Center

Medical Guardian has a U.S-based monitoring center based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Composed of a team of professionals who are on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year, you are sure to get the help you need in case of an emergency.

Since they are based in the U.S, they provide services to their customers no matter where they are in the country at a quick response time of 20 seconds on average. Their State-Of-The-Art Facility is equipped with the latest in technology and security, as proved on their TMA Five-Diamond Certification. The center is also Factory Mutual Approved and certified by the Underwriters’ Laboratory.

Who Should Consider Medical Guardian?

Seniors who want to retain independence and are most likely to stay inside their homes might want to subscribe to Medical Guardian, as it provides options suited for less active seniors. Those who are prone to falls or other injuries may also want to consider this service provider, as all of its devices can be upgraded to have an extra layer of protection from falls through installing a fall detection.

Best Bundle Deal:MobileHelp

MobileHelp Overview

If you're like most people, you probably think of MobileHelp as just another one of those medical alert systems that seniors use. But what if I told you that MobileHelp is so much more? In fact, it's actually one of the best deals on the market when it comes to emergency medical alerts.

Not only do they offer a bundle deal that you won't find anywhere else, but their devices are also some of the most advanced on the market. And, if you're not a senior, don't worry - their products are perfect for anyone who wants to be prepared for an emergency.

For over 15 years, MobileHelp has been providing innovative solutions for people who want to feel at ease in case of an emergency. From their very first product, the Classic Help medical alert system, to their latest release, the Duo, they have always been at the forefront of the industry.

Highlights

MobileHelp got the highest rating on their home-based features as they provide systems that are affordable and with a wide range of protection. Some of their plans also include a tablet base station that is unique to the company.

The best part about MobileHelp is their customer service which has consistently received high praise. They offer a US-based call center that is available 24/7 and their agents are highly trained to handle any type of emergency. All thanks to their partner, Rapid Response Monitoring Services.

The Takeaway

Mobile Help offers systems with monitoring fees ranging from $19.95 to $54.95 a month. Their home-based systems are available in a wide range of protection, from 600ft to 1400ft. Plus, the devices carry a backup battery that can last up to 30 hours so you can be sure that you are protected even in the event of a power outage.

One of their most popular plans is the Mobile Duo which offers two mobile units and two help buttons for only $41.95 a month. This bundle offers two devices for a price of 1, making it one of the best deals in the market.

In addition, the company offers automatic fall detection on all of its system plans for an additional cost of $10 a month. Plus, the tablet-like base station available on their home-based and on-the-go system plans, comes with a variety of features such as a gallery of pictures, medication reminders, and built-in cognitive games.

If you're looking for an affordable and reliable way to protect yourself or your loved ones, MobileHelp is definitely a company you should consider. With their innovative products and comprehensive medical alert systems, they are sure to give you the peace of mind you need in case of an emergency.

System plans

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Affordable monthly monitoring fees
• Home-based systems can be connected through landline or cellular
• No long-term contract required
• Backed by Rapid Response Monitoring Services
• Offers tablet-like base station

Cons:

• The fall detection feature is an additional cost
• Doesn’t offer a smartwatch option
• Their monitoring center is not company-owned

Monitoring Center

MobileHelp offers its customers professional monitoring services in partnership with Rapid Response Monitoring. All of MobileHelp's systems are connected to Rapid Response's UL-listed, CSAA awardee response centers that are staffed by highly trained and experienced emergency response operators. These operators can attend to an alert as fast as 21 seconds and provide the appropriate assistance to the customer, whether that is contacting a designated caregiver or emergency services. They can also accommodate non-English speaking customers who speak Spanish or other languages through LanguageLine, an interpreting service that translates more than 240 languages.

Who Should Consider MobileHelp?

MobileHelp's systems are ideal for seniors or any individual who lives alone and wants to maintain their independence but may need some assistance in the event of an emergency. With their wide range of protection and comprehensive features, MobileHelp can provide the peace of mind you need knowing that you or your loved ones will be safe in case of an accident or emergency.

Best in Protection Plan:Medical Alert

Medical Alert Overview

Medical Alert is a US-based service provider that has been providing emergency medical alert monitoring services to thousands of senior citizens nationwide since 2004. Their headquarters is in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and is considered as one of the pioneers in the medical alert monitoring industry.

This company is owned by Connect America, which is a US government-approved provider of medical alert technology in over 30 states. Connect America has 15 field service and support locations in the US and all of them are members of the Medical Alert Monitoring Association (MAMA).

Medical Alert is a great choice for those who are looking for reliable and high-quality medical alert systems. The company offers three system plans, all of which come with no activation fee and low-cost monthly monitoring fees that can be canceled anytime. They also offer a very affordable protection plan that covers the cost of system replacement in case of theft, loss or damage.

Highlights

In general, Medical Alert offers standard pricing and features that you would expect from any other medical alert company. However, their main selling point is their on-the-go system, which offers GPS location tracking, fall detection, and a caregiver app.

The company offers three basic systems for home and on-the-go protection, which all come with a free Lockbox. This freebie helps the first responders get into your home in case of an emergency when you can't open the door yourself and prevent any damage to your property as a result of forced entry. What's good about this promotion is that the Lockbox usually comes as an add-on with other companies and can cost around $30.

The Takeaway

Medical Alert offers plans and prices that are on par with other medical alert system companies. Their most basic plan includes a landline-connected base unit and a help button that can be worn as a necklace or wristband that costs only $22.95 a month.

The system's base unit is very user-friendly, with large buttons and an easy-to-read display. The base unit also has a two-way speakerphone, so you can easily communicate with the monitoring center in an emergency.

Medical Alert offers a variety of wearable devices to choose from. All of the devices are water-resistant and have long battery life. The devices also come with a variety of features, such as GPS location tracking and automatic fall detection that can be added to your plan for an additional $10 a month. Lastly, they offer a protection plan for only $1 a month that covers the cost of system replacement in case of loss, theft or damage. This is significantly lower than what other companies charge for similar protection plans.

Medical Alert also offers a caregiver app called Medical Alert Connect. This is a free mobile app for subscribers and caregivers that allows you to track the location of those who have the mobile on-the-go system, as well as the status of the device. With the Medical Alert Connect app, you can also get push notifications about when the wearer has enabled the alert button, set up a testing schedule for the equipment, and check on the system's status. This can be really helpful for caregivers who want to keep track of their loved ones' whereabouts and safety.

System plans

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Affordable monitoring fees
• No long-term contracts required
• 30-day risk-free subscription with a full money-back guarantee
• Free Medical Alert Connect app
• Free Lockbox on all system plans

Cons:

• Limited range of only 800ft
• Offers standard features that other companies offer
• Charges one-time equipment fee of $49

Monitoring Center

Medical Alert's monitoring centers are all US-based and UL-listed, so users can take confidence in their nationwide coverage. With an average response time capped at 30 seconds, users can be assured that help will be dispatched quickly in the event of an emergency.

Their monitoring centers are staffed with highly-trained, multilingual operators who have undergone a rigorous selection process to ensure that they can deliver a standard emergency response procedure with ease of communication during emergencies. Operators are trained to contact the user's caregivers, loved ones, and designated persons in their emergency contact list to dispatch help as quickly as possible.

Who Should Consider Medical Alert?

Medical Alert is a great option for those who are looking for an affordable and user-friendly medical alert system. With easy-to-use equipment and a free mobile app, Medical Alert is a great choice for seniors and their caregivers who prefer traditional medical alert systems.

Best Voice-Controlled System:GetSafe

GetSafe Overview

Get Safe is part of the Bay Alarm Family of Companies that is owned by medical alarm industry veterans. They offer easy-to-understand packages with a fixed monthly subscription which means you'll be able to get more devices for your home without having to worry about the monitoring fee going up. You'll only need to pay for the equipment upfront.

The quantity of equipment required simply depends on how much coverage your house requires, which is different from the traditional way medical alert companies price their services. Their device options are also impressive, with three ways to get you help: call, press, and pull.

GetSafe offers medical alert systems that you do not have to wear. There are no lanyards or wristbands and their devices are designed to work around you and not on you. Their devices are both button and voice-activated in order to get help in different ways depending on the situation. They also offer a device with pull-cord activation for those who prefer it. You can place their help buttons in any high-risk areas of your home, such as near the stairs or in the bathroom.

Highlights

Get Safe has received high marks for its on-the-go features which can be purchased as an add-on on top of your plan for an additional cost. It was also rated highly on its monitoring center services and overall cost. Get Safe has received its lowest rating on its home-based system features as it lacks range and automatic fall detection which are available on other medical alert systems. The fall detection though can be purchased as an add-on.

The Takeaway

Get Safe's Starter plan has a one-time device cost of $79 and is suggested for 1-bedroom homes. It includes a base unit and one voice-activated wall button. The Standard plan is for 2 to 3-bedroom homes and includes a base unit, two voice-activated wall buttons, and a standard wall button. This plan has a one-time equipment fee of $179. Lastly, the Select plan is recommended for 4 to 5-bedroom homes and includes a base unit, three voice-activated wall buttons, and two standard wall buttons. This plan is the most expensive with a one-time equipment fee of $279.

As mentioned earlier, Get Safe charges a fixed monitoring fee of $24.95 a month so you'll never have to worry about the fee going up regardless of the number of equipment you add to your system. A wearable fall detection can also be purchased as an add-on for an additional monthly fee of $10.

System plans

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Provides non-wearable medical alert devices
• Low and fixed monthly monitoring fees
• Offers 30-day free trial period
• No long term contracts
• Extra buttons can be purchased on top of the devices included in their plans

Cons:

• No on-the-go system available
• Larger packages have high upfront costs
• Lacks touchscreen and smartwatch devices
• Does not offer activity tracking

Monitoring Center

The Get Safe monitoring center is located in Concord, California. They have two monitoring centers located in Utah and Idaho which work around the clock, 7 days a week, and 365 days a year. To ensure that all emergency calls are answered promptly, they strategically separated their monitoring centers and daily business activities.

Get Safe's monitoring centers are CSAA Five Diamond Certified, with both going through annual certification processes and random inspections by the UL testing facility.

The response rate of their emergency response operators is 20 seconds which is 10 seconds faster than the ideal average response time. Furthermore, their emergency response agents can support more than 170 languages because they use LanguageLine services to provide assistance for non-English speakers.

Who Should Consider Get Safe?

Get Safe is a good option for those who are looking for an affordable and customizable way to get help at home. While their system lacks some features that other systems offer, they make up for it with their low monthly monitoring fee and no-contract requirements.

Their plans and devices are perfect for those who do not want to wear a device all the time or those who want to add extra buttons around their home for convenience. Get Safe is also a good choice for those whose homes do not have a landline as their system does not require one.

Best for Caregivers:Aloe Care Health

Aloe Care Health Overview

Aloe Care Health is a top medical alert device provider, offering both in-home and mobile solutions. Its systems are reliable and easy to use, giving seniors the peace of mind they need in an emergency. Aloe Care is one of the few providers that offers a voice-activated device, which can be a lifesaver in an accident.

The company also offers a comprehensive mobile app called Aloe Care Health App which allows caregivers and family members to communicate more easily, keeping everyone on the same page. It also gives users the ability to make App-to-Hub calls which is a feature you won't find with many other medical alert providers. This app is one of the selling points of Aloe Care Health and makes it a top choice for caregivers.

Highlights

If you're looking for a top-of-the-line medical alert system, Aloe Care Health has you covered. Their voice-activated base station called the Hub, connects directly to the emergency response center, and their app keeps you connected with your loved ones and caregivers. Plus, they have a wearable mobile help button that comes with built-in GPS tracking and fall detection.

Automatic fall detection does not always come free with medical alert systems, so this is a great feature to have. And if you need extra security and protection, they also have motion sensors that you can add to different areas of your home.

However, they do charge a one-time device cost for all of their plans. So, if you're looking for a more affordable option, Aloe Care Health might not be the best fit. But, if you're willing to pay a little extra for top-of-the-line features and service, then Aloe Care Health is definitely worth considering.

The Takeaway

Aloe Care Health offers four plans: Mobile Companion, Essentials, Essentials Plus, and Total Care.

Mobile Companion is an on-the-go system that includes a 4G LTE-connected device and a wearable fall detection pendant. The system can be purchased for a monthly monitoring fee of $24.99 and a one-time equipment fee of $99.99

Essentials is a home-based system that includes the 4G LTE-connected Hub and one care button. This system can be purchased for a monthly monitoring fee of $29.99 with an upfront device cost of $99.99 as well. Essentials Plus is basically Essentials and Mobile Companion combined. This system can be purchased for $39.99 a month with an upfront device cost of $249.99.

Finally, the company's Total Care package consists of everything included in the Essentials Plus, with automatic fall detection and two motion sensors as well. This system can be used both at home and on the go for only $49.99 a month with an additional upfront equipment fee of $349.99.

All of their systems offer two-way communication, water-resistant and cellular-connected which means that you can rely on Aloe Care Health in any situation. Their base unit comes with a backup battery that can last up to 5 days in case of a power outage. So, if you live in an area with bad weather or are prone to power outages, Aloe Care Health has got you covered.

System plans

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Offers a hands-free, voice-activated system
• The caregiver app is available for free
• Systems can be used both at home and on the go
• Automatic fall detection available
• With built-in temperature and air-quality sensors
• No long-term contract required
• Sleek and modern designed devices

Cons:

• Low monthly fees but high upfront device costs
• No landline option available

Monitoring Center

At Aloe Care Health, their systems are monitored 24/7 by a professional TMA Five Diamond Certified security monitoring center. This is good news for users, as it means their response center has met the highest standards for quality. Their average response time is 30 seconds, which is the ideal time it should take for an emergency response agent to attend to an emergency call or alert.

Who Should Consider Aloe Care Health?

We highly recommend Aloe Care Health for people who want added security and protection without minding the expensive upfront device fee. If you have small children or elderly family members living with you, being able to check in on them and know that they're safe is invaluable. The company's systems also work best for elders and people with chronic medical conditions who might need immediate assistance in an emergency and want their families and caregivers to be notified right away.

Best On-the-go System:LifeStation

LifeStation Overview

For over 18 years in the industry, LifeStation has been providing a wide variety of products and services to cater to the needs of its customers. They offer both home-based and on-the-go systems, as well as a Smartwatch and a unique luxurious pendant option.

Despite ranking last on our list of top medical alert system providers, LifeStation is still a reputable company with a long list of satisfied customers. They have an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau and certification from The Monitoring Association.

Highlights

LifeStation offers standard features that are found in most home-based systems. These features include water-resistant devices, a range of 600 to 650ft, and fall detection. Their home-based system can also be connected via AT&T cellular service with no additional monthly fee.

Meanwhile, their on-the-go systems come with standard features that are comparable to other mobile alert systems on the market. The devices are waterproof and have a 5-day battery life, with GPS location tracking and fall detection. But what stands out the most on its on-the-go system is the luxury pendant they have which is perfect for fashionable users out there. In addition, some plans include communication features like Find My Loved One, which uses Amazon Alexa to help caregivers locate the user.

The medical alert system plans from LifeStation cost between $32.95 and $49.95 a month, which is more expensive than similar plans from other providers. However, LifeStation does not charge customers a cancellation fee, which is a plus. Additionally, LifeStation charges lower prices for additional features such as spouse monitoring.

The Takeaway

Medical alert systems from LifeStation are reasonably priced. With plans starting at $32.95 and no long-term obligations, they make it accessible to most individuals. Standard and Supreme are the two options for their At-Home system plans which cost a monthly monitoring fee of $32.95 and $44.95 respectively. These plans come with a base unit and a help button and use a 4G LTE cellular network for their connectivity option. The base unit comes with built-in two-way communication and a backup battery that can last up to 32 hours.

Meanwhile, their on-the-go system has three plans available: Sidekick Standard, Sidekick Supreme, and Sidekick Smart. The Sidekick Standard and Supreme include a help button with built-in two-way communication, GPS location tracking, and automatic fall detection for the Supreme plan. The devices can even last up to 5 days on a single charge.

Sidekick Smart plan's monitoring fee costs $43.95 a month with a one-time equipment fee of $99.95. The smartwatch has built-in two-way communication, GPS location tracking, and fall detection feature as well as 24/7 access to emergency help.It also has a pedometer to track step count, a heart rate monitor to support a healthy lifestyle, and a weather forecast. The device is waterproof and can last up to 5 days, so you won't have to worry about it running out of battery when you need it most. If you're searching for a more low-key medical alert system, Sidekick Smart is an excellent alternative.

Finally, the LifeStation Luxury is a great choice for those who want a more sophisticated and high-end medical alert system. The pendant has a sophisticated, jewelry-like design that makes it both fashionable and functional. The pendant has built-in two-way communication, GPS location tracking, and fall detection. It also comes with a lanyard and a breakaway clasp for added safety. The Luxury Pendant costs $43.95 a month with no upfront device fee.

System plans

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Availability of automatic fall detection
• Find My Loved One location services available for caregivers
• Unique jewelry-like design medical alert device
• No long-term obligations or cancellation fee
• 30-day money-back guarantee
• Low-cost spouse monitoring

Cons:

• On the expensive side when compared to other providers
• No landline option for home-based system
• Button's coverage only ranges from 600 to 650ft

Monitoring Center

LifeStation has two US-based monitoring centers located in New Jersey and Texas and both are staffed by care specialists who are trained to assist in any emergency situation 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and 365 days a year. Both of the monitoring centers are UL-listed and CSAA Five Diamond Certified which means that they are held to the highest industry standards.

They have an average response rate of 28 seconds and their operators can accommodate different languages, so you can be confident that you will always be able to reach someone who can help when you don’t speak English.

Who Should Consider LifeStation?

We recommend LifeStation for couples, especially seniors who live together, as you can get a second help button for just $3.95 a month. This is a great way to cut the cost of emergency monitoring in half. Instead of purchasing two separate systems, you can simply get one system with two buttons.

LifeStation is also best for seniors who tend to travel a lot or live an active lifestyle as their on-the-go system is comprehensive and user-friendly. It's great to have the peace of mind knowing that no matter where you are, you can always reach someone who can help in an emergency.

Lastly, for older people who are not comfortable wearing a medical alert device around their neck, the LifeStation Luxury is a great alternative as it looks like a piece of jewelry. This way, you can wear your medical alert device without feeling self-conscious about it while also staying safe and protected.

Understanding Medical Alert Systems’ Features

The best medical alert companies often offer a variety of features in their systems to meet the needs of a wide range of customers. Here are some of the features you may find:

Fall Detection

Automatic fall detection is one of the most important features that can be offered in a medical alert system. It uses sensors that can detect sudden downward movement, which is often indication of a fall. This feature automatically contacts the monitoring center so that help can be sent even if the user is unable to press the button.

This can be a life-saving feature as falls often result in serious injuries, unconsciousness, or even death, especially for seniors. Automatic fall detection often comes as an add-on or an upgrade to a standard plan and typically costs an extra few dollars per month.

GPS Location Tracking

This feature uses Global Positioning System (GPS) satellites, cellular network triangulation, or a combination of both to pinpoint the location of the user. It often comes built-in with mobile medical alert devices so users can be located even if they're away from home.

Devices that come with GPS location tracking can be extremely helpful in identifying the exact location of the user in the event of an emergency. It makes it easier for first responders to find the user and provide assistance. GPS location tracking can also be useful for caregivers and loved ones who want to be able to check in on a user's whereabouts which they can access through a web-based portal or mobile app.

Caregiver Portal/App

Some medical alert companies offer a caregiver portal or app that allows their loved ones and designated caregivers to access information about the user's account, receive alerts and notifications, and even contact the monitoring center on the user's behalf. This can be a helpful feature for managing care for a loved one from afar. It also gives caregivers peace of mind knowing they can easily check in on the user and get help if needed.

Two-Way Communication

All of the best medical alert companies we reviewed offer two-way communication, which allows users to directly speak with an emergency response operator at the monitoring center through the base unit or wearable help button.

This is an important feature as it allows users to quickly and easily get the help they need in an emergency without having to fumble around for a phone. Imagine not having to worry about finding your phone or remembering a phone number in a crisis, it really is a convenience that can make all the difference.

Activity Tracking

This feature tracks the user's activities and provides data that can be accessed by the user or their caregiver through a web-based portal or mobile app. This data can be used to monitor the user's health and well-being, as well as detect any changes in their patterns or routines.

Activities that are typically tracked include sleep, steps taken, and calories burned. Heart rate and blood pressure can also be monitored with some devices. This feature usually comes with systems that offer smartwatch-like devices as the help button.

Medication Reminders

This feature sends reminders to the user or their caregiver about taking medication. It can be a helpful way to ensure that users are staying on top of their medication regimen, which is especially important for those with chronic conditions. Medication reminders can be set up through a web-based portal or mobile app and typically come as an add-on or an upgrade to a standard plan.

This feature is especially helpful for older adults as they are more likely to take wrong or multiple medications each day. These devices include an alert light or alarm that goes off when it's time to take medication.

Multilingual Support

About 20% of the US population speaks a language other than English at home. That's why it's important for medical alert companies to provide multilingual availability so that everyone can get the help they need in an emergency.

Most of the providers included in our list of the best medical alert systems offer multilingual support, which can be extremely helpful for non-English speakers as it allows users to communicate with the monitoring center in their native language, which can help reduce stress and confusion in an already difficult situation.

Wall-Mounted Buttons

Some medical alert companies offer wall-mounted help buttons as an alternative or addition to the standard wearable help button. These are typically placed in high-risk areas at home such as the bathroom, kitchen or near the staircase.

They can be a helpful addition for users who may not always have their help button on them or within easy reach. Wall-mounted buttons typically come as an add-on or a premium upgrade to a basic plan.

Home Temperature Monitoring

This is a relatively new feature that is becoming more common among medical alert companies. It allows users to monitor the temperature in their homes through the base unit. This can be a helpful way to detect changes in the home environment that could pose a health risk to the user, such as extreme heat or cold. It can also be used to monitor for fires or carbon monoxide leaks.

Users set their home standard home temperature through a mobile app or during the initial sign-up process.

Remote Phone Answering

One out of the ten best medical alert systems offers a remote phone answering service. This is a unique feature that allows the user to answer an incoming landline call without having to pick up the phone. Users can simply press the help button on their base unit, which will automatically answer the call and put it on speaker.

How We Chose the Top Medical Alert Systems?

Methodology

Seniors may face medical emergencies as they age, and planning for it calls for a matter of urgency. With the emergence of numerous medical alert systems in the market, you must make an intelligent decision on what life-line to choose for you or your loved one.

Our ratings are grounded on a sound evaluation based on our criteria, with four core metrics and 18 sub-metrics to determine a data-driven ranking to help you narrow down your choices in choosing the best medical alert system, according to your unique needs and budget. The four core metrics we considered are as follows:

Home-Based System Feature (25%)

In grading the Home-based features, we looked at the following sub-categories:

• Water Resistance (30%).
• Range of Protection (30%)
• Fall detection (30%)
• Cellular fee (10%)

A Home-Based medical alert system generally provides protection in all areas of the home, at a given range capacity depending on the system. It typically consists of a base console that connects to a mobile, and a wearable device usually as a water-proof pendant or a wristband. The base unit can connect to the monitoring center using your landline or a cellular connection.

First, the device should be waterproof to specifically comply with our standards. We need to make sure that the device can be used especially in the shower where most accidental falls happen. Falls are the leading cause of fatal and non-fatal injuries among the elderly.

Next, we focus on the range capacity of the device. How far can the wearable device stay connected to the base console? The wider the range, the better. Some medical alert systems have a range capacity that would fit for the average size of a house, but some exceed the standard, which is a better deal for someone who wants an extra layer of assurance and protection.

We gave a 30% rating for availability and compatibility of fall detection technology to the device. This is especially important as injuries are commonly caused by falls, and senior citizens are most prone to this accident.

Finally, a 10% for the cellular connection. Does the provider charge an extra fee for cellular connection? Not every home has a landline connectivity, so it is important to have an option for cellular connection. While some providers add a minimal fee for this, many of the companies we have reviewed offer this at no additional cost.

On-The-Go System (25%)

For the On-the-Go system, the ideal score is 25%, which is determined through a more intricate rating of the following sub-categories;

• Water Resistance (22.50%)
• Battery Life (22.50%)
• GPS location tracking (22.50%)
• Fall detection (22.50%)
• Caregiving App (10%)

An on-the-go medical alert system is most useful for seniors who enjoy traveling, roaming around, and for those who tend to wander off. Among the grounds in determining the best mobile medical alert systems is whether the device is water-resistant and safe for use in damp environments and especially when it rains.

Additionally, a good on-the-go device should be GPS-enabled as this ensures that the monitoring center can quickly determine your location in an emergency. The device should also be water-proof, compact and lightweight, and has an adequate battery life.

Next is the battery life. How long does the battery last before recharging it? The device should be serviceable for the longest time as the system is capable of. This adds to the peace of mind of the users whenever they roam around and even when they are out traveling for days.

Fall detection is also an ideal add-on feature for the on-the-go device, as accidents happen anytime, anywhere. This is especially important as injuries are commonly caused by falls.

Another consideration is the Caregiving App. Is there an app wherein you can trace the user’s activity? This is a must-have feature to provide convenience and added protection on the part of the user, as their activities and whereabouts are tracked real-time by their family members or of their caregiver.

Monitoring Center Reliability (30%)

• Here are the subcategories we used to evaluate each provider's monitoring center:
• Location: 20%
• Third-Party Certification: 25%
• Response Rate: 40%
• Multilingual Availability: 15%

When it comes to evaluating a medical alert provider, one of the most important factors to consider is the reliability and efficiency of its monitoring center. A good monitoring center should be staffed 24/7 with personnel who are trained in emergency response.

We at Elderguide prefer monitoring centers that are 100% US-based, as they tend to have faster response times. The average time it takes for an emergency response operator to attend to an emergency alert or call is also a critical factor to consider.

It is also important to make sure that the monitoring center is certified by a third-party organization, such as UL or TMA. This ensures that they meet certain standards for quality and reliability and that they have the necessary training and resources to provide a high level of service.

Finally, you will want to make sure that the monitoring center can accommodate callers who do not speak English because more than 20% of the US population speaks a language other than English at home.

Overall Cost (20%)

Here are the costs we have taken into account when evaluating each provider:

• Monitoring Fees: 30%
• Device Cost: 25%
• Cancellation Fee: 15%
• Spouse Monitoring/Extra Button Cost: 15%
• Shipping Fee: 15%

Last but not least, the overall cost of the service is an important factor to consider. This includes the monthly monitoring fees, cancellation and shipping fees, as well as the cost of the devices and any additional features you may want, such as spouse monitoring or an extra button.

We believe that a medical alert system should be affordable for everyone and added features for security and protection should not come at an extra cost. These devices can potentially save a life, so price should not be a barrier for anyone.