What is a Medical Alert System?
A medical alert system is designed to quickly get help in case of an emergency. People buy these for themselves or a family member for several reasons, like living alone, being at risk of falling, or having certain conditions that may require unexpected medical attention.
There are several types of devices available that provide different types of protection, including at-home and on-the-go monitoring. Because of this, it's important to find one that suits your needs and lifestyle.
Along with different types of monitoring, you also have to consider monthly pricing and the number of add-on features. This is important as these medical device systems offer unique features and varying pricing structures.
How Do Medical Alert Systems Work?
There are two types of medical alert designs: at-home systems and on-the-go systems. Home alert systems typically consist of a base station and a wearable button that you can push whenever you need help. These connect to monitoring centers via landlines or cellular networks.
Once you activate the help button, your device contacts a trained operator who reaches out to emergency services or a designated family member, depending on the situation. At-home units are suitable for seniors who are home alone most of the time or only leave the house with caregivers.
In contrast, on-the-go systems give users a bit more freedom to leave the house without supervision. These devices work as long as they are charged and connected to a cellular network.
They also have a wearable button that connects to a trained operator and sends help when activated. They also don't need a base station, so you can go about your day, stay active, and still feel safe whether you're at home or out and about.
How to Choose a Medical Alert System
Choosing a medical alert system can be overwhelming, mainly because there are so many different devices and features that go with each plan. You need to look at the equipment's in-home range of use, real-time connectivity with the monitoring center, automatic fall detection, and of course, its cost.
Before choosing one, assess your lifestyle and level of mobility, the size of your home, your budget, and health risks like falling or getting lost when you're outside alone. This will help you determine which kind of system is right for your needs: in-home or mobile.
While an in-home system works best for older adults who don't go outside often, a mobile device is more suited for seniors who go out on their own to run errands or tend to their gardens.
How Much Does a Medical Alert System Cost?
A medical alert system can cost anywhere between $20 and $50/month to start, but this generally excludes taxes and any additional fees, such as equipment activation and shipping.
Once you decide on the type of system you want to purchase, and how many extra features you want to add, you'll be able to determine your monthly cost. However, watch out for hidden fees like equipment repair and cancellation charges.
Health insurance also usually does not cover medical alert systems, but check with your insurance provider to confirm this. You can contact them by calling the number on the back of your insurance card or through their website.
Medical Alert System Features
There are several different features to consider when deciding which medical alert system is right for you. These include connectivity options, pinpoint location detection, two-way communication functionality, and medication reminders.
Here are a few essential features to consider when choosing a medical alert system.
Monitoring Services
Your medical alert system should be monitored 24/7 by well-trained, professional operators who are certified by industry-standard organizations like the Security Industry Association (SIA) or the CSA Group. Life Alert, for example, has its own network of Five Diamond certified monitoring centers throughout the US. Its operators spend up to a year in training, learning about medical conditions, personal safety, and Life Alert equipment.
Multilingual Support
If English is not your native language, you'll need to find a monitoring service that employs operators fluent in several languages or has access to translation services when needed. For example, Lively's response agents can provide translation support in over 100 languages. Additionally, you'll need to verify where the monitoring centers are located. If they are located outside the US or Canada, the operators may not be native English speakers.
Landline or Cellular Connection
Most companies, like ADT Health, offer systems that can either connect to a landline or cellular network. These services mainly rely on AT&T or Verizon networks to connect your equipment to their monitoring systems. In most cases, however, you won't be required to sign contracts with these providers to receive monitoring. Your device will work as long as you live or travel in an area where these networks are available.
GPS Location Tracking
When you purchase an on-the-go system, you may have the option to add GPS location tracking to your service. Medical alert pendants, like the Kanega Watch from UnaliWear, connect through WiFi, cellular networks, and GPS signals to track your location. In case of an emergency, the monitoring center will be able to pinpoint your location and direct emergency services or caregivers your way.
Activity Tracking
Some mobile medical alert systems offer activity tracking that can record your daily step count, heart rate, oxygen levels, and even how well you sleep. For example, MobileHelp's activity tracking (which includes fall detection) can help you stay healthy by allowing you to monitor your daily activities for an extra $6/month. This feature ensures you maintain an active and healthy lifestyle. It can also notify your designated family member if you're inactive for an extended period of time.
Additional Help Buttons Around the Home
Additional emergency buttons can be mounted on walls or placed in locations where accidents often occur, like bathrooms or staircases. They can also be used as panic buttons on bedside tables. Medical Guardian, for example, offers two types of wall-mountable buttons; one you can push and another that's voice-activated. Both are available for an extra $2/month.
Water Resistance
A water-resistant device can't be completely submerged in water, but you can wear it in the shower or mount it on the wall above the bathtub. One Call Alert's water-resistant devices can even withstand light rain. These devices ensure you have access to help in case you slip and fall.
Two-Way Communication
Not all medical alert systems allow you to communicate directly with an operator when you need assistance, so you need to confirm if your chosen system offers this feature. With some systems, like LifeFone, you can connect with an operator who will speak with you, assess your situation and call for help if needed. Other systems will call 911 or your designated emergency contact directly once you press the help button.
Medication Reminders and/or Dispensers
With a medication reminder, you can keep track of the pills you take and when you take them. This feature is convenient for individuals who live alone and need to keep up with several prescriptions daily.
It notifies you when it's time to take your pills, which improves medication adherence and "can affect patient health positively," according to this study. Lifeline even offers a programmable medication dispenser that can measure and dispense the correct dosages as prescribed by your doctor.
Caregiver Web Portal or Mobile App
Several medical alert companies offer a web portal or mobile app, some free and others at an extra cost. These apps and portals keep you and your family connected to your caregiver to help better coordinate your care. Medical Alert's complimentary app, for example, even uses GPS technology to pinpoint your location whenever there's an emergency.
What Different Types of Medical Alert Systems Are There
The two main types of medical alert systems, namely in-home and mobile devices, can either be monitored or unmonitored. If a system is monitored, you can communicate with an on-call operator. In contrast, an unmonitored system notifies your family member or emergency services directly without establishing contact with you.
Apart from their monitoring services, in-home and mobile devices are very different and suit diverse needs. Here are the most significant distinctions between these two systems.
In-Home Devices
An in-home medical alert system consists of a base station that can connect to a landline or cellular network. It normally comes with a help button that you can wear around your neck or on your wrist. You can also get optional accessories, including voice extenders and wall buttons. With an in-home system, however, the wearable device only works if it's within range of the base station, making it the best choice for people who spend most of their time in their houses.
Mobile Devices
Mobile alert systems connect to a cellular network through various cellphone companies. These devices are usually wearable and come with a button that lets you call for help whenever you're outside your home. Many of these have GPS tracking features, so the emergency call center or your designated contact person will know exactly where you are when you call for help. These devices are ideal for active seniors who spend a lot of time away from home.
Medical Alert System Contracts - Warranties and Policies
Some medical alert companies won't require you to enter into a contract and only charge you a monthly fee for as long as you use their services. However, most providers will ask you to sign a contract. You need to ensure you understand what you're agreeing to before giving them your signature—especially since these companies likely charge a cancellation fee if the service is discontinued.
Apart from cancellation fees, you also need to read through your device's warranty stipulations to find out if there are hidden fees associated with replacing a lost or damaged device. Your homeowner's insurance policy may also cover your medical alert system in case of theft or damage. But you'll have to check with your insurance provider to confirm coverage.
Insurance Coverage of Medical Alert Systems
Medical alert systems can be costly, so having insurance coverage to help with the expense can relieve some of the financial pressure. Unfortunately, most insurance companies, like Medicaid, don't cover the cost of medical alert systems. But these plans can vary by state, so contact your insurance provider to confirm whether they offer full or partial coverage.
On the other hand, Medicare Advantage, also known as Medicare Part C, may cover at least part of the cost. If you're a veteran or a veteran's spouse, you may also receive coverage through VA benefits. Check with your VA insurance provider to confirm whether you're eligible for reimbursement for a medical alert system.
Emergency Medical Alert Systems with Fall Detection
Fall detection can sense when you've collapsed by monitoring your movement through sensors on your wearable device. When you fall, the device automatically sends an alert to the monitoring center, which then notifies a family member or emergency services on your behalf. There is usually an additional fee of at least $10/month for automatic fall detection. Still, individuals living alone and at high risk of falling should consider getting a medical alert system with this feature.
Wearable Medical Alert Devices
The main types of wearable medical alert devices include pendants, bracelets, wristbands, and smartwatches. These devices ensure you have access to emergency assistance wherever you go. They are usually water resistant and can be worn in the shower and at night while sleeping. Some medical alert companies offer additional services with wearable technology like medication reminders and activity trackers—some can even measure the quality of your sleep. Also, because you'll be wearing the device almost all the time, you need to choose one that is comfortable and easy to use.
Medical Alert Systems for Seniors
Medical alert systems create elderly care solutions that let seniors enjoy their independence in a safe environment for longer. In-home and mobile medical alert systems can assure older adults that help is just a push of a button away if they fall or experience any kind of emergency.
When seniors live alone, they often need home health monitoring for medical (and non-medical) emergencies, such as experiencing shortness of breath or feeling unsafe. Medical alert systems can reduce the risk and fear of living alone by ensuring that elderly assistance will be available whenever it's needed.
More Medical Alert Systems We Reviewed
Beyond the 10 systems we've included here, there are a variety of other providers we reviewed that are also worth checking out. Consider these medical alert services if you're looking for more options:
- LifeStation - Best for personalized emergency action plans
- HelpButton - Best for active older adults who go on regular hikes and like to swim
- Constant Companion - Best for caregivers and senior assisted-living facilities
- Aloe Care Health - Best for access to a searchable online knowledge base
- GetSafe - Best for voice-activated emergency buttons for seniors
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Hold On to Your Independence
Every medical alert system has different features, pros, cons, and costs. But reading our reviews and experiences with each system can help you decide which service suits your lifestyle and budget best. You can also look at customer reviews and consult your family physician for more facts, suggestions, and experiences. The right medical alert system will help you hold on to your independence safely and give you and your family peace of mind.
Natural Intelligence does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or your local emergency number immediately.
