As we age, we are prone to things like falls, strokes and other critical medical issues that need quick response. But sometimes it’s hard to get assistance, especially if you are unable to reach a phone to call for help. Medical alert systems are particularly great for the elderly, since they have either an around the neck or wrist wearable device option.
Many systems these days have an enhanced technology that even supports automatic fall detection, for immediate assistance. Medical alert systems provide peace of mind for the elderly, those with on-going medical issues and concerned family members.
How Do Medical Systems Work?
Medical alert systems communicate through a monitoring center, which operates 24/7 for rapid response. Operators are on staff to communicate with the wearer and when necessary, they will immediately alert emergency personnel of a medical emergency.
These systems have been responsible for saving the lives of many indivudals who may not have not have had the chance to receive critical help from others in dire situations.
Wanting to find the right medical alert system for you or a loved one? We recommend the following products:
Top Medical Alert Systems on the Market
1. Philips LifeLine GoSafe
The Philips LifeLine GoSafe is a truly dependable medical alert system. It comes with two different options: a landline ($54.95/month) and a wireless option ($64.95). The thing to keep in mind is that regardless of which option you choose, there is an additional one-time device fee of $149.
- Auto Alert Fall Detection: The GoSafe pendant features an automatic fall detection, which means a button doesn’t have to be pushed AFTER a fall occurs. The automatic feature can detect 95 percent of falls.
- Two-Way Voice Communication: Using the GoSafe pendant, a Lifeline Response Associate can be directly contacted.
- 6 Location Technologies: The Philips LifeLine GoSafe operates using 6 technologies, which uses GPS tracking, Wi-Fi and Cellular Uplink technology to swiftly track the wearer’s location.
- 24/7 Response Center Access: Have constant access to a personal response associate— regardless of the time or the level of emergency. Associates are highly trained and speak a variety of languages.
- Multiple Contact Call Ability: When in need to contact emergency personnel or someone from your contact list, the response center can contact multiple contacts.
2. Bay Alarm Medical In-Home Medical Alert
A landline-connected device is $29/month; a cellular connection is $39/month and a Mobile GPS Help Button is $29/month. Prices may vary, depending on whether or not the semi-annual and quarterly options are selected. The prices stated above are for the month-to-month option. Keep in mind that there is also an $80 equipment fee.
First off, the Bay Alarm Medical In-Home Medical Alert system requires some customization and additional add-ons. For example, it supports fall detection, but it must be added (an additional $10/month). There is the option to also add the following: an additional lanyard button, a wrist button, medical alert wall button, lock box and more.
- 24/7 monitoring with 3 Call Centers: With 3 monitoring centers, support is guaranteed 24/7. All calls—regardless of the time of day or night will be answered and quickly addressed. There aren’t any wait times.
- Automatic Fall Detection Capability: This feature is available with an upgrade. It is compatible with both the landline and cellular systems.
- GPS Wireless Technology Capability: The GPS Monitor option can wirelessly track the user’s location, which is powered by AT&T’s Nationwide Cellular Network.
- Two-Way Communication: The device supports quick and effortless two-way communication. Users can directly speak with a Bay Alarm Medical Associate whenever assistance is needed.
- Nationwide Coverage: Medical alert systems are compatible with major phone lines and cable providers, such as: Comcast, Time Warner, Cox, AT&T and Verizon.
- Discounts Available: AARP, Amac and USAA members are eligible for discounts.
3. MobileHelp Duo
The MobileHelp Duo is for use both inside and outside the home. It is a reliable medical alert system that is more all encompassing, rather than a-la-cart. Cost-wise, it starts as low as $41.95/month but drops to $393.40 if it’s paid for a year of service upfront. There may be an activation fee, however, sometimes there are discounts. The thing to note with the MobileHelp Duo is that it is wireless, so it does not support a landline connection.
- Cellular Base Station: The wireless station does not require a landline.
- 24/7 Monitoring: Get fast, dependable service whenever assistance is needed.
- Multiple Contact Call Ability: Emergency personnel and loved ones will be contacted in the event of an emergency.
- Automatic Fall Detection Compatible: With the MobileHelp Fall Button, falls can be automatically detected. This feature is an additional $10/month.
- Works both Inside and Outside the Home: The device operates using cellular and GPS tracking.
- Additional Wearables: Comes with a choice of two waterproof wrist buttons or neck pendants.
4. Medical Alert
Medical Alert comes in several different options: At Home Landline ($32.99/month), At Home No Landline ($37.99/month), and On the Go ($42.99/month). It does provide things like automatic fall detection, but it must be added on as part of a bundle.
- 24/7 Support: Provides assistance 24/7 with fast response.
- Easy to Setup: Essentially plug and go.
- Equipment is Free: No equipment or activation fees.
- Automatic Fall Detection Compatible: Can be added as part of the medical Alert bundle package.
- Two-Way Communication: Speak directly to Medical Alert personnel when assistance is needed.
