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2x Buyer's Choice Award Winner

Life Alert Reviews

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Edited by: Justin Martino

About Life Alert

Life Alert was founded in 1987, making it one of the first personal emergency response companies in the United States. The company’s systems have a base hub and a help button that can be worn around the neck on a pendant or wristband. Life Alert advertises that its pendants have a 10-year battery life and don't require charging. Monitoring centers are UL-certified and have the Five Diamond designation from The Monitoring Association.

Visit www.lifealert.com
Pros
  • 24/7 professional monitoring
  • Pendants don't require regular charging
  • Waterproof equipment
Cons
  • $198 activation fee
  • Requires three-year contract
  • Not ideal for online shoppers

Helpful Reviews

Pioneer, CA
Verified purchase
I have fallen several times and used Life Alert to obtain assistance in getting up and examined for any additional injury requiring a trip to the ER. The system worked perfectly e...

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New Port Richey, FL
Verified purchase
The device is lightweight, I charge it every night. I feel secure should an emergency requiring help occur since I can signal a request for help. There is a phone number on the de...

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Life Alert devices

How Life Alert works

Life Alert offers a medical alert system you can wear as a pendant or bracelet. It connects you to a monitoring center with trained professionals who can help in an emergency.

The pendant has a range of up to 1,000 feet from the base unit, and microphones can amplify up to 150 feet away.

Here's how it works: When you press the button on your Life Alert device, it's like sending up a flare to let the monitoring center know you need help. The help button is designed to be easy to use, even if you have mobility challenges or difficulty with your hands.

When pressed, the pendant transmits a signal to the base unit, notifying the monitoring center. Once connected to the monitoring center, you can speak to an operator through the device. Tell the operator what you need, and they'll dispatch help. If there's no response, Life Alert automatically contacts the proper authorities.

Life Alert costs

Expect to pay $200 upfront to get started. One quote for Life Alert’s monthly service ranged between $50 and $100 — meaning a 36-month contract could total roughly $2,000 to $3,600. Pricing can vary, so it’s best to contact the company directly for the most current rates.

Life Alert FAQ

Does Life Alert require a landline?

Life Alert can run on a landline or cellular connection.

Does Life Alert have GPS?

Yes, Life Alert offers systems with built-in GPS.

How much does Life Alert cost per year?

You’ll need to pay an activation fee of $198 to get started. A quote at the time of publication placed annual Life Alert costs between $2,000 and $3,600 per year for monitoring, with monthly costs ranging from $50 to $100.

Is Life Alert covered by Medicare?

Life Alert systems usually aren’t covered by Medicare. However, some Medicare Advantage plans might cover some of the cost of Life Alert for seniors — it depends on your provider. You might also qualify for medical alert coverage under your long-term care insurance plan.

What are the alternatives to Life Alert?

For some great Life Alert alternatives, check out our guide to finding the best medical alert companies:

  • Our top pick overall: Bay Alarm Medical
  • Our pick for customer service: Life Alert
  • Our pick for in-home safety: MobileHelp
  • Our pick for on-the-go use: Medical Alert
  • Our pick for a risk-free option: LifeStation

Still have questions?

Is Life Alert worth it?

Yes, Life Alert offers a valuable service that most reviewers say is worth it. Life Alert reviews on our site are generally positive, highlighting the company’s reliable service and quick response time, though some say it’s difficult to cancel.

While the price is higher than the average cost of a medical alert system, the company has a long reputation for quality service. You can find cheaper systems with more advanced features, like longer in-home ranges and fall detection, but many people might prefer Life Alert's streamlined set of features and easy-to-understand operation.

Life Alert Reviews

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    Page 1 Reviews 0 - 35
    Verified purchase

    Reviewed Aug. 25, 2026

    Getting ready to go upstairs when I got up my body was really wild so I sat back down in the chair. I just wasn’t feeling myself so I pressed the Life Alert button. The dispatcher was so nice I knew I was in good hands.

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      Verified purchase

      Reviewed Aug. 14, 2026

      I was sitting on the toilet and my leg fell asleep. I stood up and fell and I couldn’t get up. Life Alert called the fire department and they came and helped me up. Thank you for your help.

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      Verified purchase

      Reviewed Aug. 12, 2026

      I was putting ice trays in the refrigerator, lost my balance. Called Life Alert who called my sons and they came immediately and picked me up. Life Alert stayed on phone till I was safely up. Thank you.

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      Verified purchase

      Reviewed Aug. 11, 2026

      I tripped coming back to my bed in a very dark bedroom. Have now put in night lights to help and use my walker instead of the cane. Life Alert called Fire Department to come and help me back to bed.

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      Verified purchase
      Customer ServiceFall Detection

      Reviewed July 31, 2026

      She was having congestive heart failure so we hit the Life Alert call button. Rescue services were here in about 5 minutes. She was taken to the hospital we chose. We are very happy with the Life Alert Services.

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      Profile pic of the author.
      Fall Detection

      Reviewed Oct. 6, 2026

      I do not recommend Life Alert. Unless you plan on keeping the account for three years. We tried to cancel our subscription but was denied. We don’t even use the device anymore because my husband had his medical issues resolved. The device sits there unused, but we still have to pay $89 a month for 3 years. I asked if we could pay a fee to cancel and was told no.

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      Life Alert
      Response from Life Alert

      Thank you for sharing your feedback. We are glad to hear that your husband's health has improved. Life Alert's protection is not limited to one person or one medical condition. Our service provides around-the-clock emergency coverage for the household, including falls, medical emergencies, and break-ins. In fact, Life Alert responded to three emergencies for your household last year, demonstrating the value of having protection available when needed. The three-year service term and cancellation conditions were explained and provided to you before enrollment. We honor our commitment to providing continuous emergency protection to our members throughout their service agreements. Lastly, our records show that our Customer Care team has been in contact with you regarding your concerns and has worked with you to address your account.

      Resolution In Progress
      Profile pic of the author.
      Customer ServicePriceRefunds & PayoutsFall DetectionStaff

      Reviewed Sept. 24, 2026

      I ordered Life Alert for my 86-year-old grandmother. She wore it one day and refused to wear it again. The ordering process was super easy, very friendly and informative. My rep was Billie. We had the product for 5 days and decided to turn it back in due to my grandmother not wanting it. You can't force an 86-year-old woman to wear something if she doesn't want too. We respected her wishes. When I called Billie back and told her I wanted to cancel, she tried everything in her power to get me to keep it. I respectfully declined. I knew I wouldn't get money back; that's not the problem.

      The problem started when I was passed around like a package. The reps were not informative AT ALL. I spoke to 4 different ones. All I wanted was my ordered cancelled and to know where to send it back, that was like pulling teeth to get that information. They're all about being nice and helping until you decide you don't want it anymore. After speaking to a manager, Brandon, he was very nice and told me he cancelled my order. I don't understand why people have to be so rude when a customer is cancelling an order. Do better Life Alert. Train your employees better and BE NICE. It cost $0 to be nice and courteous.

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      Life Alert
      Response from Life Alert
      We’re sorry you feel you had a bad experience. We were not able to find a call where a representative was rude, however, we have escalated your feedback to upper management.
      Sincerely,

      Life Alert.

      Customer ServiceSales & MarketingRefunds & PayoutsSales Tactics

      Reviewed Sept. 11, 2026

      If you don’t mind high pressure sales pitch and follow-up this might be for you. If you’re not satisfied with their customer service and their service in general, too bad. If you try to talk to them and get a refund you’ll be sent around and around in circles for over an hour. I did have a good experience with them with my grandfather, but with my parent that is living, they didn’t listen to him and they end up calling emergency services in the middle of the night which wastes our tax dollars and they were told not to. I would not use this company ever again or recommend it.

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      Life Alert
      Response from Life Alert

      We understand the concern. When your father's emergency button was activated, he was unable to provide the password required to cancel the alarm. Without that verification, we had no way to confirm he was safe or able to speak freely — an inability to give the password is exactly the kind of signal our system is designed to catch, since it can indicate an elderly person is in distress or being prevented from speaking openly by a 3rd party. Dispatching emergency services was the responsible protocol. We've been trying to reach you since, and have left messages for you. Please call our Customer Care department at 1-800-803-6320, ext. 1300. Thank you, Life Alert.

      PriceRefunds & PayoutsFall DetectionStaffEase of Use

      Reviewed Sept. 10, 2026

      Life alert charged a large nonrefundable initiation fee. When we received the product, we tested it. It was difficult to hear the representatives and they had a hard time hearing us. For someone with mild dementia, it was not simple to use—there were too many instructions for what to do inside vs outside the home. We paid for the gps tracking option, but we didn’t understand that there was no way for my dad to contact life alert unless he was in the home. Life alert would not return about $400 and we never used the product.

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      Life Alert
      Response from Life Alert

      We’re sorry for your frustration. Before the order was completed, the non-refundable setup fee, which covers equipment programming and activation, was explained. Our records confirm that the equipment was shipped, installed and tested, and that the required paperwork confirming activation and membership enrollment was returned. We would also like to clarify that the GPS mobile device is specifically designed for use away from the home and is simple to use. When help is needed, the member simply presses the HELP button to contact Life Alert. The account has been reviewed, and we confirmed that the applicable prorated refund will be returned to you. If you have any questions regarding the refund, please contact our Billing Department at 1-800-803-6320, ext. 1200. Thank you.

      Verified purchase

      Reviewed Aug. 31, 2026

      I fell on kitchen floor. Unable to get up. Life Alert was pushed and help was there in about 10 minutes. Thank you so much.

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      Verified purchase

      Reviewed Aug. 31, 2026

      I love Life Alert, they stay on line until the help arrives—felt safe.

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      Verified purchase

      Reviewed Aug. 31, 2026

      Had a stroke. Life Alert may have saved my life.

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      Verified purchase

      Reviewed Aug. 28, 2026

      All I can say they saved my life. They were great. God Bless Life Alert.

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      Verified purchase

      Reviewed Aug. 28, 2026

      Life Alert is always helpful, courteous & nice.

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      Verified purchase

      Reviewed Aug. 28, 2026

      Called due to emergency unable to breath. Life Alert stayed on the phone and spoke to paramedic. Very thorough

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      Verified purchase

      Reviewed Aug. 27, 2026

      I had heart surgery a CABG—thought I was having a heart attack. Thank you Life Alert for your service.

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      Verified purchase

      Reviewed Aug. 27, 2026

      Fell in floor & could not get up. Life Alert called the rescue squad to come & help me up. Thank you.

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      Verified purchase

      Reviewed Aug. 27, 2026

      Over the course of 3yrs we have utilized Life Alert quite a bit. Every time has been a positive experience dealing with customer experience. Thank you.

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      Verified purchase

      Reviewed Aug. 26, 2026

      Fell & needed help getting up—no injuries. Very polite & helpful. Thanks.

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      Verified purchase

      Reviewed Aug. 26, 2026

      Life Alert saved my life three times.

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      Verified purchase

      Reviewed Aug. 26, 2026

      I had fallen in my bathroom and needed help to get up. Life Alert sent EMS and picked me up. They took my vital signs and I did not request going to the hospital.

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      Verified purchase

      Reviewed Aug. 25, 2026

      Life Alert kept me calm. They kept informing me that the Fire Dept. was on the way. Stayed with me till Fire Dept. got there.

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      Verified purchase

      Reviewed Aug. 25, 2026

      I fell and Life Alert got in touch with EMT and my family.

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      Verified purchase

      Reviewed Aug. 24, 2026

      Used Life Alert twice this year. They were wonderful. Thank you.

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      Verified purchase

      Reviewed Aug. 24, 2026

      I fell on the sidewalk in the front yard while prepping to garden. Ended up with 3 fractures on my humous shoulder. Life Alert came quickly.

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      Verified purchase

      Reviewed Aug. 24, 2026

      Fell & hit my head. I couldn’t get myself up. Called Life Alert & paramedics came.

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      Verified purchase

      Reviewed Aug. 21, 2026

      Life Alert answered quickly. The dispatcher stayed on the line, until EMT arrived, checking on me frequently.

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      Verified purchase

      Reviewed Aug. 21, 2026

      Life Alert is so good professional—they have always taken great care of me & they do care.

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      Verified purchase

      Reviewed Aug. 21, 2026

      Life Alert people who helped me on that day were very helpful. I don’t know them but they were all angels.

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      Verified purchase

      Reviewed Aug. 20, 2026

      My loved one was choking and Life Alert stayed on the line and alerted 911 for us.

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      Verified purchase

      Reviewed Aug. 20, 2026

      My mother fell (2) different times on different days. Life Alert was at location very quickly and helped with getting her to hospital.

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      Verified purchase

      Reviewed Aug. 20, 2026

      I fell and put my teeth through top lip rescue squad & firemen 3 of each came then ambulance with 3 more medics came. Life Alert gave good directions. Went to hospital in ambulance.

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      Verified purchase

      Reviewed Aug. 19, 2026

      Life Alert always stays on the line until one of the firemen talk to Life Alert.

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      Verified purchase

      Reviewed Aug. 19, 2026

      I fell and could not get up. Life Alert helped me up and going again. I have recommended Life Alert to others, and I am glad that I have it.

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      Verified purchase

      Reviewed Aug. 19, 2026

      I had fallen outside coming up my steps. I marked my Life Alert and they sent help to get me up. Thank you.

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      Verified purchase

      Reviewed Aug. 18, 2026

      I fell & broke my right wrist. The emergency crew was very careful. Life Alert has been a godsend. Thank you.

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      Verified purchase

      Reviewed Aug. 18, 2026

      I was clipping weeds & the stick bend and snapped. I fell into the flower bed. I used my pendant & waited for help. The police came & rescue assessed me. No injuries.

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      Verified purchase

      Reviewed Aug. 18, 2026

      Fell out of bed in a deep sleep, unable to get myself up. Life Alert notified EMS. They came, checked me out and helped me up to a chair.

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      Verified purchase

      Reviewed Aug. 17, 2026

      Father’s Day. I fell & broke trochanter in (L) thigh. Life Alert answered immediately. Surgery done the next day. You guys are great. Thanks!

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      Verified purchase

      Reviewed Aug. 17, 2026

      I am 91 years old and live alone. I could not live without Life Alert. They have saved my life three time with broken bones.

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      Life Alert Company Information

      Company Name:
      Life Alert Emergency Response, Inc.
      Website:
      www.lifealert.com

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