Best Medical Alert Systems of 2025

We compared 25 companies and chose the top medical alert systems

  • Best overall
    Bay Alarm Medical
    4.2(3,661)
  • Customer service
    Life Alert
    4.9(7,893)
  • In-home safety
    MobileHelp
    4.5(300)

Best Medical Alert Systems of 2025

Our top 5 picks for medical alert systems

  1. Our top pick overall: Bay Alarm Medical
  2. Our pick for customer service: Life Alert
  3. Our pick for in-home safety: MobileHelp
  4. Our pick for on-the-go use: Medical Alert
  5. Our pick for a risk-free option: LifeStation
Best overall
Bay Alarm Medical
Average monthly cost
$33.28
Mobile battery life
Varies
In-home range
1,000 feet
On-the-go options
Standard, wrist, smartwatch

We recommend Bay Alarm Medical as our top pick overall because it received high praise from ConsumerAffairs reviewers across multiple categories. Customers gave high ratings for staff satisfaction, competitive monthly pricing, quick response times, overall performance and customer service.

Bay Alarm Medical reviewers on our site also frequently praise the company's technical support, noting that representatives take time to help set up devices and ensure users understand how everything works.

Pros

  • High customer service ratings
  • Quick response time
  • Low monthly pricing
  • GPS tracking capabilities

Cons

  • Pricey equipment fees
  • Few reports of confusing user experience

Monthly monitoring costs $24.95 to $64.95, and equipment fees range from $0 to $199. All devices but one come with an equipment fee, though Bay Alarm frequently offers sales. Fall detection is available on the SOS Smartwatch, the SOS All-In-One and the SOS Home packages for $150 ($120 annually plus a one-time $30 equipment charge). Bundle packages, which include mobile fall detection and wireless wall buttons, start at $39.95 as of publishing.

  • SOS Home: This system includes a leased base unit at no cost and a waterproof help button with optional fall detection. Monthly monitoring costs $24.95 with a landline and $29.95 with cellular service as of publishing.
  • SOS Smartwatch: This water-resistant device costs $199 as of publishing and includes GPS location tracking. Monthly monitoring costs $39.95.
  • SOS All-In-One: This device is water-resistant and costs $149 upfront as of publishing. It weighs 1.8 ounces and offers up to 72 hours of battery life. Monthly monitoring for the SOS All-In-One is $34.95.
  • SOS Micro: Bay Alarm's lightest device weighs 0.7 ounces and offers up to 36 hours of battery life. The $74.50 equipment fee includes three wearing options: wrist strap, lanyard and belt clip. Monthly monitoring costs $29.95 as of publishing.
  • “The few times it was used, the service was very prompt and given in a very kind and calm way. And when we tested the system on occasion, it was always an easy process.” — Carl in Pennsylvania
  • “John A. was extremely kind, helpful, and thorough. He walked me through the complete process of setting up and testing my new alert system. Thanks a lot, John! You were a BIG help.” — James in California
  • “I had times where I hit the help button in error and the person that came on asked me if I fell and was I alright. The service is well worth the money since they are all so kind and helpful. You can tell they are compassionate people and want to help the person that has fallen.” — Susan in Georgia
  • “My husband uses it mostly but he has some memory problems so it hasn't really worked as well as we had hoped. Also, he has trouble getting it to show him the time, so we put it on the setting where if he raises his arm up, it should come to where he can light it to see it, but the battery goes down really quickly. But the good thing is that somebody is always there to respond to an SOS call.” —  Kay from Texas
Customer service
Life Alert
Average monthly cost
$99.88
Mobile battery life
72 hours
In-home range
1,000 feet
On-the-go options
Standard

Life Alert is our recommendation for customer service because users report outstanding experiences with staff. Reviewers on our site frequently mention particular dispatchers by name and express high satisfaction with response times. Upfront fees at Life Alert are quite high, and its three-year contracts are a bit long for the industry, but many customers feel the excellent service makes Life Alert worth the price.

Pros

  • Long lasting batteries
  • Outstanding customer support
  • Quick response times
  • Waterproof equipment

Cons

  • Costly activation fee
  • Requires three-year contract
  • Scant information on website

As of publishing, Life Alert charges an activation fee of $198. Monthly monitoring fees range from $49.95 to $69. Contracts last 36 months, meaning you might pay between $2,000 and $2,700 over the course of three years. For the most accurate Life Alert pricing information, it’s best to contact the company directly.

  • Life Alert Base Unit: This unit includes 24/7 monitoring and can work on cellular or landline connections. Its backup battery lasts 72 hours.
  • Life Alert Emergency Pendant: These devices are fully waterproof, last for 10 years and work within 1,000 feet of the base unit.
  • Life Alert Help Button: These devices are waterproof with batteries that last up to 10 years.
  • “Medical staff at the hospital told me your [Life Alert] workers saved my Life. Thank you, a million times, over.” — D in Florida
  • “They got EMT ambulance to us so quickly, I couldn’t believe the speed. Much faster than if I had phoned 911. … Life Alert got me help so fast, I scarcely had time to pack a few things for the ER.” — J in Pennsylvania
  • “The [dispatcher] told them the medications she was taking and all the things that was on the list we provided. Those things were very helpful. Thanks for all your help.” — W in Arizona
In-home safety
MobileHelp
Average monthly cost
$29.95
Mobile battery life
Over 24 hours
In-home range
1,400 feet
On-the-go options
Standard

We recommend MobileHelp for in-home safety because it offers one of the widest device ranges we've seen. The maximum range of its in-home unit is 1,400 feet, which is well above the 950-foot average of our top picks. The company also offers several GPS-enabled devices for on-the-go use. This large range makes MobileHelp a good choice for active users who spend lots of time in their yards or those who live in large homes.

Pros

  • Helpful customer support
  • Great in-home range
  • Good for active, on-the-go lifestyles
  • Low monthly pricing

Cons

  • A few complaints of slow response times
  • Can be difficult to cancel

The prices below, which are accurate as of the publishing date, are based on monthly plans, but those who opt to pay annually or semiannually will receive a discount. Customers who choose annual payments also receive a free lockbox to help emergency workers access your home. MobileHelp doesn’t charge for shipping and has no activation fees as of publishing.

  • Classic Cellular: This plan costs $24.95 a month as of publishing, and the in-home device has a range of 1,400 feet. It requires no landline and includes a waterproof help button.
  • Classic Landline: This plan costs $24.95 a month and requires no cellular hookup. The device has a range of 600 feet.
  • Solo: This plan costs $34.95 a month, employs GPS tracking for on-the-go use and includes a waterproof help button.
  • Micro: This plan costs $34.95 and offers the smallest MobileHelp device available. The device employs GPS tracking for on-the-go use and is waterproof.
  • Home Duo Bundle: This plan costs $44.95. The package includes an in-home unit, a mobile unit that employs GPS tracking for on-the-go use and a waterproof button that can be worn in the shower.
  • Mobile Duo Bundle: This plan costs $49.95 a month and includes two water-repellant GPS devices for on-the-go use.

MobileHelp also offers the following add-on options:

  • Fall Button: This device helps detect falls even if you’re unable to press your button. The Fall Button is available with Duo, Classic and Solo systems, and the cost is $11 per month as of publishing.
  • HB Waterproof Wall Button: This water-resistant wireless device works in high-risk areas like the bathroom or kitchen and costs $2.99 a month.
  • OnGuard Alerts: In addition to the standard emergency contact call that accompanies an alarm, this feature offers real-time text and email updates to contacts. It also lets you manage your contact preferences through an online portal or an app.
  • Pendants: MobileHelp offers a handful of additional pendants that can be worn around the neck or wrist. Pricing ranges from $2.99 to $5.50 a month.
  • Protection Plan: This feature covers the cost to replace lost, stolen or damaged equipment for $6.99 a month.
  • “My wife said she was comfortable with that small device that is very lightweight. The base station is in our living room and when MobileHelp tested the system the operator could hear my wife respond in the most distant place in our home from the base station.” — Robert in South Dakota
  • “Samantha was very helpful and kind. She explained everything to me and did not try to get us to order more than we needed. It was an easy call for something we've tried to put off for a long time. … The reviews online and the affordable cost is what we were drawn to and we are glad it is something we can afford for our mom.” — Lynda in North Carolina
  • “Hard to cancel this service. It is also typical to wait 20 to 30 minutes for someone to pick up the phone in customer service.” — Ellie in South Carolina
On-the-go use
Medical Alert
Average monthly cost
$39.35
Mobile battery life
Up to five days
In-home range
800 feet
On-the-go options
Standard, smartwatch

Medical Alert is our recommendation for on-the-go use because its devices are portable and provide reliable coverage over a wide range. ConsumerAffairs reviewers frequently mention being happy with how small and convenient Medical Alert devices are in comparison to bulkier products from other companies. All Medical Alert devices come with cellular connection or offer GPS options, and they operate anywhere AT&T cellular coverage is available.

Pros

  • GPS capabilities
  • Optional fall detection
  • Portable devices
  • Wide coverage area

Cons

  • Some upselling complaints
  • Unspecified satisfaction guarantee

Medical Alert offers four devices to choose from. All packages require a one-time $99.95 programming fee (except for the Smartwatch package, which carries a one-time fee of $159). You can add fall detection to any system for an extra $10 per month. A protection plan covering lost, damaged or stolen systems is available for an extra $5 per month.

The monthly prices for each system appear below. You can save on any of these systems by opting to pay annually instead.

  • Medical Alert Mobile Systems: Monthly fees are $42.95 for the Standard system and $47.95 for the Mini system. Both systems come with a waterproof button pendant or bracelet, a two-way speaker device, GPS location services and Connect app access.
  • Medical Alert Home Systems: The landline model costs $27.95 monthly, while the cellular version costs $37.95 monthly. This system includes a two-way speaker base and a lightweight device with a button that can be worn on the neck or wrist.
  • Smartwatch: This model costs $39.95 per month. The device is waterproof and includes GPS location tracking, voice prompts, heart rate monitoring and step tracking.
  • “My Medical Alert button is with me all the time and I have it dangling on my walker. It's just a necklace hanging on your neck, so there's no problem. It's comfortable and very lightweight.” — Dolores in Minnesota
  • I live alone now so I knew I needed the Medical Alert device because I walk my dogs in the woods. … I fell outside and it was 30 degrees. I cracked my shoulder and couldn't get up so the ambulance came for me because of Medical Alert.” — Wilda in New York
  • “Medical Alert has served me well. They have always been super nice and quick. The device has helped me several times. … If you're by yourself and you're handicapped or old, get it. It makes me feel safe.” — Helen from North Carolina
Risk-free option
LifeStation
Average monthly cost
$41.26
Mobiole battery life
Up to five days
In-home range
600 feet
On-the-go options
Standard, smartwatch, elegant pendant

We picked LifeStation as our risk-free option because it has one of the longer satisfaction guarantees in the industry. Unhappy LifeStation customers can return their device for a refund within 30 days of purchase. Most medical alert companies either offer 15-day trial periods or use terms like "satisfaction guaranteed" without specifying a return window in writing.

Pros

  • 30-day money-back guarantee
  • Optional fall detection
  • GPS available
  • Waterproof devices
  • No equipment fees

Cons

  • Some bulky devices
  • Upfront charges on certain models

Monthly costs are higher if you opt for fall detection or the protection plan. With the protection plan, LifeStation will replace your device if it stops working due to technical problems. You can also add an emergency lockbox with a house key for first responders for $2.95 per month as of publishing. Shipping costs $12.50 when you order online.

  • Sidekick Mobile: At 1.4 ounces, the Sidekick is lightweight and water-resistant. It comes with GPS and a battery that lasts up to five days when fully charged. There’s a $99.95 activation fee.
  • Sidekick Smart: LifeStation’s Sidekick Smart is a smartwatch designed for seniors. It can call for emergency help, track steps and monitor your heart rate. There’s a $99.95 activation fee.
  • Sidekick Home: The Sidekick Home has a 600-foot range and a backup battery that lasts up to 32 hours. There’s no activation fee.
  • “I keep my device right next to me, even when I get in the shower. I hang it on the shower door. It's great because it's a GPS thing. No matter what, LifeStation can find me, and that's what I need.” — Michael in South Carolina
  • “We only had the device for a month and the reps were great when we called to return it.” — Jennifer in Florida
  • “I used to have another medical alert service but it was really expensive. LifeStation is better. … It saved my life about five different times.” — Jewel in Missouri

Top Picks

See who reviewers like

Bay Alarm Medical logo
Life Alert logo
MobileHelp logo
See our top picks

Safe and Secure

Find the perfect medical alert system now.

Medical alert system buyers guide

Medical alert systems are devices that contact emergency assistance when activated. They are often made up of a base unit and an emergency help button, which can be worn on a lanyard or bracelet. However, some systems are contained entirely in the wearable device.

When activated, the system can connect you to a trained emergency response operator, relative or friend.

Medical alert systems are designed for use either at home or both at home and on the go. They can be monitored or unmonitored, come with or without fall detection features and connect to either home-based landline or cellular networks.

Key insights

Medical alert systems use radio transmitters to send signals to a monitoring center or emergency contacts, either through a base station or a mobile device.

Jump to insight

While there are upfront and potential monthly fees, a medical alert system is often significantly less expensive than the cost of assisted living facilities.

Jump to insight

When choosing a device, consider the user's needs and lifestyle, whether they need professional monitoring, their budget and where they'll use the system.

Jump to insight

How do medical alert systems work?

In a technical sense, medical alert devices generally use small radio transmitters to contact their base stations (if applicable), which use cellular or landline networks to connect with monitoring centers or emergency contacts.

In a more practical sense, here’s what you can expect when using a medical alert device:

  • Users generally wear a help button somewhere on their person at all times so they can signal for help when they need it.
  • If an emergency occurs, the user presses the button to signal for help. (Systems with fall detection may sense that help is needed without any signal.)
  • What happens next depends on whether your system is monitored or unmonitored:
    • Unmonitored systems should automatically reach out to a predetermined number (commonly either emergency services or the user’s emergency contact) to summon help.
    • Monitored systems generally route the user’s signal through a trained emergency operator, who talks to the user (if possible) and determines what type of assistance is required (caregiver, fire, police or medical) before calling for help. These operators usually stay on the line until help arrives.

Who should have a medical alert system?

Medical alert devices are often used by those at risk of serious falls (such as older people and those with injuries) or with medical conditions that can leave them unable to call for help when it’s needed.

If you or someone you love has an increased risk of needing emergency help, getting a medical alert system (sometimes called a personal emergency response system) may be worth the cost.

A medical alert system may be especially helpful if the intended user:

  • Lives alone or spends a great deal of time alone (older adults are more isolated than ever)
  • Has difficulty using a telephone
  • Has any form of dementia

About 25% of people age 65 or older fall every year, and roughly 10% of falls result in serious injuries. To determine your or your loved one’s fall risk, try answering a few questions from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Many medical alert devices also offer additional health or safety features that many people benefit from, including GPS tracking, medication reminders, weather notifications and caregiver aids. If any of these options appeal to you, be sure to keep them in mind as you shop for a medical alert device.

» RELATED: When should your aging parent wear a medical alert device?

Medical alert system costs

While medical alert systems vary in cost, the following fees are typical:

  • Equipment fees ranging up to $300 (if they’re not waived as part of your monitoring contract)
  • Monthly monitoring fees starting at about $20 to $60 per month without add-ons (like fall detection, which usually costs about $10 more per month)
  • Activation fees of up to $200, if applicable
  • Installation fees of up to $100, if applicable
A medical alert system can be a smart investment for anyone who lives alone.

Even though these costs may seem high, a medical alert system is often a smart investment, especially if it can delay a move to a long-term care facility.

If you prefer aging in place to other senior living options, products like medical alerts, walk-in bathtubs and hearing aids can make your home safer and more accessible as your needs change. The cost of aging in place is also relatively affordable compared with the cost of assisted living, which averages around $4,300 per month.

You can learn more about elder care planning by checking out our other buyers guides and resources.

Monitored vs. unmonitored medical alert system costs

  • Unmonitored systems generally cost a few hundred dollars upfront. You own the equipment, and there's no recurring monthly fee.
  • Monitoring systems have a recurring fee, usually between $20 and $60 per month, and some companies offer packages with free equipment if you have an active monitoring subscription. New customers often get a price break if they enroll in a monitoring contract with a yearly payment plan.

Does insurance cover medical alert systems?

While most types of health care coverage do not cover medical alert systems, there are some possible exceptions, like long-term care insurance, Medicare Part C and VA health care. Contact your insurance company or coverage provider directly to find out if help is available.

Does Medicare cover medical alert systems?

Medical alert systems are not covered by Medicare parts A or B or Medicare supplemental insurance. Some Medicare Advantage plans (also called Part C) may reimburse certain patient groups for the cost of a wearable device.

It’s also worth mentioning that ConsumerAffairs can’t direct buyers to Medicaid-eligible systems, and any brand you contact will typically refer you to your Medicaid caseworker for further guidance.

Alternatively, long-term care insurance may also provide reimbursement for medical alert systems.

How to save money on a medical alert system

  1. Look for discounts: Many companies offer senior, veteran or promotional discounts. You can also find seasonal sales or bundle deals.
  2. Choose unmonitored systems: If you don’t need 24/7 professional monitoring, an unmonitored system may save you money on monthly fees.
  3. Negotiate: Don’t be afraid to ask for waived fees or discounts when signing a contract.
  4. Consider a long-term contract: Some companies offer reduced rates for annual or multi-year contracts.
  5. Avoid unnecessary features: Only pay for features that are essential to your or your loved one's needs.

How to choose a medical alert system

According to Michelle Rankine, the owner of Right at Home in Lewisville, Texas, a care provider for older adults, one thing to consider when purchasing a medical alert system is your budget.

According to Dr. Rankine, when thinking about features you want in a medical alert system, also consider GPS monitoring, battery life, wearable options such as pendants or built-in watches, activity tracking and whether or not the alert system has app capability for family members to check in.

1. Think about who’s going to use the medical alert system

As you shop for a medical alert system, make sure it’s functional for the person who will be using it most, whether that’s you or your loved one. Think about:

  • How the intended user behaves during emergencies
  • How familiar they are with technology
  • How likely they are to consistently use the system
  • How appearance-conscious they are
  • Whether they spend most of their time at home or on the go

All of these factors can make a difference as you pick the right medical alert system for your situation. You don’t have to know exactly what you want from your device at this stage, but the point is that you keep the intended user in mind as you shop.

For example, the most common type of medical alert system includes a simple push-button pendant worn around the neck or on the wrist, which many people who aren't tech-savvy find easy to use.

If fashion or an active lifestyle is a priority, a medical alert smartwatch might be the right choice. These watches can offer the same response times as home-based systems while being discreet and easy to wear.

They’re also a good choice for those with dementia because authorized caregivers and first responders can potentially track the wearer via GPS if they wander. However, you should keep in mind that these devices may be more complicated for some people to use.

» READ MORE: 8 aging-in-place home modifications for seniors

2. Decide if you want professional monitoring services

Medical alert systems either operate without monitoring or with monitoring. Here’s how they differ:

  • Unmonitored systems: When triggered, an unmonitored system dials a preprogrammed contact — typically a loved one or 911. These systems are sometimes referred to as no-monthly-fee medical alert systems because they don’t require a service contract to function.
  • Monitored systems: A monitored system connects to a live dispatch center when triggered. The operator calls a caregiver, friend, family member or 911, depending on the user’s needs. Many centers provide help in multiple languages, and some include daily wellness checks and activity tracking.

Both monitored and unmonitored systems should include a panic button or an emergency call button, and many offer automatic fall detection.

Because monitored medical alert systems can offer tailored responses and additional services, they’re often a better option if you aren’t sure it’s time for assisted living but still want some extra sense of security.

3. Consider your budget and how you want to pay

Total medical alert costs vary based on the system you choose, how you customize that system, what kind of connection you need (landline or cellular) and whether you pay for ongoing monitoring.

Price is a significant factor, especially if you’re on a fixed budget. (About half of seniors rely on Social Security for the majority of their income, according to recent poverty statistics.) However, price shouldn’t be the only factor you consider. Your medical alert system needs to work reliably and be convenient enough that it’s ready to help when you or your loved one needs it most.

“Activation fees (for medical alert systems) will vary,” Rankine said. “One-time costs are about $200 and you can have a recurring fee of about $40 to $60 a month for monitoring.”

4. Think about where you’ll need it

Before you buy a system, think about whether you want the option to use the device outside your home. Most medical alert systems fall into one of two broad categories:

  • Home-based: Traditional, home-based systems come with a help button that wirelessly connects to a base station. Base stations can run on landline or cellular connections, and help buttons typically have an operating range of 300 to 1,400 feet from the base station. Even if the intended user doesn’t leave home much, it’s a good idea to pick a system with enough range to cover their property, yard included.
  • Mobile: On-the-go medical alert systems are designed for more active lifestyles that take users away from home. They usually come with built-in GPS or geofencing features that help emergency services locate the user if something bad happens while they’re out and about. However, the batteries have to be charged regularly, and mobile devices typically run on a cellular connection, so you should make sure the service is supported where you live.

In general, mobile systems have more impressive technology, but they also come with a higher price tag than traditional home-based systems. The extra cost is often worth it if you spend a lot of time out in the neighborhood, frequently run errands or make trips to visit with friends, though.

5. Compare devices and features

Generally, home-based medical alert systems come with a base unit and a help button you wear around your neck or on your wrist, but mobile systems and smartwatches are self-contained and work without a base station.

No matter which type of system you choose, it’s good to have a help button that can get wet — many accidents happen in or around the shower. Luckily, most medical alert companies manufacture waterproof or water-resistant devices.

Medical alert systems can offer a variety of features and capabilities beyond their basic functions, though. While you likely won’t need or want all of these features, it’s helpful to know what’s out there so that you don’t miss out on something that you would’ve wanted. Here are some additional features, equipment and factors to consider:

  • Automatic fall detection
  • GPS tracking
  • Wellness tools
  • Caregiver apps
  • A lockbox
  • Multilingual support
  • Battery lives
  • Two-way voice communication
  • Home temperature monitoring
  • Wall buttons
  • Spouse monitoring
6. Read the fine print

It’s important to read the fine print before opting into any monitoring contract — some companies charge high cancellation fees if you terminate services early. You should also look for a company that offers a price-lock guarantee to ensure the system stays affordable.

Here are some other terms to look for:

  • Contract requirement: Most systems require a monitoring agreement. Keep an eye out for long-term contracts that are hard to cancel. Our top picks have month-to-month options.
  • Free trial period: It’s great if you can try the system out in your home for at least a month before you commit. Otherwise, you might get stuck with a system that doesn’t really work for you.
  • Service network: If you're getting a cellular system, make sure it runs on a network you know to be reliable in your area. For instance, you might live in a neighborhood where AT&T or Verizon is preferable.
  • Warranty: A good manufacturer’s warranty means that you won’t have to pay out of pocket for repairs or replacements.
7. Compare your options and choose

Once you’ve done your research and you know what you want from a medical alert system, there’s little left to do other than weigh your options and pick one. As with any important purchase, it’s a good idea to read reviews and ask the right questions before buying, though.

Pros and cons of medical alert systems 

Medical alert systems have many benefits, but they also come with some potential drawbacks. Here’s a quick overview to help you decide if a medical alert system is the right choice for you or your loved one:

Pros

  • Quick access to emergency help
  • Peace of mind for family members and caregivers
  • Less expensive than assisted living options
  • Some systems offer advanced features (e.g., GPS tracking and fall detection)

Cons

  • Monthly monitoring fees can add up over time
  • Some systems may have a complex setup or require familiarity with technology
  • Some systems have limited functionality without cellular or landline connection
  • Devices can be cumbersome or not stylish enough for some users

FAQ

Are medical alert systems worth it?

If you’re concerned about making sure help is on the way when you or a loved one needs it most, a medical alert system is likely worth the cost. Receiving fast assistance in case of an emergency can be critical, and it can even save you money in the long run.

How long do medical alert system batteries last?

Battery lives can vary among systems. For home-based systems that are connected to power, backup batteries are often included, and these can last anywhere from hours to several days. Mobile systems require more regular charging but usually last at least one day.

How quick are medical alert system response times?

Response times for medical alert systems are typically less than one minute, with some monitoring centers responding in as little as 21 seconds.

Can you get a discount on a medical alert system for being an AARP member?

It’s common for medical alert companies to offer discounts and promotions, including for AARP members. For example, at the time of publishing, AARP members can get a 15% discount on Lifeline’s monthly service as well as free shipping and activation on a Lifeline medical alert system.

Are medical alert systems tax deductible?

The IRS doesn’t specifically itemize medical alert systems as eligible for tax deductions, but many medical expenses and aging-in-place home modifications are tax deductible. A tax professional can help you determine if you can deduct a medical alert system in your tax filings.

What medical conditions require a medical alert bracelet?

Medical alert bracelets, also called medical ID bracelets, are common for those with severe epilepsy, diabetes, serious drug or food allergies, or dementia. A medical alert bracelet is an identification tag that includes lifesaving information about any medical conditions that require immediate attention should the wearer be in distress and unable to speak.

These bracelets are wearable tags and are not to be confused with medical alert systems or devices, which can also be worn around the wrist. They're pieces of jewelry that inform emergency responders and medical professionals of certain medical conditions.

How can I help my loved one use their medical alert system?

While it’s often helpful to handle device and plan decisions for your loved one, it’s also important to keep your loved one informed about what’s going on and what to expect.

Once the system is ready to use, spend some time discussing the use of the system and how it works. Don’t forget to check in regularly to be sure your loved one is utilizing the system appropriately and remembers how and when to use it.

See our video on how to talk to your loved one about a medical alert device at the bottom of this page for more guidance and insights from reviewers that have been through this process.

» LEARN MORE: How to protect your aging parents at home

Why is a medical alert system better than a cellphone?

A medical alert is often safer than a cellphone for seniors. The help button might be more accessible during an emergency, especially in the shower or bath; if the user falls, has a sudden accident or otherwise needs medical assistance, they don’t have to worry about reaching a phone to call for help.

Why is a medical alert system better than a smart speaker?

While some voice assistants and smart speakers are able to dial 911 for you, their safety features generally end there. Unlike many medical alert systems, these devices usually don’t have:

  • Fall detection technology
  • Caregiver apps and benefits
  • Staff who are trained to determine what type of help is needed and dispatch it
  • Battery backups for when the power goes out

Methodology

To update our top picks, the ConsumerAffairs Research Team used a weighted scoring system that took into account both reviews from ConsumerAffairs users and specific company offerings we researched. We conducted sentence-by-sentence sentiment analysis of thousands of reviews on our site from Nov. 1, 2019, to Oct. 31, 2024, to identify the aspects people care about most — and which companies reviewers are happiest with for each aspect. For medical alerts, these included:

  • Staff
  • Customer service
  • Punctuality

We then carefully selected the most important features consumers should consider before choosing a medical alert device and researched these offerings at each company:

  • Average monthly price
  • Maximum range of in-home unit
  • On-the-go options
  • Satisfaction guarantee

The company with the highest score in each category’s uniquely weighted formula was given the “Our pick for” or “Best for” designation. In some cases where a single company received the top score across multiple categories, the company with the next-highest score was named the winner.

Not sure how to choose?

Get buying tips about Medical Alert Systems delivered to your inbox.

    By entering your email, you agree to sign up for consumer news, tips and giveaways from ConsumerAffairs. Unsubscribe at any time.

    Thanks for subscribing.

    You have successfully subscribed to our newsletter! Enjoy reading our tips and recommendations.

    Compare Top Medical Alert System Reviews

    Showing 10 of 25

    Want your company to be on this guide?

    Yes, continue
    Comparing

    ×