Better Alerts

Better Alerts is a smart technology system that alerts your chosen caregiver in case of an emergency. The company helps seniors keep their active lifestyle and sense of independence without fear of falling or being otherwise hurt. Unlike other systems that require landlines, Better Alerts relies on smartphones. It also has a free app for both Android and iOS systems.

Better Alerts works using either the Fitbit Versa or the Fitbit Ionic. The smartwatch connects using the free Better Alerts app. Then, using the web subscription, you can configure caregiver alerts for optimal safety.

Features include:

• Fall detection: If a fall is detected, Better Alerts sends a Google Maps link to the caregiver and any emergency contacts to alert them of the accident.
• Safe zone: You can set a range of 200, 300 or 400 yards or one mile from the user’s address. If the user leaves the set safe zone, the smartwatch sends a map location to the caregiver and emergency contacts. A live map locator will stay on until the user returns to the safe zone.
• Medicine reminders: Either the user or caregiver can set up a medication schedule. When it’s time for the user to take medication, their smartwatch vibrates and the display specifies which medication to take.

Better Alerts provides both email and text alerts for caregivers. Users can also be connected directly to 911 or an emergency center if need be.

Better Alerts has two web service plans: the Standard Plan and the Total Protection Plan. The Standard Plan has a monthly fee of $19.95. It includes:

• One-touch button to share GPS location with caregiver or emergency contacts
• Direct contact to 911 or emergency center with GPS location
• Activity reports for the caregiver to keep track of the user’s daily activities

The Total Protection Plan has a monthly fee of $29.99 and includes:

• All the features of the Standard Plan
• Fall detection with GPS location
• Medicine reminders
• Text and email alerts
• “Safe zone” with GPS

It’s important to remember that you’ll need either a Fitbit Versa or a Fitbit Ionic to use Better Alerts services. This might cost you between $180 and $230 unless you get a discount through Better Alerts.

If you or a loved one is concerned about fall risks, Better Alerts is a good company to consider. It lets caregivers watch over the user in a number of ways to ensure optimal safety. The main downside is that the caregiver needs a smartphone and the user needs a Fitbit Versa or a Fitbit Ionic smartwatch. These can be costly for some. There’s no contract, however; if you’re not happy, it’s easy to cancel.