The Best Medical Alert Systems & Devices 2022: Compare Top Brands
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With an aging population whose numbers grow greater with every passing year, healthcare needs are also growing. Having accessible first-responder care for this higher-risk demographic has become essential to society as a whole.
Nobody wants to imagine a senior in their life needing dire assistance and not receiving it, yet this could easily become reality. To ensure help is immediate, provide your loved one with one of the top-rated best medical alert systems & medical alert devices available.
Find out the pros, cons, price ranges, and noteworthy facts for each of these medical alert systems.
Top Companies Providing the Best Medical Alert Systems & Medical Alert Devices 2022
1. MobileHelp – Best Overall Medical Alert Systems and Devices
Pros of MobileHelp Medical Alert Systems and Devices:
- Touchscreen console available
- Standard GPS tracking and wireless voice
- Highly customizable packages
- Historical tracking of biometrics
- Telehealth platform
Cons of MobileHelp Medical Alert Systems and Devices:
- Fall detection not available for all devices
- No smartwatch option
- Extra charge for price lock guarantee
Affordable and customizable are just two reasons MobileHelp tops this list as the overall best medical alert system. MobileHelp calls Boca Raton, Florida, their home and has been providing health management services since 2006.
While they’ve been in business for under 20 years, don’t let their status as newcomers to the field fool you. They are true experts when it comes to offering the best medical alert systems & medical alert devices available today.
Users can purchase their medical alert systems to be stationary or portable, as well as tack on extras such as activity tracking and medication reminders. An added bonus on their touchscreen device is access to extra games and apps.
MobileHelp offers attractive packages for price-conscious consumers and special discounts can be found on their website. Currently, new customers can receive two free months plus half off fall detection. They offer a two-year price lock guarantee, but that comes at a cost of $5 extra per month.
Reliability of MobileHelp Medical Alert Systems and Devices: 5
When it comes to reliability, MobileHelp stands out among the competition offering the best medical alert systems & medical alert devices. Equipment features include water repellent technology and accurate GPS.
Connectivity options also include landline and cellular. Users have access to immediate care whether they’re at home or at the gym.
Portability of MobileHelp Medical Alert Systems and Devices: 4.8
There are several options, including a wearable button, available for customers who need a versatile system for when they’re away from home. In terms of portability, the only way to beat MobileHelp is to choose a system that also offers a smartwatch.
MobileHelp Remote Support: 4.8
MobileHelp offers 24/7 support that receives high marks from users as well as an app for caregivers so they can always track the activity and location of their loved ones. The touchscreen tablet includes a video camera for more personalized communication.
Cost of MobileHelp Medical Alert Systems and Devices: 4.5
As with most medical alert plans, MobileHelp’s annual plans offer the best value, but monthly plans affordably start at a reduced rate of $19.99 for the classic system. It’s not clear how long the reduced rate offer will last. Fall detection is an extra $10 per month.
Overall Score of MobileHelp Medical Alert Systems and Devices: 4.9
2. LifeFone – Best Medical Alert System Customer Satisfaction
Pros of LifeFone Medical Alert Systems and Devices:
- Detailed caregiver app
- Backup power source during outages
- Smallest alert devices on the market
- Reduced rate fall detection
- Low startup costs
Cons of LifeFone Medical Alert Systems and Devices:
- No smartwatch option
- Mobile app costs extra
- No caregiver app for in-home system
LifeFone was established in 1976, making them one of the oldest manufacturers of the best medical alert systems & medical alert devices in business.
LifeFone has garnered impressive customer service and support ratings for their quick response times and friendly representatives through the review site TrustPilot.
Plenty of information regarding their products and services can also be found throughout their website, making them the best customer care provider among their competition.
Reliability of LifeFone Medical Alert Systems and Devices: 4.7
Simple setup and easy monitoring through a landline and AT&T, as well as Verizon, provides for reliable service. Customer support is just a push-button away.
Portability of LifeFone Medical Alert Systems and Devices: 4.9
Touting the smallest devices on the market, LifeFone medical alert systems & medical alert devices offer easy transport for the user. They can be tucked away under clothing or worn as a pendant around the neck. The only thing LifeFone is missing is a smartwatch.
LifeFone Remote Support: 4.8
Customer Care is where LifeFone exceeds expectations. Their app provides a detailed picture of the user’s current and historical activities. They also offer extras such as daily check-in calls and medication reminders.
Cost of LifeFone Medical Alert Systems and Devices: 4.6
Monthly plans start at $24.95, placing LifeFone on the higher end of affordability. However, their fall detection is half the price of most competitors’ at an additional $5 per month.
If fall detection is a must-have, then the price point averages out. Also notable is the lack of upfront fees such as equipment activation.
Overall Score of LifeFone Medical Alert Systems and Devices: 4.7
See how LifeFone can help you.
3. Medical Guardian – Longest Medical Alert Range
Pros of Medical Guardian Medical Alert Systems and Devices:
- Longest range monitoring among competitors
- Easy wearability for users
- Customer care portal for caregivers
- Highly customizable plans and features
Cons of Medical Guardian Medical Alert Systems and Devices:
- Higher upfront costs
- Pricier basic plan
- No activity tracking
Based out of Philadelphia and founded in 2005, Medical Guardian is another relative newcomer to the field of best medical alert systems & medical alert devices, but don’t let this deter you. Their devices have an impressive range of up to 1,400 feet, giving them the longest range capabilities of any systems on the market.
One of the best benefits of Medical Guardian is that they won’t require you to sign on to a lengthy contract. They also offer free spouse monitoring with some products.
Reliability of Medical Guardian Medical Alert Systems and Devices: 4.8
Five-day battery life allows users a longer time before needing to charge their devices. Home devices come equipped with a 32-hour backup battery, making this system a great option for those who enjoy an active lifestyle and traveling.
Portability of Medical Guardian Medical Alert Systems and Devices: 4.6
Their best medical alert systems & medical alert devices are small enough that they can be worn discreetly under clothing.
Medical Guardian Remote Support: 4.9
The MyGuardian app allows easy access to user history and device status. History and other account information can also be reviewed on devices.
Cost of Medical Guardian Medical Alert Systems and Devices: 4.3
Monthly plans start at $27.95 per month, which is on the high end when you consider the added upfront costs for stepping into this system, but users can save by subscribing to annual plans. Fall detection adds an extra $10 to the plan.
Overall Score of Medical Guardian Medical Alert Systems and Devices: 4.6
Protect yourself with Medical Guardian.
4. Medical Care Alert – Best Medical Alert Systems and Devices for Travel
Pros of Medical Care Alert Systems and Devices:
- Highest rating of A+ with the Better Business Bureau
- Full GPS compatibility
- Long-lasting battery life
- Built-in cellular service that doesn’t utilize personal service
Cons of Medical Care Alert Systems and Devices:
- Less detailed app information for caregivers
- A small selection of devices
- No smartwatch option
- No wellness checks
Based in Michigan, Medical Care Alert started in the home security business before evolving into home automation as well as producing some of the best medical alert devices & medical alert devices on the market. They offer expert technological savvy and experience many other companies may lack.
Medical Care Alert’s portable device is small enough to be worn on clothing, and with its A-GPS abilities, it becomes the smartest device for those on the go. The at-home version supports two-way communication throughout the home.
Reliability of Medical Care Alert Systems and Devices: 4.6
Their travel device offers up to three days of battery life, and with the click of a button, users are automatically connected to a customer-friendly and medically certified support team. Based on BBB ratings, users seem to be overly satisfied with the services they receive from Medical Care Alert.
Portability of Medical Care Alert Systems and Devices: 4.8
Medical Care Alert offers smart GPS tracking and is compatible with AT&T and Verizon networks, offering a range of flexible options for users with active lifestyles.
While there is no smartwatch option here, by using a wrist or pendant button, users can utilize two-way communication through their landline or cellular plan.
Some of their best medical alert systems & medical alert devices come equipped with a wireless plan that is separate from the user’s personal wireless plan.
Medical Care Alert Remote Support: 4.5
While their best medical alert system & medical alert device is relatively simple, it is also easy to connect with EMT-certified support through the large help button. When it comes to remote support, Medical Care Alert has more than ample ability to service its customer base.
Cost of Medical Care Alert Systems and Devices: 4.4
While the lowest of their five available plans starts out at less than $1 a day, the portable system subscription is on the higher end at just over $35 per month. Additional fall detection support costs an extra $10.
Overall Score of Medical Care Alert Systems and Devices: 4.5
Choose Medical Care Alert today.
5. Bay Alarm Medical – Most Affordable Alert Systems and Devices
Pros of Bay Alarm Medical Alert Systems and Devices:
- Minimal startup costs
- SOS Smartwatch
- No hidden fees
Cons of Bay Alarm Medical Alert Systems and Devices:
- Support response slower than the competition
- Extra fee to use GPS button
- No wellness check
- No medication reminder
In business since 1946, Bay Alarm Medical is the only company offering the best medical alert systems & medical alert devices on this top-five list with an alert device specifically designed for use in cars.
With no required contract length and plans starting at just $19.95 per month, Bay Alarm Medical becomes the most affordable medical alert system on this list.
While the SOS smartwatch plan is an extra cost, it also comes with its own service, so the user does not have to also have a cellular device and plan.
Reliability of Bay Alarm Medical Alert Systems and Devices: 4.6
Subscribing to extras such as the GPS button is what makes the Bay Alarm Medical system reliable. Without extras, the devices become much more basic.
Portability of Bay Alarm Medical Alert Systems and Devices: 4.5
The SOS smartwatch is easily and comfortably worn around the user’s wrist. While fall detection doesn’t come with the SOS smartwatch, a fall detection pendant can be worn around the user’s neck to gain that additional security.
Bay Alarm Medical Remote Support: 4.5
The SOS button option alerts a dispatch center immediately and can also alert caregivers at the same time.
Cost of Bay Alarm Medical Alert Systems and Devices: 4.9
No activation fees, no required contracts, and low monthly costs make the best medical alert systems & medical alert devices offered by Bay Alarm Medical also some of the most attractive in terms of affordability.
When utilizing the SOS smartwatch, users get a lot of bang for their buck. Fall detection is the industry standard of $10 per month.
Overall Score of Bay Alarm Medical Alert Systems and Devices: 4.5
Find out more about Bay Alarm Medical.
6. Aloe Care Health – Best Remote Care
Pros of Aloe Health Care Medical Alert Systems and Devices:
- User-friendly mobile app
- Voice-activated hub
- High customer satisfaction
- Activity and environment tracker
Cons of Aloe Health Care Medical Alert Systems and Devices:
- High upfront costs
- Mobile devices on the larger side
- No wellness checks
- No spouse monitoring
- The system only supports English
Just missing the top-five best medical alert systems & medical alert devices list, Aloe Care Health still earns a shout-out.
With a standard voice-activated hub, the Aloe Care Health alert system can be used completely hands-free. Users aren’t required to have their device in hand should they need assistance, making this system the top of the line when it comes to remote care.
Another handy feature is that caregivers are also automatically alerted anytime a call is made.
Reliability of Aloe Health Care Medical Alert Systems and Devices: 4.5
Service options include a plan that doesn’t require a Wi-Fi connection for their best medical alert systems & medical alert devices to be operational.
Aloe Care Health goes the extra mile in terms of safety. Not only is the mobility of the user monitored, but they also provide monitoring of the temperature and air quality. These monitors can pick up volatile organic compounds as well as carbon dioxide.
Portability of Aloe Health Care Medical Alert Systems and Devices: 4.3
While their best medical alert systems & medical alert devices are considered to be completely portable, Aloe Health Care devices are on the larger side when compared to others available on the market. They score lower when comfort is compromised since the device is advertised as portable.
Aloe Health Care Remote Support: 4.8
Remote support is where Aloe Health Care scores the highest. While customer satisfaction is high among users, the voice activation feature alone makes this the best system for remote support.
Cost of Aloe Health Care Medical Alert Systems and Devices: 4.5
Users are required to purchase hardware to use on the system. With four plans available, the base plan starts at $24 per month. Fall detection is free with some plans.
Overall Score of Aloe Health Care Medical Alert Systems and Devices: 4.4
Aloe Health Care can help you.
7. RescueTouch – Best Medical Alert System and Device Communication Features
Pros of RescueTouch Medical Alert Systems and Devices:
- Easy and reliable two-way communication
- Plans include no monitoring
- Price lock guarantee
- Available fall detection
Cons of RescueTouch Medical Alert Systems and Devices:
- No device options
- Pricey plans
- No in-home monitoring
- Slow response times
- No caregiver app
While RescueTouch may have only one available medical alert device available, it still easily makes the list of best medical alert systems & medical alert devices.
It comes equipped with one benefit not seen in other devices, which is the handy Chit-Chat feature. Using this feature, two people can communicate from different parts of the home. One could be outside in the garden while the other is in the interior living areas.
Reliability of RescueTouch Medical Alert Systems and Devices: 4.2
Used as a portable device, this system reliably connects the user to the designated caregiver or support system they select. However, users reported some confusion about how to charge the device properly.
Without a home option, charging could become an issue for some users.
Portability of RescueTouch Medical Alert Systems and Devices: 4.9
RescueTouch gets a high score in terms of portability, and it isn’t because portable is their only option. The Chit-Chat feature allows calls to be made outside the home to emergency responders while still communicating in the home.
The device also has its own phone number, so concerned loved ones can call the device if the phone isn’t answered.
RescueTouch Remote Support: 4.3
Reviewers find the remote support to be less than stellar, perhaps because RescueHelp utilizes outside contractors for caller support services.
What’s great about this device compared to the other best medical alert systems & medical alert devices is you aren’t required to have a monitored plan. Instead, you can opt for an unmonitored plan that connects with a designated caregiver when help is required. This can simplify things for those who feel they don’t require a high degree of assistance.
Cost of RescueTouch Medical Alert Systems and Devices: 4.3
In terms of cost, RescueHelp doesn’t provide the most affordable plans, but they also aren’t exuberantly over-priced. With plans starting at $29 a month, you might want to try their offer of one month free before signing up.
Overall Score of RescueTouch Medical Alert Systems and Devices: 4.3
Is RescueTouch the best choice for you?
8. Medical Alert – Best Big-Company Medical Alert System and Device Support
Pros of MedicalAlert Systems and Devices:
- Affordable plans
- Connect America partner
- Bilingual support operators
- 5-day battery on mobile equipment
Cons of MedicalAlert Systems and Devices:
- No activity monitoring
- No spouse monitoring
- May be considered too basic for some users
Another medical alert company from Philadelphia makes the list. Medical Alert is a larger company whose services should not be overlooked.
Though they don’t offer a lot of the extra features that other smaller companies making the best medical alert systems & medical alert devices can offer, they do come with a basic plan and years of experience for the right price. If size and experience matter, Medical Alert could be your company.
Reliability of MedicalAlert Systems and Devices: 4.1
Medical Alert offers the same 24/7 monitoring and GPS capabilities that other companies offer, and for an extra $1 per month you get the added benefit of equipment coverage. If their equipment also offered activity monitoring, they’d score higher in this department.
Portability of MedicalAlert Systems and Devices: 4.3
Medical Alert offers two equipment options: the home system and the mobile system. Neither comes equipped with many features other than optional fall protection.
MedicalAlert Remote Support: 4.7
Because Medical Alert offers support in different languages, it scores high in the support department.
Cost of MedicalAlert Systems and Devices: 4.5
The cost for getting into one of the best medical alert systems & medical alert devices here is fairly average. Plans start at $22.95 per month without a lot of bang for your buck. Optional fall detection is an extra $10.
Overall Score of MedicalAlert Systems and Devices: 4.2
Honorable Mention:
While these companies didn’t make it into the detailed list, they are still worthy of a look by consumers who don’t find everything they need in the best medical alert systems & medical alert devices companies listed above:
How We Ranked the Medical Alert Systems and Devices
While there are numerous alert devices and monitoring systems available to consumers, by looking at the value each system offers in terms of hardware, functionality, access to support, and affordability, we were able to rank the top systems.
Also considered were:
- Costs to start plan
- Available add-ons
- Battery longevity for portable devices
- Ease of use
By combining all criteria, the best available systems were determined using a 5-point scoring system. All the best medical alert systems & medical alert devices rated on this list are considered to be at the top of their class.
Buying Guide to the Best Medical Alert Systems & Medical Alert Devices
These FAQs can help consumers make informed decisions when it comes to determining which medical alert system will work best for their situation.
In What Situations Might I Need One of the Best Medical Alert Devices?
Anyone who might need assistance accomplishing their daily tasks or has an existing medical concern would benefit from a medical alert device and monitoring system.
If you or your loved one lives alone or spends long periods alone during the day, and has a medical history that puts you at high risk of falls or other emergency situations, then purchasing one of the best medical alert systems & medical alert devices can offer everyone in your life added peace of mind.
What Do the Best Medical Alert Systems and Devices Offer?
The primary benefit these systems offer is a connection to assistance or help, whether that help comes through two-way communication with loved ones or immediate access to emergency responders.
The secondary benefit they offer is peace of mind for you and your loved ones. Many of the best medical alert systems & medical alert devices come with extras, including activity monitors and historical activity analysis.. For best results, alert devices should be worn by or accessible to the user at all times.
Are the Best Medical Alert Systems Designed for Seniors?
While the popularity of medical alert devices stems from the benefits their monitoring systems provide to the older population, they are not solely for seniors.
Anyone who could experience a medical emergency would benefit from using a medical alert device, regardless of age.
Do the Best Medical Alert Systems Require a Landline or Cellular Service?
Each company is different in terms of offering a convenient package that meets your situation. Not all plans will require a landline, and most do not require cellular service.
In fact, some medical alert systems require neither because they either utilize their own wireless plan or utilize GPS technology.
If I’m Not High Risk, Do I Still Need a Device?
If you’re not high risk but it’s possible you could still require quick access to help, then there is no reason to not get one of the best medical alert systems & medical alert devices on this list.
If you’ve considered that you might need a medical alert device, having one could ease any anxiety you feel when alone in your home. This is a decision you might want to discuss with your family so everyone can come to an informed conclusion as to whether a medical alert system and device are right for you.
How Do I Choose the Best Medical Alert System and Device for My Situation?
Choosing from the best medical alert systems & medical alert devices is a decision that shouldn’t be made lightly. Decide what is most important to you and your loved ones in terms of functionality and features in the medical alert system.
It could be access to customer support, or it could be caregiver monitoring. The right answer won’t be the same for all situations. Affordability also often plays a vital role in determining which system works best for you.
Top 5 Best Medical Alert Systems and Devices Comparison
- Best feature: GPS tracking
- Plan price range: $19.95-54.95 per month
- Equipment and plans: MobileHelp offers one of the widest ranges of equipment options to meet your needs.
- Connectivity options: Landline, cellular, GPS
- Best feature: 16 day battery on VIPx equipment
- Plan price range: $24.95-41.95 per month
- Equipment and plans: Limited equipment options
- Connectivity options: Landline, cellular, GPS
- Best feature: MyGuardian care circle app
- Plan price range: Starting at $27.95 with additional add-ons available
- Equipment and plans: 3 portable options and 2 at-home options
- Connectivity options: Landline, cellular, GPS
- Best feature: 24/7 access to EMT/EMD certified operators
- Plan price range: $27.45-36.62 per month with additional add ons available
- Equipment and plans: 2 equipment options: at-home or away.
- Connectivity options: Landline, cellular, GPS
- Best feature: Bundle plans
- Plan price range: $19.95-$39.95 per month
- Equipment and plans: Limited equipment choices but SOS Smartwatch is a nice option.
- Connectivity options: Landline, cellular, GPS
Final Thoughts Regarding the Best Medical Alert Systems & Medical Alert Devices
With so many systems, plans, and equipment options to choose from, narrowing down the field of the best medical alert systems & medical alert devices can be a challenge. MobileHelp is strongly recommended, but LifeFone comes in at a close second.
Great plans can be obtained for those on a tight budget. Having the most reliable equipment combined with a plan that fits your lifestyle gives you and everyone you love added assurance that your medical emergency needs will not only be met in a timely fashion but be backed by professional and caring 24/7 support.
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Kire Stojkovski is a practicing medical doctor whose work has been published in some of the most respected medical journals.
Daniel Boyer is a practicing Doctor of medicine with a passion for medical research. He specializes in molecular biology, histology, and pharmacology.