Medical Alert Systems Blog and Resources

Many humans desire to be independent. You may want to be able to live your life on your own terms. No matter your age or ability, independence remains important. As with choosing the best home insurance for seniors, there's more than just the benefit of security. Medical alert systems help older individuals stay independent and give their loved one's peace of mind in spite of potential emergencies.  There are many companies that offer medical alert systems with a wide range of prices, so it can be difficult to choose the best option for your situation. This article will break down those medical alert systems and help you decide on the best options for you and your family.    Medical Guardian Medical Guardian is the top-rated medical alert company of 2019 with the highest consumer rating and overall score on BestCompany.com. Since 2005, the company has been the best in the fall detection area — one of the most important functions of a medical alert system. Medical Guardian’s system also has no activation or equipment fees, making its system one of the most affordable on the market. Some of the best qualities of Medical Guardian’s medical alert system are the base station, the wearable emergency button, and two-way communication. Perhaps the most unique part of the system is the ability to operate on a cellular network. If your loved one wants to go to the store but is worried about a fall, Medical Guardian can provide mobile coverage with on-the-go medical alert systems for active individuals.  The company also offers a lifetime warranty in case of any malfunctions. At an agreeable price of $29.99–$45.99 per month, Medical Guardian is an affordable option, and more importantly, a reliable company. Reaching in the thousands, positive Medical Guardian reviews prove that the company is trusted and appreciated by its customers.     MobileHelp With a high overall score from BestCompany.com, MobileHelp has a great reputation and high ratings from consumers. The company offers low monthly fees starting at $19.95 per month and its service comes with no equipment fees, no activation fees, no long-term contracts, and a lifetime warranty on all equipment. The customer service at MobileHelp is renowned for its help, but the downside is the system is limited only to areas in which AT&T has cellular service. This can be troublesome if you’re in a bad service area. MobileHelp’s Mobile Duo offer, which is a two-for-the-price-of-one GPS alert system, is also a great option. The company offers a 30-day money-back guarantee on all products, which may make choosing MobileHelp completely risk-free. MobileHelp reviews highlight the company as an exceptional company with quality medical alert equipment, helpful customer service, and quick response times.  LifeStation A long-running company since 1977, LifeStation gives families a sense of safety at the right price. Along with a solid 1,000-foot range for a monthly price of $19.95, the company offers free activation, no equipment fees, and requires no contract. The biggest positive of LifeStation is the variety of plans it has. At many different prices, you can choose what you actually need, customizing your medical alert plan to best fit your unique situation. An additional positive to LifeStation is its compatibility with Amazon Alexa devices. This gives your family even more functions to take advantage of, such as hands-free alerts. The downside to LifeStation is you have to pay an additional fee for extra alert buttons and fall detection. However, the fees are minimal and won’t significantly raise your monthly cost. LifeStation reviews make it clear that the minimal extra fees are not a problem and the company’s excellent customer service, quick response times, and quality medical alert equipment are definitely worth the cost. Medical Alert Medical Alert works under Connect America and is one of the largest providers of personal emergency response systems in the nation. Medical Alert also provides one of the best automatic fall detection systems as vouched for in hundreds of positive reviews. This is seen in Medical Alert's satisfactory score from BestCompany.com and experienced customers. Medical Alert’s system sends alert emergency dispatchers even if the alert button is not pressed. This is an essential component in medical alert systems for many consumers who want to make sure their loved ones do not have to press a button themselves to ensure their safety. The fall detection button detects a fall and alerts medical alert responders without the user having to do anything. Medical Alert also offers 24/7 customer service for any problems you may experience. Its products are lighter than most and are waterproof, which enables users to wear the medical alert button in places where falls often happen, such as the bathroom. Starting around $27.49 per month, Medical Alert’s downside is its range to the base. At only 600 feet, it can be easy to get out of range. Medical Alert is best for older adults looking for coverage specifically around the home. Medical Alert reviews note quick response times, a helpful staff, and quality equipment that provides peace of mind to customers and their families. Medical Care Alert Started in Michigan 11 years ago, the Medical Care Alert company provides a reliable system at a competitive price. Its services include a 30-day risk-free trial and a price-lock guarantee. The company offers a lifetime warranty with its products built by BOSCH Healthcare Solutions, one of the most well-known medical technology builders in the world. The company's goal since it began has been to make the best quality medical alert monitoring equipment. If you and your family are looking for well-built systems, Medical Care Alert may be a good fit. Some cons to its product are additional fees for automatic fall detection as well as warranty limitations. There is a lot of fine print when it comes to the warranty, so if you like everything else about Medical Care Alert, be sure to check what the warranty covers. The Bottom Line Medical alert systems save countless lives. They provide automatic fall detection and many other features that ensure a great deal of comfort for your loved ones. Independence is important for a healthy mind, so choosing the right alert system is an integral part of staying independent. Whether you choose the best-rated company or the cheapest monthly payment, all these companies are designed to provide a needed and appreciated service. Be sure to check the warranty, know what you’re buying, and research the perks of each company’s system. Knowing the facts, pros, and cons of each company will give you the safety net you need at a price you can afford. Guest Post by Ethan Lichtenberg Ethan Lichtenberg is a freelance writer for ExpertInsuranceReviews.com. He would love to say that he’s at the beach writing on a leather-bound notebook listening to Bob Dylan, but really he’s on his first cup of joe with too much cream and has Shark Week playing in the background. That should tell you all you need to know.

Pleasant Grove, UT - January 7, 2019 - Medical Guardian has been named the 2019 Consumer's Choice Award recipient in the medical alerts industry by BestCompany.com, an independent consumer review site. Medical Guardian was selected to receive this recognition from among 83 other medical alert companies based on a comprehensive market index score and the feedback of verified customers through reviews. "We wish to recognize Medical Guardian with the Consumer's Choice Award for 2019. They've earned it,” said BestCompany.com CEO Landon Taylor. “Our hope is that this recognition will highlight a company that is doing business the right way by taking care of its customers and always looking for ways in which it can improve." Medical Guardian distinguished itself from its competitors by offering affordable prices, innovative products, around-the-clock monitoring, and top-notch customer service. That, combined with an extremely high customer review score of 4.5 out of 5 based on more than 6,800 real customer reviews, propelled Medical Guardian to an impressive overall score of 9.3 out of 10, the highest in the industry. “We are honored to be recognized with the 2019 Consumer’s Choice Award in the Medical Alert Systems industry,” said Geoff Gross, Founder and CEO of Medical Guardian. “As we empower older adults to live a life without limits, it is our goal to go above and beyond for our customers every single day and provide the care and service they need, whenever they need it. This win reinforces and reaffirms our commitment to providing exceptional products, services, and support to our customers and their families.” To read consumer reviews for the top-rated medical alert systems provider, view Medical Guardian's profile on bestcompany.com. For additional information and comparisons, access the full list of medical alert companies considered for this award, as well as their respective scores and customer reviews. About Medical Guardian Founded in 2005, Medical Guardian is a leading provider of innovative medical alert systems that empower people to live a life without limits. Medical Guardian is headquartered in Philadelphia and provides support to more than 125,000 people across the country who are ready to take on the next chapter of life while remaining safe living in their own home. Whether it’s an in-home system, mobile device with GPS/Wi-Fi capabilities, or an all-in-one wearable medical alert smartwatch, Medical Guardian has the personal medical alert device to meet an array of needs and lifestyles. Learn more about Medical Guardian by visiting www.medicalguardian.com and following on LinkedIn, Twitter, and Facebook.   About BestCompany.com BestCompany.com ranks and reviews companies across hundreds of different industries. Unlike many other review sites, companies listed on BestCompany.com cannot buy their position, nor is a company’s ranking manipulated or inflated by BestCompany.com for financial gain. Instead, a company’s ranking is based on BestCompany.com’s proprietary Best Rank algorithm, which is powered by verified customer reviews and an objective set of ranking criteria. For more information on how BestCompany.com scores and ranks companies, please visit the How We Rank page.

Saving for retirement is no simple task; not to mention responsibly handling your savings once you retire. Experts advise people to have at least 80 percent of their pre-retirement income if they want to sustain their lifestyle. Unfortunately, the average social security benefit for retired workers is only $1,409.91 per month as of March 2018. It is primarily up to you to build your retirement savings as well as manage that money as frugally as you can to make sure it lasts until the end of your life. It can be tough to think of ways to be frugal with your money, especially if you are retired and want to take this time in your life to relax. Well, don’t worry.You don’t have to brainstorm by yourself. We reached out to retirement experts to share their best tips for practicing frugality in retirement. The good news? The tips are all things you can begin doing right away. By the end of this article, you’ll know how to be frugal with your money and be fully prepared to make your retirement savings last. Grocery shop smart Raised by a mom who survived the Great Depression, repurposing, reusing, recycling and frequently “making do” has always been a part of my DNA. As such, these ideas have served us well.  Retired from a second career six months ago, I've kicked up my frugality into high gear. With just my husband and me, I now separate large packages of meat into two, even three, separate packages depending on the size. For example, a package of six pork chops is broken into two packages of three. A chop a piece, plus a starch and vegetable is plenty. The third one serves as an after dinner snack for my husband.  Purchasing hygiene items, soap, and razors at the dollar store often saves nearly as much as a dollar on some items. Purchasing paper goods (toilet paper, tissues, paper towels) at Sam’s Club lasts us nearly three months. I purchase paper towels with a perforation. A half sheet is plenty for hands and wiping up. I use paper towels instead of paper napkins. — Carol Gee, Author Limit eating out In the context of frugality, spending less money does not mean there are fewer benefits. In fact, frugal people manage to find ways to spend less money and get more profit at the same time.For instance, the advantage of making your own food at home goes beyond saving money; eating at home not only makes it cheaper, but it is healthier. Buying a smaller house costs less, but at the same time maintenance, lighting and electricity are less expensive. It also takes less time to clean and maintain, which gives you more time for other activities. Always invest in your savings first It is important to establish priorities from the start. For instance, before paying the mortgage, the services or any invoice, the frugal ones pay themselves first. It means investing in a savings fund or other savings accounts first, then paying other bills using the money that remains. Most people pay their bills in the first place and save the ‘spare’ money.Investing is the most important priority for frugal people, and they take care of it. If there is not enough money to pay the bills, then they will find ways to reduce their expenses or make their accounts smaller so that they can finance their savings and investment goals. — Sophie Miles, CEO & Co-founder of CalculatorBuddy.com Be systematic with money withdrawals Withdraw money systematically. Regulated monthly withdrawals will stop you from missing bills and help you stay on top of your grocery shopping and other expenses, avoiding any financial surprises down the road. Practice flexibility One of the best ways to live frugally in retirement is by not making yourself feel like you’re missing out. Put some extra money into your budget to allow you to buy that Starbucks coffee or treat yourself to an expensive gift every once in a while. Take care of your health A usually overlooked way to manage your finances is by staying on top of your health. Use your money wisely. It's worth investing in workout groups, or even just walking regularly, in order to save money down the line on exorbitant medical expenses. Do activities in moderation You don’t have to give up your nights eating dinner out at nice restaurants, or visits to the opera. Just reduce the frequency of your outings to keep enjoying life but saving where you can. It’s all about moderation when it comes to living frugally. — Caleb Backe, Health and Wellness Expert for MapleHolistics.com Take trips less frequently Most people believe that when they retire, they are finally free to take all of the exotic trips and getaways they have dreamed of. Unfortunately, because of the relatively fixed spending that retirement savings allow, this may not be the case. Instead of regular trips, consider instead going on an adventure every three or even four years. In the time between those big trips, consider doing things close to home, like retreats to nearby beaches or other less costly vacations. Make a list of must-visit spots domestically and progressively make your way around to all of them. Use public transportation It’s no secret that age can impair driving abilities and as people get older, the likes of night driving or long travel may seem unappealing. To save money, consider using public transportation instead of cars. For those with multiple vehicles, you can even consider selling one. This will cut gas and maintenance expenses and it is a simple way to live frugally and receive multiple benefits. Plan out weekly meals Taking time to search for deals is important at any stage in life but using this approach to grocery shop in retirement can be particularly beneficial. With an array of discounts and deals available in weekly circulars, take time to find markdowns on the things you are hoping to buy. It is even possible to hold off on buying certain items until they are on sale for even greater weekly savings. Look for senior discounts Though the age required to receive these discounts may vary from company to company, taking advantage of senior discounts is one way to cut costs. The reduction may be only 5-10% but overtime and when used on big ticket items, they can make for significant savings. Before making large purchases or even everyday ones, consider checking ahead of time to see what businesses offer discounts that can be taken advantage of. — Doug Keller, Community Manager/Personal Finance Expert Credit Analyst, Yvette Glover, from FitSmallBusiness.com echoes Keller's thoughts that senior discounts can make a big difference. "While not all vendors will advertise them, most provide discounted prices to seniors. Therefore, retirees needn't be shy about asking for any. At the end of the day, it's essential for retirees to not treat his or her savings like a wind-fall of available cash." Cut down on cable bills The average person pays $105 per month for cable. Many people pay closer to $200, as promo deals expire and costs rise quickly. This can be devastating when living on a fixed income. Rather than pay for cable, I recommend retirees cut the cord, where they can end up saving anywhere from $50-100 per month. First, an antenna can get the majority of people the major broadcast networks for free. Then a service like Sling TV will allow them to stream other channels they watch, such as CNN or FOX News, for as little as $25 a month. If they're Amazon Prime members, they already get free access to a load of shows on demand. And there are tons of free shows on YouTube and the Roku channel, among others, that can be watched on your TV with a Roku stick or similar device. — Chris Brantner, Founder of StreamingObserver.com Avoid impulse buying When in retirement, you have to remember that impulse buying is not your friend. During working years, we’re all guilty of picking up what we want, but retirement has to bring on a different mindset. Prior to retirement, think about some of the luxuries you enjoy but know you could live without, even though you truly get pleasure from them. Take magazines for example. They are very expensive in the grocery stores, however there are other ways to purchase them without paying full retail. The big box stores sell magazines for 30 percent off. Another way to receive them is through fundraisers. The kids for their band boosters are always trying to sell something and what they sell are usually items not needed for daily consumption. Magazines are always a big seller for them and the cost for you is pennies on the dollar. Search for the cheapest gas prices Gas prices are through the roof. Shop around, use the GasBuddy app before you fill up. The app will tell you who has the cheapest gas within miles of where you are. This type of thinking can save you hundreds of dollars every year and allow you to still enjoy things that you did while you were working. Remember, you’re retired; you have the time. — Dawn-Marie Joseph, Founder of Estate Planning & Preservation Think about starting an easy work-at-home job for extra income With more than half of American households owning at least one dog, older folks throughout the country are turning to a fun, flexible service to supplement income during retirement. Rover.com, the nation's largest network of loving and trustworthy dog sitters and walkers, connects pet parents with locals that are willing to provide in-home care and walks for pups, while their owners are away or at work. For example, Kathy & Craig Chastain, from Seattle, are using Rover.com to earn extra retirement savings. They explain:When we first began caring for fur buddies our intention was to supplement our retirement so that neither of us would have to seek outside income to assure our comfort zone. We both were starting to really enjoy being retired but both too active to do nothing.We launched our pet care gig with a family friend who entrusted us with their pup for a weekend. It wasn’t long before we had a small roster of clients. Enter Rover.com. Instantly, we had a foundation for growth and support that offered scheduling, insurance, bookkeeping, marketing and more.The income we've earned through Rover has matched and exceeded most anything available for seniors these days and it’s allowed us to keep our savings and retirement funds intact.Retirees throughout the U.S. are using Rover, and other side gigs, casually to bolster their retirement savings, so they can have more freedom. — Kathy & Craig Chastain, Retirees Look for additional ways to reduce the cost of your lifestyle Look for ways to reduce the cost of your lifestyle, so that your expenses are less than the income your investments and pension(s) provide. For example, try walking in your neighborhood as opposed to joining a gym. Start a garden in your backyard that produces vegetables during the summer months. Shop at secondhand clothing shops in affluent neighborhoods. The savings from even minor tweaks to your habits will accumulate significantly over time. And don't wait for retirement to start putting these changes into place. Start adjusting your mindset sooner, rather than later, to ensure the most comfortable retirement possible down the road. — Adham Sbeih, CEO & Co-founder of SocotraCapital.com Look into government and non-profit organizations Don’t ever be too proud to ask for help. There are numerous organizations and resources that can make retiring less stressful. From free activities in your local community center to benefits programs, there is something out there for everyone. — Chelsea Hudson, Personal Finance Expert at TopCashback.com Consider downsizing Reduce or even eliminate your mortgage if at all possible. Additionally, consider downsizing to a lower-cost home or area. — Caleb Backe, Certifed Life Coach and Business Consultant for Maple Holistics Downsizing is a great way to make some extra cash and ultimately save money. Smaller homes are less expensive to buy and maintain. Don’t forget location is key, so move somewhere where you can walk to shopping and entertainment. Sell or donate household items that are no longer needed to make downsizing and moving a breeze. If downsizing your home is not for you, then consider renting out a room to bring in some extra money a month. — Chelsea Hudson, Personal Finance Expert at TopCashback.com Use Apps to Manage Your Money There's a lot of new technology for managing savings, even retirement, on your own. Take the DIY approach and research apps that help you manage your retirement savings without the high cost of a financial advisor. Just make sure the app you choose is backed by great security and--if you're actually using it to save--FDIC insured. — Bethy Hardeman, Personal Finance Expert at Tally  Whether you make small changes or big, start now so you can avoid running into money problems down the road. You’ve worked hard for many years; you deserve to relax without having to stress about money. Being frugal can give you peace of mind that your retirement is secure. Start Planning Early Even if you're not yet retired, start planning now and practicing frugal living. Retirement can sneak up on you, and you want to be as prepared as possible. Use resources like 401k calculators to plan out the amount you'll need in retirement to live comfortably. This will take into account your current age, your annual salary, your current 401(k) balance, etc. This will give you insight into your retirement numbers and if you're on track or if you need to increase your savings to meet your desired retirement fund. 

Injuries from falls are the leading cause of death among seniors 65 and older. Thankfully, industry leaders such as Medical Guardian provide medical alert devices that allow you to call for help immediately in the case of a fall or another emergency. But how do you know if it's time for you or your loved one to get a medical alert device? Age, illness, medication, and family circumstances are all factors you should consider when determining whether to get a medical alert system. We created to quiz below to help you decide.

Do you have an elderly loved one with mobility issues? Over a third of adults over the age of 65 will experience a debilitating fall. Sometimes, these falls aren't serious, and other times, they can be deadly. As adults continue to age, their bodies aren't as resilient, so a fall can seriously damage their bones and joints. Although Life Alert and its famous "I've fallen and I can't get up" commercials have a place in pop culture, there are actually many medical alert companies to choose from. Here's everything you need to know before you choose a medical alert system:  Prices Prices will vary depending on the provider and the system. However, the average price for a basic in-home medical system with a wireless medical alert pendant is around $30 per month. A mobile medical alert system with GPS functionality will likely cost over $40 per month. You can read more about these systems in the Equipment features section. Watch out for installation or activation fees. Some companies love to tack these on. If a company wants to charge hundreds of dollars for a professional to come to your home and install a system, move on to the next company. The best medical alert systems are ready to go as soon as you plug them in and don't cost extra to install. Contracts Most medical alert companies will operate on month-to-month contracts, so you shouldn't have to worry about agreeing to a long-term contract. Some older companies such as Life Alert will have you sign a long-term contract before providing services, but this is rare. If you're confident you can pay the monthly fee for the duration of the contract, a contract could be fine, but if you move or decide you don't need the system anymore, you could be charged hundreds to buy out of your contract. Equipment features Every medical alert system essentially operates in the same way. The pendant you carry (or wear) communicates with a base unit. When you press the button on the medical alert pendant, it sends a signal to the base unit that relays that signal to a remote monitoring station. A representative at the monitoring station can then contact you through a microphone and speaker on the base unit and dispatch help if needed. Range The range of an in-home medical alert system varies depending on the system and company. Medical Guardian's basic in-home system, for example, has a range of 1300 feet. This is impressively long — you shouldn't have to worry if you have a large property and want to roam the yard or go on a short walk. However, do take into account that many things can inhibit a system's ability to operate at full range. Depending on what material your house is made of, the signal between the pendant and the base station will have a harder time traveling. For example, if you're out in the yard and there are several walls between your pendant and the base station, the signal won't reach as far. Also, if the interior walls are dense, the signal might not reach the full length as well. Some companies take this into account when marking their pendant range. Some might say that the pendant only extends 300 feet from the base station, but if you live in a small condo with few walls, that shouldn't be a problem. If you live on an estate with a large yard, you'll want to go with the 1300 foot system, or better yet, a mobile GPS system. Mobile vs. in-home medical An in-home medical alert system has a base unit that plugs into a wall and a pendant that communicates wirelessly at long ranges. With a mobile GPS alert unit, you can take the base unit anywhere. Usually, it's the size of a deck of cards and can fit in your pocket. There's still a pendant or bracelet you can wear and press a button if you experience an emergency, but the biggest difference is that you can take this unit anywhere. If you charge it every day or two, you can keep it on your person without worrying about it running out of battery power. If you press the alert button, emergency responders will know exactly where to find you because the small base unit will send a GPS signal pinpointing your exact location. Be aware that these units always cost a little more money. Expect to pay at least $40-50 per month for a mobile unit. However, if you're an active senior who loves to go on walks or bike rides, this system is indispensable. Warranties Most top-rated medical alert companies will have lifetime warranties on their equipment. If equipment malfunctions or breaks through no fault of your own, they'll replace it without any hassle. This includes your pendant, base station, mobile GPS unit, etc. Make sure to ask your medical alert companies about warranties before you buy any system. Other things to know Some home security companies offer medical alert pendants as an add-on. If you're already with a home security company like ADT or MONI Smart Home, call a representative and ask about this service. Some companies such as Live Life Alarms offer medical alert systems with one upfront cost, and that's it. No monthly fee. These systems are usually pre-programmed to contact a handful of phone numbers of your choosing, including neighbors or family members. The systems then contact these people if the emergency button is pressed. This means no monthly monitoring fee, but no professional medical help as well (unless you're allowed to pre-program 911 into the system). You can find the list of the best medical alert companies right here on Best Company.

Medical alert systems have come a long way since their early days in the 1970s. A medical alert system used to be just a device that would automatically dial a preset phone number when you pressed a panic button. Now technological advancements have given medical alert systems many more functions like fall detection and GPS location tracking. So, what does the future hold? Here are some ways that companies are making strides to bring medical alert systems into the future: GPS-based systems These have become fairly commonplace among many medical alert companies. These systems operate on cellular GPS signals in order to pinpoint someone's location. GPS-based systems need to be recharged on a daily basis because the base unit is portable — usually the size of a deck of cards. You carry the base unit and the emergency button with you at all times. Companies such as MobileHelp have chosen to specialize in these sorts of medical alert systems that cater to adults with healthy, active lifestyles. Classic medical alert models operate on a landline connection to get you in touch with emergency personnel. These systems are still widely being sold and will probably have their place until a more technologically-savvy generation grows older and needs medical alert systems. GPS-based systems are also slightly easier to install. You should only have to plug in the system and it's ready to go. Mobile apps Some companies feature apps that you can download to your mobile phone that then functions as a sort of medical alert system. This is a convenient and inexpensive way to make a medical alert system work for you, but there are a few limitations with it: Are you smartphone savvy? Many elderly folks simply aren't. A complicated smartphone could be overwhelming for someone who just wants a simple push-button wristband or pendant. The process of unlocking the phone and opening an app is much more complicated than pushing a help button. What is your current data plan? Mobile phones must have GPS locating capabilities to be fully functional as a medical alert device. These devices must have a robust data plan that can track your phone 24/7 without causing overages. A normal flip phone probably won't have these capabilities. Is the app reliable? This depends on the company and the designer. Talk to a company representative about what mobile apps they offer. Look them up on the app store, and pay attention to what current customers have said about their reliability and usability. Currently, GreatCall is a company that specializes in specific medical alert/cell phone devices. The cell phones operate as medical alert devices that have to be attached to one of the company's data plans. This could be convenient for seniors who want to bundle their cell phone and medical alert system, so more manufacturers might start doing the same thing in the future. Smart Watches At the 2018 Consumer Electronics Show, Medical Guardian debuted a new device called the Freedom Guardian, which is a smartwatch designed for seniors who want a portable medical alert system. Not only does it function as a medical alarm in case of a fall, but you can also set reminders for medication or calendar events along with sending and receiving text messages. With text messaging, the device will send you the message and can read it aloud to you, as well as translate voice into text. One of the best parts is that the device looks similar to your average Apple Watch. In the technological world, smartwatches are still relatively new, so we have yet to see other companies come forward with devices such as a medical alert-focused smartwatch. However, this may change as the industry continues to progress and grow. As baby boomers and other technologically-savvy seniors grow older, smartwatches will probably become more popular. In order to take a look at the best medical alert companies in the industry, visit our handy guide at Best Company.

Medical alert systems are a great way to provide peace and security for an elderly loved one who wants to live independently; however, with technology progressing so rapidly, it can be easy to lose track of what kinds of systems are available. In the following article, we'll break down what you can expect as you start searching for a medical alert system. Traditional systems Traditional medical alert systems are the most common. These systems usually consist of the following: Base system Emergency call pendant Wireless or landline connectivity Traditional systems include a base system that syncs with a wireless alert pendant. The base system connects to a power outlet and a landline phone connection depending on the design of the system. The wireless alert device is then carried by the patient at all times. Typically, the device can be worn as either a pendant or a wristband and is water resistant, so it can be worn in the shower. Until recently, most medical alert systems were operated solely through landline connections. However, more traditional medical alert systems are becoming compatible with cell phone towers. Setup involves simply plugging in the device to a power outlet. These systems also have a range limit, such as 1,000 feet. That means that your loved one shouldn't wear the alert device when going to the store or traveling because it will be out of range of the base station. Mobile-based systems Range isn't a problem for mobile-based systems. For these systems, the base station is actually a small, portable device that is charged at home and then can be taken anywhere. These portable base stations have a much smaller range than a traditional base station, but that isn't much of a problem since you can carry it with you in your pocket or in a holster. Just slip it in your pocket, put on the emergency pendant or wristband, and you're ready. These systems use cell phone towers to track you. This means that you can take the medical alert with you on a walk or to the store and still have help ready at the press of a button. These systems are usually slightly more expensive than the traditional base station system, but if you live an active lifestyle, it's definitely worth the small cost. Medical alert mobile apps These are the newest line of medical alert systems, but they aren't for everyone. Multiple mobile apps on the market can serve as medical alert systems. They can be inexpensive, even free, but the biggest obstacle in using one of these apps is how familiar your loved one is with operating a smartphone. In an emergency, sometimes it is all you can do to reach for your alert pendant and press the button. Imagine having to pull out your phone, unlock it, open the medical alert app, and press the emergency call button. Naturally, there could be many obstacles in the way preventing a quick help call. It can be much easier to access medical help through a mobile system or traditional system than a smartphone. The plus side of a mobile app is that you can take it anywhere. Like any mobile system, your location can be determined through the use of cell phone towers, so it grants you more freedom. Universal features All of these systems should be equipped with wireless power rather than operating only when plugged into an outlet. Traditional medical alert systems have built-in battery packs that charge when plugged in, so if you experience a power outage, your medical alert system will still be operational for over 24 hours. Once charged, mobile systems and cell phones can be used remotely, but it's best to charge them every night. Most importantly, all of these systems are equipped with 24/7 monitoring. If you find a medical alert company that doesn't promise 24/7 monitoring, move on. You should expect help to be available whenever an emergency happens, even at inconvenient hours. Some systems will allow two-way communication between you and a medical alert representative, but most basic units will send out a simple distress signal that alerts emergency medical personnel and family that you've been in an accident. Where to start Now that you're equipped with the basic facts, you can investigate the companies. BestCompany.com has done the research to find the best medical alert companies in the industry. Most of these top companies will offer packages that span the different devices mentioned above, and the most basic systems often come at a very reasonable price. If you think you or a loved one might need a medical alert system, it's best not to hesitate.

Most people feel the safest when they're at home, but for seniors, the home doesn't always guarantee safety. According to the National Safety Council, falls in the home lead to 8.9 million trips to the emergency room each year. Falls can often cause fractures and trauma, and when you're elderly, a fall can increase your chance of accidental death by four times. So where in the home are those most likely to happen? Here are the facts. Stairs and ramps Uneven surfaces, in general, can be a hazard for the elderly who have trouble moving around. Stairs can be a hazard because falls from the top of the stairs can cause multiple injuries. In some homes, staircases and hallways can be cluttered with knickknacks or adorned with loose carpeting, which also pose a threat. Clearing stairways and hallways and securing the flooring are some effective ways to prevent risk of injury. Some options for getting around these obstacles include getting new carpeting or installing a lift chair, but those options can be time-consuming and expensive. Consider some of these practical and less expensive options: Wear rubber-soled shoes Make sure the stairway or ramp is well-lit Make sure the handrail is steady and solid Exercise occasionally to improve balance and strength Bathroom and kitchen According to a study conducted by the New York Times, the most hazardous activities that happen in the bathroom are bathing, showering, and getting out of the tub or shower. The same study showed that 31 percent of head injuries occur in the bathroom. These kinds of accidents account for more than 66 percent of emergency room visits, and women are considered 72 percent more likely than men to have an injury in the bathroom. Once someone reaches the age of 65, the likelihood of injury in the bathroom increases exponentially with age. Injuries don't happen nearly as often in the bathroom when surfaces are dry. But after a shower or a bath, the likeliness of injury spikes upward because of wet, slippery surfaces. The highest areas of danger are by the toilet and the tub. If you happen to get water on the floor, it's best to dry it as quickly as possible. Take caution This post isn't meant to frighten or scare you, but to inform you. Even if you are not afraid of getting injured while at home, you may have a loved one who wants to live independently but has a hard time getting around. Some of the tactics mentioned above should help with making the home a little bit safer and more secure. However, there are options available if you're looking for an added measure of protection. It's recommended to look into emergency medical devices just in case an accident happens, because after all, one in three seniors will have an accidental fall at some point. To make sure you're prepared, you can check out Medical Guardian's step-by-step guide on how to get up from a fall. Medical alert devices are available for nearly any budget and many systems have water-resistant pendants and fall-detection sensors that are ready for use around the home.

Medical alert devices have been around for decades and largely serve the same purpose they always have, so how can you know which company is the best? Two of the most well-known names in the medical alert industry, Life Alert and Medical Guardian, both serve thousands of customers and feature 24/7 monitoring by certified emergency representatives, but what are the key differences between the two? Allow us to break things down for you. Price Medical Guardian's systems cost anywhere between $29.95 to $49.95 per month. The least expensive system is the Classic Guardian system that plugs into a landline connection and features 1300 feet of range. The most expensive unit is the Premium Guardian, which is roughly the size of a deck of cards and is GPS-enabled, so you can take it with you anywhere. This means that wherever you go, emergency responders will be able to pinpoint your exact location, even if you're outside. Unfortunately, Life Alert doesn't disclose any prices on its website, so it's hard to make a solid comparison. However, it appears as though Life Alert offers similar products to Medical Guardian. There are even mobile apps available with Life Alert. But since we don't know the prices of Life Alert's products, we can't know for sure if the customer is in for a bargain. Winner: Medical Guardian (by default) Equipment Fee Medical Guardian offers no equipment fee for its systems. This means that you won't have to pay extra just because the system shows up at your door. Thankfully, Life Alert doesn't charge an equipment fee, either. Winner: Tie Activation Fee Medical Guardian charges no activation fee for any of its packages. When the product comes in the mail, just plug it into your wall outlet and/or landline connection, and it should be ready to go. All of your contact information comes pre-loaded and assigned in accordance with the unit you ordered. Life Alert charges an activation and installation fee of $95 to $295 depending on the package. This can be frustrating because this could equate to a month's worth of groceries or several months of emergency monitoring. Many top medical alert companies are doing away with these fees, and Life Alert would do well to do the same. Winner: Medical Guardian Contract Medical Guardian operates based on a month-to-month basis. If a customer needs to cancel services for any reason, there isn't a hefty contract binding you into monthly payments regardless of your need. Just ship the equipment back to Medical Guardian headquarters and you're good to go. However, there is a 90-day service agreement, so you must pay for the first three months of service. If you want to return the device before the 90-day period expires, Medical Guardian will refund you the remaining amount in due time, but you must pay for the first three months beforehand. On the other hand, Life Alert operates based on a 3-year contract. This means that the customer will be required to pay every month until the 36-month period has expired, and this can be incredibly frustrating if funds are running low or you don't need the product anymore. The customer may have the option to buy out of a contract, but depending on how much time is left, that can cost upward of $1,000. Winner: Medical Guardian Warranty Both Life Alert and Medical Guardian offer lifetime warranties on their equipment. This means that if anything goes wrong with the equipment you've purchased, the company will replace it free of charge. Winner: Tie Range Medical Guardian's most basic system (Classic Guardian) offers 1300 feet of range, which is one of the greatest distances currently available on the market. The Home Guardian, which is $5/month extra, only offers half that range. Remember, though, that Medical Guardian has a more expensive GPS-enabled system that allows it to operate anywhere. In comparison, Life Alert's system offers 800 feet of range. This is still an impressive number, but Medical Guardian's most basic system can outshine this by 500 feet. There is a mobile option available to Live Alert customers that is also GPS-enabled, but the price of the product is unknown. Winner: Medical Guardian Time in Business Life Alert has been in the medical alert industry for 30 years at the time of this article's publication. The company established itself in the late 1980's with the television commercials featuring an elderly woman crying, "I've fallen and I can't get up!" These popular commercials have helped Life Alert to be the most well-known name in the medical alert industry. Medical Guardian has only been in business for 12 years at the time of this review. However, we found that Medical Guardian has a much more robust and navigable website in comparison to veteran company Life Alert. Life Alert would do well to follow Medical Guardian's lead with an organized blog, clearly outlined package pricing, and informative videos. Winner: Life Alert Customer Reviews According to BestCompany.com, Medical Guardian boasts over 1,400 customer reviews with an average rating of 8.6/10. The majority of customer reviews indicate quick response times, friendly customer representatives, and easy setup. Comparatively, Life Alert currently has a 1.6/10 rating based on 45 customer reviews. Most of the reviews complain about poor customer service and rigid contracts with overwhelming buyouts. Winner: Medical Guardian Overall Comparing the two companies, the obvious choice is Medical Guardian. The company offers several pricing options boasting different functions that should complement most customers' budgets. Even the most basic package has one of the best ranges of any device in the industry, and higher-priced units are GPS-enabled so you can take the product anywhere. The company also has excellent customer feedback based on over 1,400 experiences. This speaks to the company's customer service and ease of use. Life Alert is one of the pioneers in the medical alert industry, but according to feedback from customers and a lack of pricing transparency on the company's website, the organization seems to be a little out of touch. The lifetime warranty and lack of equipment fee are definitely encouraging but aren't enough to set the company apart from other companies in the medical alert industry. Looking at customer feedback is especially discouraging. Winner: Medical Guardian

Living alone can feel isolating. It might feel like there's not much to do when you're taking care of the house by yourself and visitors don't come as often as you'd like. You can combat feelings of boredom or loneliness by engaging in hobbies or activities that encourage socialization and build your strength physically, mentally, and emotionally. Here is a list of things we recommend. Doing Arts and Crafts Creating anything with your hands is stimulating mentally. Art therapy has been used to help memories resurface for those who suffer from dementia. Some quality activities include the following: Painting Sculpting Ceramic molding Photography Woodworking Many of these activities can be engaging on a social level. See if your local recreation center offers classes for the above-mentioned activities or anything similar. This is a great way to engage in an environment where you can make friends and practice something you'll enjoy. Volunteering Volunteering is an opportunity to forget your own troubles and help someone in need. Wherever you are, there are organizations that need an extra pair of hands or just someone willing to give of their time, such as the Boys and Girls Club, the Boy/Girl Scouts of America, your local library, or soup kitchen. Studies have shown that those who regularly volunteer decrease their risk of depression, enjoy a sense of purpose and fulfillment, and have reduced stress levels. Read More: Volunteer Opportunities for Seniors Golfing Golf is a low-intensity physical activity that requires a lot of dexterity and allows you to get out and enjoy some fresh air. The activity also improves flexibility and provides social interaction. If you're looking to lose weight, golf might be a good option as well. The Norwegian Golf Federation found that an 18-hole game of golf burns around 2,500 calories. If you walk the whole way, it also involves taking over 10,000 steps, which is considered a good goal for the number of steps you should be taking every day. Gardening Not only does gardening increase flexibility and mobility, but it also increases hand strength. A Stockholm study found that gardening regularly reduces your risk of heart attack and stroke by up to 30 percent if you're over the age of 60. Not only that, but most gardeners will tell you that there's a large sense of satisfaction that comes with tending rows of shrubs and blooming flowers. Gardening also means home grown vegetables. Growing vegetables in a personal garden is doable even if you live in an apartment. All you need is a box, some plastic lining, top soil, and seeds. Most of these can be found at your local hardware store. Line the box with the plastic, fill it with the top soil, plant your seeds, set your box by an open window, and make sure to water it regularly. Growing your own vegetables like squash, carrots, peas, and tomatoes is a great way to subsidize your own food costs while providing yourself with a fun, meaningful hobby. Exercising At any age, making exercise a habit is an important thing, but as you get older, your bones and joints aren't as strong as they once were. Some low-intensity workouts suitable for the aging adult include the following: Swimming Yoga Tai Chi Resistance band training Walking With these hobbies, it's a good idea to consider purchasing a medical alert system. As you continue to age, you become more and more susceptible to a fall which could become life-threatening, no matter how active you are. A list of the best medical alert companies in the industry can be found here. Writing Poetry or Stories For centuries, poetry has been used as a supplemental treatment for mental disorders. It's a healthy mode of self-expression and, depending on the form, encourages structure that's mentally stimulating. If you're feeling upset, sad, or lonely, poetry is a good medium for a therapeutic, emotional outlet. Aside from that, remember that story idea you had swirling in your mind for so many years, but never had the time to write it? When you're living alone, there's no better time to do it. Writing stories allows you to visualize new people, places, and situations and following a narrative structure is a lot like building a puzzle with words. If you don't have a fictional story in mind, it's a great idea to write down your own life stories for your family to read. Doing Family History Genealogy has been a popular activity for many people reaching their more advanced years, and with the internet, researching your ancestors has never been easier. Some top genealogy websites include FamilySearch.org, FindMyPast.com, and Ancestry.com. These sites include thousands upon thousands of files representing those who have passed on, and most users find it simple to locate their ancestors and begin researching their family tree. FamilySearch.org is a service operated by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints but isn't restricted to use of those belonging to the LDS Church. Anyone can sign up and begin researching free of charge. However, Ancestry.com is a more popular service that costs just shy of $20/month and also provides millions of files. FindMyPast.com offers similar services at the same price but also features a 1939 Register. Operating a Ham Radio This is the same interface that police officers and fire fighters use to communicate. Ham radio systems can cost anywhere from $35 to over $1000, depending on what kind of range you'd like the radio to access. These systems can fit in your hand like a walkie talkie or can take up an entire desk space. However, with the latter, you can access and communicate with other ham radio operators across the world! Just know that you have to pass a written exam in order to become officially ham radio certified. Allow yourself approximately ten hours of study time before you take the exam. The test costs $15, and you can take it as many times as you'd like until you pass with a score of 85 percent. A Technician class license will work just fine if you wish to communicate with other ham radio operators locally, but you must acquire a General class license if you want to communicate internationally. Caring for a Pet Pets are a great solution for feelings of loneliness or depression. There are also financial benefits to adopting a pet because they are typically cheaper to purchase through adoption than if you were to buy from a pet store. You're also saving a pet in need, so it can be a win-win. Pets have been shown to reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and increase social interaction along with physical activity. The sense of companionship from dogs, in particular, increases the flow of positive hormones to the brain and body, resulting in a therapeutic experience. Psychologist Penny B. Donnenfeld has indicated that dogs can even help elders with their memories. In particular, some of the best dog breeds for seniors are pugs, schnauzers, cocker spaniels, chihuahuas, and Boston terriers.