Medical Alert Systems Blog and Resources

Medical alert system costs typically include a one-time equipment or setup fee as well as a monthly or yearly subscription. Users pay between $20 and $100 for monthly subscriptions and $100-200 for equipment fees depending on the brand, features, and monitoring costs.  Additional features such as fall detection, equipment protection, GPS tracking can be an additional cost, depending on the provider.  Average Medical Alert System Cost  Medical alert system costs vary based on a number of factors, including device type, setup and equipment costs, monthly subscription fees, and additional features such as fall detection.  Setup and Equipment Fees Initial fees vary based on brand, device, and service type. There are usually one-time fees to get your equipment set up or installed, and you can anticipate costs to be around $100 for the initial setup.  Subscription Fees  Medical Alert companies tend to charge users a monthly fee based on desired service type and device. Additional features such as fall detection often raise your monthly costs. Below, we’ve broken down the costs based on device type and features.  Home-Based Devices Home devices either connect to a landline telephone or integrate with cellular service connections. These devices usually include a water-resistant wearable button on a lanyard or wristband. Seniors can press the button to let a monitoring center know when they need assistance. For landline devices, this works by sending a signal to the base unit in the user’s home, which then sends the alert to the monitoring center.  Monthly cost by landline or mobile device:  Landline: $20-$100 per month depending on extra features. Mobile: typically $40 monthly for GPS and monitoring. Unmonitored Medical Alert System vs. Monitored Alert System Costs Monitoring systems are a must for many seniors who want to keep their independence while knowing there is always a way to receive emergency support. Medical alert device monitoring systems start at about $20 monthly, and prices rise as users add additional features to monthly plans.  Unmonitored medical alert devices usually do not incur monthly fees, but users will still have to pay any initial equipment and setup costs to install devices that connect to a landline and alert 911 in the case of an emergency.  Fall Detection  Medical alert system companies offer fall detection as an add-on or a separate service, which costs about $10 a month. These devices recognize sudden falling motions.  Medical Alert Device GPS Tracking  Many medical alert systems provide these optional features at an extra cost: Physical activity tracking for things like heart rate, steps taken, and sleep. Two-way communication with monitoring centers. Medication reminders to keep seniors on track with medicines.  Factors Affecting Cost  Medical alert system costs vary depending on many factors, including:  Monitoring: You will pay more for monitored devices that connect to a support center. GPS: Mobile systems that track location to send emergency services directly to you can incur additional costs. Protection plans: You can pay an additional $10 or more each month for device protection. Contracts: Some device providers that require a contract may charge additional fees for cancellation. Some companies will not allow users to cancel except for extreme circumstances such as death of the user. It is a good idea to carefully consider the terms of any contracts required for your medical device. Device replacement: Daily wear can damage devices over time, and devices that do not include a warranty or protection plan could incur replacement fees. System type: Costs vary depending on whether you buy a landline-compatible medical alert button, mobile device, or smartwatch. Medical Alert System Costs by Brand  When choosing between popular medical alert system brands like MobileHelp, Medical Alert, and Medical Guardian, be aware that systems come with features such as GPS, water resistance, and mobile, wearable buttons. Below is a description of each brand and the monthly subscription fees for each device as well as any one-time fees users can expect to pay.  MobileHelp  MobileHelp is a leader in medical alert system technology, offering various landline and cellular packages depending on your needs. Classic packages for MobileHelp’s Classic Cellular and Classic Landline are available for a $24.95 monthly subscription fee, with no equipment charges. MobileHelp Solo, a landline-free button that works both at home and on the go, comes with a $34.95 monthly subscription. The MobileHelp Micro costs $34.95 a month and offers a smaller button with a detachable lanyard that can be worn in the shower. The Home Duo bundle comes with a base unit and wearable button for $44.95 per month. MobileHelp’s Mobile Duo costs $49.95 per month for two water-resistant help buttons. Users will pay more for shipping, fall detection, protection plans, and emergency contact alerts.  Explore reviews from real homeowners on MobileHelp's services. Medical Alert  Medical Alert offers home and mobile systems as well as smartwatches, fall detection, and an app. Costs start at $20.00 per month plus one-time programming or device fees with no long-term contracts. Medical Alert’s Home Cellular System starts at $29.95 per month plus a $99.95 programming fee for a help button that works with the user’s cellular service. Semi-annual and annual plans include a free lockbox and shipping. The Home Landline System starts at $19.95 per month with a $99.95 programming fee, featuring a waterproof button that connects to the user’s landline. Medical Alert’s mobile system includes a standard model, which starts at $34.95 each month, and a mini system starting at $39.95 per month. Both require a $99.95 programming fee. For users that want to monitor physical activity, Medical Alert’s smartwatch starts at $34.95 monthly with a $159 device fee. Medical Alert’s app is included with subscriptions. Users can expect to pay extra for fall protection.  Explore reviews from real homeowners on Medical Alert's services. Medical Guardian  Medical Guardian provides high-quality, affordable options with a lifetime warranty and no setup fees or long-term contracts. Most of the equipment comes at no charge, apart from the Freedom Guard smartwatch and the Mini Guardian. The company offers many packages, starting at less than $1 per day with a $32.95 monthly subscription fee for the MGClassic, a system that connects to a landline in your home using a wearable, waterproof medical alert button. Medical Guardian’s MGHome Cellular has a $149.95 one-time equipment fee, with a $37.95 subscription fee for a wireless, wearable button that is not dependent on a landline. The MGMini offers a smaller, sleeker help button in various colors, with a $39.95 monthly subscription fee and a one-time equipment fee of $149.95. The MGMini features water resistance, GPS tracking, and five-day battery life. MGMini Lite, a smartwatch that provides 24/7 protection, comes with a $149.95 equipment fee and $44.95 monthly subscription. Medical Guardian’s newest smartwatch costs $39.95 a month with a one-time equipment fee of $199.95. Expect to pay more for shipping as well as additional features such as a lockbox, fall detection, and device protection.  Explore reviews from real homeowners on Medical Guardian's services. The Bottom Line  Medical alert devices can be a necessary expense for seniors who want to continue to live independently. Devices from the brands we have outlined in this article give caregivers and families peace of mind knowing that their loved one has access to support services.  When purchasing a medical alert device, users should look at which device fits into their lifestyle best. From wristbands to necklaces and smartwatches, there are plenty of options for in-home and on-the-go monitoring.  Families should expect to pay $100 for equipment fees and set up as well as a monthly subscription for 24/7 monitoring, in the range of $20-$100 each month. Features such as fall detection, GPS, and device protection can cost extra and add to monthly subscription costs. 

Historically, medical alert devices have been bulky and noticeable, often worn around the neck. Perhaps you’ve been wary of purchasing a medical alert device for that exact reason — it’s unflattering to wear or its size and shape just get in the way. Luckily, medical alert companies have been working to make devices smaller and easier to wear. And one device, in particular, just recently hit the market! Introducing the MGMini Lite — Medical Guardian’s newest, smallest, and simplest device that can be worn on the wrist. The MGMini Lite Since 2005, Medical Guardian has been providing reliable medical alert assistance and devices, and the company is constantly seeking to improve its products to meet the varying needs of its customers. Unveiled in September 2023, the MGMini Lite is meant to be “a versatile choice for a wide range of lifestyles. …”, as outlined by Medical Guardian CEO and Founder, Geoff Gross, in a Medical Guardian news release. The device is small and discreet — it is meant to be worn on the wrist, not around the neck. And while the MGMini Lite’s size may be enticing enough, the device features cutting-edge technology, ensuring that you can get immediate assistance when you need it. Compared to other “on-the-go” medical alert devices in the market, the MGMini Lite really is mini, as the name applies. The device face itself is 1.5 x 1.4 x .5 inches in dimension, comparable to an Apple Watch face — the device is small enough to blend into any lifestyle. The MGMini Lite device face features an emergency help button, and a speaker and microphone. Thus, if there is an emergency, you can easily press the help button and receive immediate assistance from the Medical Guardian monitoring center. Additionally, the MGMini Lite features step and activity tracking. If the MGMini Lite already sounds like a dream come true, let’s take a deep dive into device features and pricing. Pricing When you decide to purchase a MGMini Lite device, you’ll pay a one-time equipment fee of $149.95 to cover the cost of the device, and you’ll need to choose a monitoring and subscription plan. You can choose to pay monthly, quarterly, or annually — pricing for each is as follows: Monthly — $44.95 per month Quarterly — $134.85 per quarter Annually — $494.45 per year* (a one-time yearly cost with no other options) It’s worth noting that Medical Guardian also offers monthly and weekly specials that can help you save more on your product and/or service purchase. *With an annual plan you can save 16 percent on your subscription. In addition, annual savings include one free month, a free lockbox, and free ground shipping. Can I purchase the MGMini Lite for or on behalf of a loved one? Yes, the MGMini Lite can be purchased by a caregiver for or on behalf of a loved one (Medical Guardian uses the term “care recipient” to describe the individual who will be covered by the medical alert service provided with any MG device). Is there a minimum commitment for service? There is a three-month (90 day) minimum commitment for monitoring services with your MGMini Lite (or any Medical Guardian device). If you’ve chosen a monthly service subscription, you won’t be required to pay for three months up front, but you’ll need to be prepared to pay for service for at least three months. Can I cancel my monitoring service, if needed? If for any reason you need to cancel your MGMini Lite monitoring subscription, you can request cancellation by calling Medical Guardian and speaking with a representative — you must speak with a Medical Guardian representative in order to complete cancellation. After requesting cancellation, you’ll be sent a cancellation letter via standard mail or e-mail. You’ll need to sign this letter and send it back to Medical Guardian, and once it’s been received your cancellation can take up to 30 days to be fully processed. Any unused portion of prepaid monitoring beyond the three-month minimum commitment period will be returned to you electronically or in the form of a check refund. Wearable options The MGMini Lite comes with a wristband attached, as the device is meant to be worn on the wrist. The wearable wristband option is particularly beneficial for those who lead an active lifestyle, but is also a good option for those who would prefer a more discreet medical alert device that is not only small, but doesn’t need to be worn around the neck as a pendant. Durability The MGMini Lite is water-resistant — you can wear it in the shower without any worry. However, the device shouldn’t be submerged in water. Fall detection Fall detection is not included with the MGMini Lite. The device is primarily an emergency call button, but you can add on additional features, including fall detection for $10 monthly. Do I need to add fall detection to my MGMini Lite? Whether or not you add fall detection to your MGMini Lite is entirely up to you. The fall detection add-on feature can provide additional protection and peace of mind. However, it’s important to note that fall detection technology doesn’t work 100 percent of the time. Thus, if a fall occurs you should always press your help button anyway. What other add-on features does Medical Guardian offer with the MGMini Lite? In addition to fall detection, Medical Guardian offers the following add-on features with the MGMini Lite: Lockbox — $2.99 per month OnGuard alerts — $2.99 per month MG Protection Plan — $6.99 per month Battery life The MGMini Lite’s battery will last up to 36 hours on a full charge. However, battery life will vary based on use, including cellular strength and fall detection events. Charging your MGMini Lite device is easy and straightforward. Your device will come with a charging cable that includes a wall plug and charging cradle. Once you’ve plugged the cable into the wall and your MGMini Lite is placed in the charging cradle (make sure that the charging pins line up with the charging plates), your device will charge fully within 2 to 3 hours. How do I know if my MGMini Lite is charging? While charging, the red battery light around the help button will flash every five seconds. You’ll know your device is fully charged when the red battery light is solid red and no longer flashing. Light indicators Your MGMini Lite features two colored light indicators — red and blue. Both lights surround the help button, but indicate different things. What is the red light on my MGMini Lite? The red light indicator on your MGMini Lite is connected to your device’s battery life.  When your device’s battery is low, the red light will flash slowly until it is placed in the charging cradle. While charging, the red light will flash every 5 seconds until the device is fully charged. When your device has finished charging, the red light will be solid. What is the blue light on my MGMini Lite? The blue light indicator on your MGMini Lite is connected to emergency calls. When you press the center help button on your device, the blue light will be solid. It is also important to note that the blue light will also flash every 5 seconds while charging.  What do I do if the blue light is flashing (when not charging) or the light double flashes? If the blue light indicator on your MGMini Lite is flashing while it isn’t charging, or the light double flashes, you’ll need to contact Medical Guardian directly. The light could indicate a fault with your device, and a Medical Guardian representative will work with you to resolve the issue or replace your device, if necessary. Connectivity Every MGMini Lite device comes with access to the Medical Guardian online portal, as well as the Medical Guardian MyGuardian App. Through either the online portal or MyGuardian App, you can manage your subscription and billing, receive device and system reports, and manage your care (manage emergency contacts and chat with members of your Care Circle). While the Medical Guardian online portal and MyGuardian App can make it easier to manage your MGMini Lite device, it’s important to note that you don’t have to have a smartphone to use the device. As a caregiver, what resources are available to help me check in on my loved one? As a caregiver to an individual using a medical alert device, such as the MGMini Lite, you can use Medical Guardian’s online portal and/or app to communicate with your loved one, while also receiving updates about their device and if the help button has been pushed in the case of an emergency. Medical Guardian seeks to make medical alert care easier for both device users and caregivers, as facilitated through its online customer portal options. Medical Guardian has refined its online customer portal experience over the years and the MyGuardian App is currently the #1 Ranked Customer Care App by safety.com. Is the MyGuardian App available on both iPhone and Android smartphones? The MyGuardian App is available to download on both iOS and Android devices through the Apple Store and Google Play Store. How the MGMini Lite compares The MGMini Lite isn’t the only wearable wrist device available in the medical alert system market. Many medical alert companies offer a wearable device that is often marketed as a smartwatch — the devices typically feature an LCD display screen and offer other capabilities beyond emergency monitoring, such as step/activity tracking, heart rate monitoring, and even weather and/or calendar apps. Compared to the following devices, the MGMini Lite offers a much simpler and streamlined device that can connect you with an emergency operator with one click of a button. The MGMini Lite does feature step/activity tracking, but users don’t have to navigate a smartwatch screen to use the device. Deciding between a simple wearable device, like the MGMini Lite, and a device more closely resembling a smartwatch, is entirely dependent on lifestyle. However, knowing what options are available to you can help you make the most informed decision. So let’s take a look at some other popular wearable medical alert devices in the industry: Medical Guardian MGMove Size: 1.25 inch diameter (2 ounces in weight) Pricing: $39.95 per month + $199.95 one-time equipment fee $119.85 per quarter + $199.95 one-time equipment fee $439.45 per year + $199.95 one-time equipment fee Features: SOS push button to contact an emergency operator Step/activity tracking Communication with loved ones directly from device (add-on),  Calendar notifications (add-on) Medical Guardian’s MGMove wrist wearable device is similar in function to the MGMini Lite, but features a LCD display screen, allowing you to use the device like a smartwatch. The device features step/activity tracking, as well as add-on features that allow you to communicate with loved ones directly from the device and even receive calendar notifications. Thus, the device may be an appealing option for those who lead particularly active lifestyles. UnaliWear Kanega Watch Size: Similar in size to Apple Watch — not a dainty device to accommodate rechargeable batteries; band is approximately 1 inch across; 4 band sizes available (S–XL) Pricing: $199.00 one-time activation fee + $719.40 annual subscription fee $299.00 one-time activation fee + $69.95 monthly subscription fee Features: Push button and voice activation to contact an emergency operator RealFall™ Fall Detection (included at no extra cost) Patented “quick-swap” rechargeable battery system (you never have to remove the device to charge) Works independently The UnaliWear Kanega Watch is one of the more popular smartwatch medical alert devices in the market. Although the watch has a higher price tag than you may see with other devices, it sets itself apart with the inclusion of fall detection. Most other wrist wearable medical alert devices don’t include fall detection — although some offer fall detection at an additional low cost, as is the case with both Medical Guardian’s MGMove and MGMini Lite devices. However, if you’re concerned primarily about falling, a device like the UnaliWear Kanega Watch could be a good option for you. It’s important to note that fall detection technology isn’t 100 percent effective. Even if your device includes fall detection it’s important to push your emergency help button, if you’re able, ensuring that you can be connected with an emergency operator. The UnaliWear Kanega Watch also sets itself apart with rechargeable batteries. This means that you don’t have to remove your watch to charge it; instead, you’ll only need to remove the batteries, which can be swapped out with charged batteries in the meantime. While the option to never be without your medical alert device even for a few hours for charging can offer peace of mind, the rechargeable batteries require more device space, making the Kanega Watch a much bulkier device than others on the market, especially when compared to the MGMini Lite. LifeStation Sidekick Smart Size: 1.82 inches (screen), 47mm (case size) Pricing: $46.95 per month + $99.95 activation fee Features: Push button to contact an emergency operator Step/activity tracking Heart rate monitoring Weather forecasts and notifications While the LifeStation Sidekick Smart is similar to other devices in the industry, it supports an active lifestyle, with step/activity tracking and heart rate monitoring, at a much lower cost. It’s important to note that the device doesn’t include fall detection, nor the option to add fall detection to the device. But by pushing the help button, you’ll be immediately connected to an emergency operator. WellBe Smart Watch Size: 1.82 inches (screen), 47mm (case size) Pricing: $29.95 per month + $119.95 one-time fee for device Features: Push button to contact an emergency operator Step/activity tracking Heart rate monitoring The WellBe Smart Watch is very similar to the LifeStation Sidekick Smart in nearly all ways — size, pricing, and features. However, it could be an even more affordable option with a lower month-to-month service rate of $29.95. The Bottom Line If you’re looking for a smaller, more discreet, medical alert device option, the MGMini Lite could be a great option for you. Compared to competing devices in the market, the MGMini Lite is simple and lightweight, allowing you to enjoy a worry-free active lifestyle without a bulky device weighing you down. Medical Guardian Devices Learn more about Medical Guardian and its top-rated medical alert devices. Learn More

The winter holidays can be a time of joy, reunions, and cherished memories with loved ones. For seniors, it's an opportunity to embrace life, stay active, and relish the warmth of family gatherings.  However, the holiday season can also pose unique challenges, especially for seniors and those with medical conditions. The risk of isolation, loneliness, and unforeseen emergencies is higher during this time.  Fortunately, medical alert systems, such as Medical Guardian’s new MGMini Lite, can be indispensable companions for those who wish to maintain their safety, independence, and peace of mind during their holiday adventures.  We’ll walk you through some things to consider as you prepare for the holidays and explain the role medical alert systems can play in a healthy holiday season, whether at home (at-home devices) or on the move (mobile units). Being with loved ones helps avoid isolation and loneliness Seniors often face the risk of isolation and loneliness, holiday season or not.  The National Institute on Aging has found that social isolation and loneliness are associated with a higher risk for poor aging outcomes in older adults.  A study on loneliness found higher risks for a variety of physical and mental conditions, including high blood pressure, a weakened immune system, anxiety, cognitive decline, and even death.  But one of the most beautiful aspects of the holiday season is the opportunity to be with loved ones. Traveling to visit family and friends or having them visit you can be a heartwarming experience that dispels feelings of loneliness.  How medical alerts can help: Medical alert systems not only provide safety but also contribute to emotional well-being. The presence of such a device allows seniors to spend quality time with their loved ones without the fear of emergencies ruining the moment. It offers peace of mind to both seniors and their loved ones, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the holidays without undue worry. Holiday travel keeps you active and engaged A study published in the Journal of Aging Research found that staying active in later life is associated with better physical and mental health. For seniors, staying active and engaged is crucial for maintaining well-being, and traveling during the holiday season offers a perfect opportunity to achieve this.  Exploring new destinations, participating in holiday festivities, and engaging in outdoor activities can also rekindle a zest for life.  However, these activities also bring the potential for accidents, falls, or unexpected health issues. This is where medical alert systems come into play. How medical alerts can help: Medical alert systems ensure that seniors travel with confidence. With the press of a button, help can be on its way and with this type of protection, seniors have the confidence to maintain an active and fulfilling lifestyle. The MGMini Lite, with its discreet and lightweight design, seamlessly integrates into daily exercise routines or seasonal travel, ready to offer assistance whenever needed. Safeguards are crucial in winter weather and travel  Unsafe weather conditions, long journeys, unfamiliar environments, and changing routines can increase the risk of accidents or health complications.  Medical alert systems are designed to address these concerns. Customer review  Barbara was grateful for her Medical Guardian device when she fell during the height of winter weather:  I had to use it about two days after Christmas, on the 27th of December. I fell backward when I was going into my house. I just lost my balance and went down. It was really cold out, 5 degrees below zero, and I didn’t know what I was going to do. Thank god I had my medical alert with me, so I grabbed it and pushed the button. I also happened to have my cell phone in my pocket so I used it to call my daughter. She called the fire department too and they told her that they were on their way already. Top features, explained Specifically, the MGMini Lite model embodies the concept of active aging. Its sleek design makes it a stylish yet functional accessory that seniors can carry with them wherever they go. It offers several features that make it the perfect travel companion for seniors: Battery Life — With up to three days of battery life, the MGMini Lite ensures continuous protection during your travels, and it only requires a 3-hour recharge period.GPS Coverage — The device provides nationwide GPS location and unlimited 4G LTE coverage, ensuring that you're never out of reach.Lightweight Design — Weighing just 0.7 oz without the strap, the MGMini Lite is comfortable to wear throughout the day.Fall Detection — The device comes equipped with a superior 6-axis fall detection technology, offering high accuracy with minimum false alarms. An impressive 9 out of 10 users opt for this feature.Online Portal and App — The online portal and app make it easy for seniors and their loved ones to access and update safety information in one central hub. You can manage your Care Circle, chat with members, set reminders, and update essential information. As a trusted provider of medical alert systems, Medical Guardian understands that aging should not equate to limitations; innovative solutions like the MGMini Lite can allow seniors the freedom to enjoy opportunities while minimizing fears. 

The aging population in the United States is booming and will only continue to grow, especially when compared to slowing population growth.  The supply of caregivers in the workforce is not keeping pace with the growth and the demand. And the shortage of caregivers is becoming an increasingly pressing issue, becoming a crisis for seniors and their loved ones.  Fortunately, there's a partial lifeline in the form of medical alert systems, which can help bridge the gap in care, offering peace of mind and practical assistance to both seniors and their caregivers. We'll walk you through some of the issues facing caregivers as well as one of the best caregiver alert systems available right now.  The data: The extent of the caregiver shortage and why it matters  According to the U.S. Census Bureau, by 2030, one in five Americans will be of retirement age, leading to a dramatic increase in the need for caregiving services.  Caregiver availability  The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the demand for home health and personal care aides is projected to increase by 22 percent from 2022 to 2032, far faster than the average for all occupations. This demand is driven by the aging population's need for care. However, caregiver shortages are particularly acute in rural areas. According to AARP, 25 percent of all Americans aged 65 and older live in small towns and rural communities. These particular seniors may face challenges accessing caregiving services due to limited availability. Furthermore, geographical distances often separate family members, making providing adequate care to aging loved ones difficult. Caregiver burnout Even when supply and demand align, caregiving is a demanding and often thankless job. It requires immense dedication, compassion, and time, making it challenging for many to commit to full-time caregiving.  A study in The Journals of Gerontology found that compared to caregivers who felt little or no strain, caregivers who felt that they were under a lot of strain had poorer overall health outcomes. Caregiver burnout can manifest in a number of ways, including the following: Fatigue Irritability Anxiety Depression Frequent headaches Insomnia Weakened immune system Increased substance abuse  If you’re in this position or know a caregiver who is, it’s time to consider additional support.  Medical alerts are one solution for care gaps  In this grim situation, medical alert systems emerge as a crucial part of the solution. These systems offer seniors a lifeline, granting them immediate access to assistance when needed, even if their caregiver is miles away. Of course, tech products and services can never replace personalized caregiving. However, they can be invaluable in establishing a safety network between professional caregiver shifts or family caregiver check-ins.  Bridging the distance gap As mentioned, many caregivers find themselves living far from their senior loved ones, resulting in feelings of helplessness and guilt. Medical alert systems act as a bridge, seamlessly connecting caregivers to their seniors when they can't be there physically. This technology ensures that assistance is just a button press away, regardless of the miles that separate the caregiver and the senior. Bridging the gap in emergencies  Medical alert systems empower seniors to call for help with a simple press of a button. Whether they've had a fall, are experiencing a medical emergency, or just need a hand, these systems seamlessly connect them to a trained operator who can dispatch assistance swiftly. This real-time assistance can be the difference between life and death in emergency situations, especially when caregivers cannot be physically present. Medical alert systems facilitate prompt communication and response during critical moments. Falls, in particular, pose a substantial risk to seniors, with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reporting that one in four older adults experience a fall each year, leading to over 3 million emergency department visits annually. Alleviating some of the mental and emotional burdens For family caregivers, the knowledge that their loved ones have immediate access to help brings immense relief; knowing that a medical alert system is in place offers peace of mind, allowing caregivers to navigate their daily lives with less anxiety. The world is no longer on their shoulders since they have a network of professional resources at their loved one’s disposal.  It may not alleviate all symptoms of burnout completely, but it lightens the emotional burden of being unable to provide round-the-clock care.  Medical Guardian provides optimal products and services Medical Guardian is at the forefront of providing innovative solutions to bridge the caregiver gap.  Fall detection  According to a study published in the Journal of Medical Internet Research, wearable fall detection devices have demonstrated high sensitivity (85.7%) and specificity (97.9%) in accurately identifying falls, ensuring rapid assistance. Medical Guardian's devices with fall detection are particularly noteworthy. Based on review intake data from past and current customers with Medical Guardian, response times are rapid, with the majority of response times within 30 seconds of a call or a fall detection trigger.  Variety of products The company’s range of medical alert systems offers customizable options to cater to individual needs. From in-home systems to mobile devices with GPS tracking, they have a solution for every situation. Mobile devices can be worn on the wrist or on a lanyard or belt loop.  Advanced features  In addition to the important emergency calling and fall detection technology offered on Medical Guardian’s devices, the company has recently introduced a new wearable product that offers reliable coverage in a discreet product.  MGMini Lite fits into seniors’ lifestyles seamlessly and also provides a holistic approach to caregiving gaps when the caregiver cannot be physically present. A few notable MGMini LIte features include the following:  Easy to use — A high-tech device that is simple and user-friendly: one press to call for help GPS Coverage — Continuous, on-demand nationwide GPS location and unlimited 4G LTE coverage Two-way speaker  — Speak directly with emergency professionals in an emergency  Battery Life — Last up to three days with a full charge; has a 3-hour recharge period Water-Resistant — IP67 certified so you can stay protected in the shower (towel-dry after it gets wet; do not submerge)  Another standout offering is the companion mobile app, which allows caregivers to remotely monitor their loved ones' activity and well-being via data from the MGMini Lite.  Reviews speak for themselves  The company maintains a 4.5/5-star review average with over 15,000 reviews on our site. Medical Guardian customers note the company's representatives are always prompt, patient, and helpful whether it's an emergency, a routine test, or just a simple customer service inquiry.  The company values feedback from both customers and caregivers about their experience with the medical alert system. We’ll highlight some reviews below that illustrate what Medical Guardian offers customers.  Regarding communication between caregivers and emergency personnel:  Regarding charging notifications:  Regarding overall peace of mind:  The company also takes the time to respond individually to each review with concern, seeking to rectify the situation in the event that the customer is dissatisfied: Choose solutions that work for everyone involved: seniors, caretakers, and emergency response teams   The caregiver shortage is a growing concern. But medical alert systems, such as those offered by Medical Guardian, provide a data-backed solution to mitigate the challenges posed by this shortage.  These systems empower seniors to maintain their independence and safety, simultaneously offering caregivers and loved ones the peace of mind they so desperately need.  As we navigate the complexities of an aging society, investing in products like medical alert systems, alongside other innovative solutions, becomes increasingly essential.

As we age, maintaining independence becomes increasingly important. One crucial aspect of independent living is ensuring safety and well-being, especially in the event of a medical emergency. Medical alert systems have emerged as invaluable tools that provide seniors with a reliable means of calling for help when needed. In this article, we will explore the different types of medical alert systems available and discuss which ones are best suited for seniors with varying activity levels. We’ll review the general advantages and disadvantages of medical alert systems below. You’ll also find references to one of our top-rated medical alert companies, Medical Guardian, as an example of specific medical alert packages that meet the criteria for varying activity levels.  1. Traditional Landline Medical Alert Systems Traditional landline medical alert systems have been around for many years and remain a popular choice for seniors who spend most of their time at home. These systems are connected to the home's telephone landline and consist of a base unit and a wearable emergency button. When the button on the base unit or wearable button is pressed, it sends a signal to connect to a monitoring center or designated caregivers. Ideal for: Seniors with limited mobility or those who primarily stay at home. Advantages Reliable connectivity through landline Easy to install and use No charging needed so you’ll have 24/7 protection without the necessity of repeated charging of the medical alert device  Disadvantages Limited range outside the home Vulnerable to extended power outages or phone line disruptions Medical Guardian Package Highlight Medical Guardian has two traditional landline medical alert packages: the Classic Guardian and the Home 2.0. The main difference between the two is the Home 2.0 has a 1,400-foot range vs. the Classic Guardian's 1,300-foot range. ​​The classic Guardian offers a fall detection pendant, wireless wall button, and a voice-activated wall button. The Home 2.0 offers the Elite 911, wireless wall button, a voice-activated wall button, and a fall detection pendant. Both packages have access to MyGuardian and allows users to speak into the base unit.   Both medical alert options offer a 32-hour backup battery in the case of a power outage. With one of the highest ranges in the industry, you'll have protection in and around your home up to 3-4 football fields. Classic Guardian Home 2.0 2. Mobile Medical Alert Systems Mobile-based medical alert systems have gained popularity due to their flexibility and wider coverage area. This type of medical alert device provides seniors with the utmost flexibility and mobility. These systems use cellular networks to establish a connection with a monitoring center or emergency contacts. They typically include a wearable pendant or wristband with a built-in speaker and microphone, enabling two-way communication with the monitoring center. GPS tracking is typically included, enabling individuals to call for help from anywhere. Fall detection can also typically be included.  Ideal for: Active seniors who frequently leave their homes or travel. Advantages Complete freedom of movement GPS-enable tracking for precise location tracking Wide coverage area, both indoors and outdoors No landline dependency Additional features such as fall detection and medication reminders Disadvantages Reliance on cellular signal strength Regular charging required for mobile devices Monthly service fees may be higher than landline-based systems Medical Guardian Package Highlight Medical Guardian's Mobile 2.0 medical alert device uses 4G LTE, WiFi, and GPS to ensure the best possible connection. The main feature that sets this system apart from its competitors is that it is still accessible while charging. The device also has a battery that lasts up to 5 days, so you won't have to worry about charging the device every night. You can wear the device as a necklace or wristband.  Lastly, the device and all Medical Guardian products include access to MyGuardian, which is a customer portal that can be shared with caregivers. 3. Smartwatch Medical Alert Devices Smartwatch medical alert systems are an innovative and convenient solution for individuals seeking a discreet and portable way to access emergency assistance. These devices combine the functionality of a traditional medical alert system with the features of a smartwatch, offering a range of health and safety features in one compact device. Smartwatch medical alert systems are best suited for active individuals who want to maintain their independence while ensuring quick access to help in case of emergencies.  Ideal for: Seniors or older adults who want to maintain an active lifestyle while having peace of mind knowing that help is just a button press away; outdoor enthusiasts or athletes who engage in activities such as hiking, running, or cycling, where the risk of accidents or falls is higher. Advantages  Discreet and stylish design that resembles a regular watch GPS tracking capabilities that enable quick and accurate location identification in case of emergencies Activity monitoring features that track fitness metrics, heart rate, and sleep patterns Integration with smartphone apps and other smart home devices for seamless connectivity and expanded functionality Waterproof and durable construction Disadvantages Reliance on battery life, requiring regular charging to ensure continuous functionality Smaller screen size and limited input options compared to smartphones, which may pose challenges for individuals with vision or dexterity issues Dependence on cellular or WiFi connectivity for transmitting emergency alerts, which may be subject to coverage limitations in certain areas The learning curve associated with operating the device and understanding its features, especially for users who may not be familiar with smartwatch technology Higher upfront costs compared to traditional medical alert systems, as they encompass advanced technology and additional features Medical Guardian Package Highlight Medical Guardian's medical alert smartwatch, the MGMove, combines the benefits of a medical alert system with the convenience and functionality of a smartwatch. This innovative solution offers a range of features designed to enhance the safety and well-being of its users. The smartwatch is equipped with an emergency button that, when pressed, immediately connects the user to Medical Guardian's 24/7 monitoring centers, ensuring prompt assistance during emergencies. Additionally, the smartwatch incorporates GPS-enabled tracking capabilities, allowing emergency responders to quickly locate the user's exact whereabouts. The device also provides activity monitoring and other health metrics. With its stylish design and discrete appearance, the smartwatch can be worn comfortably on the wrist without drawing attention to its medical alert functionality. This integration of advanced technology and essential safety features makes Medical Guardian's smartwatch medical alert an invaluable companion for individuals seeking independence and peace of mind, especially for active seniors and those with chronic health conditions. 4. Fall Detection Technology Falls are a significant concern for many seniors, often leading to serious injuries or prolonged immobility. Fall detection technology is an essential life-saving feature available in some medical alert systems. This technology utilizes sensors to detect sudden movements or impacts associated with falls. When a fall is detected, an automatic alert is sent to the monitoring center or designated emergency contacts. Ideal for: Seniors prone to falls or those with limited mobility. Advantages Immediate assistance in the event of a fall, even if the user is unable to press the emergency button Increased peace of mind for both seniors and their loved ones Disadvantages False alarms can occur due to sudden movements unrelated to falls Not available in all medical alert systems Medical Guardian Package Highlight Medical Guardian's fall detection technology is an innovative solution that offers enhanced safety and peace of mind to its users. Designed to detect falls and automatically trigger an alert, this technology helps determine a fall and emergency assistance is dispatched, even if the user is unable to call for help themselves. No fall detection is 100% accurate, but it is added protection that could save a life. By utilizing advanced sensors and algorithms, the system can accurately distinguish between everyday movements and a fall, minimizing false alarms. Adding fall detection to Medical Guardian's range of medical alert packages is an additional service that comes at an affordable price, providing an extra layer of protection for individuals who are at a higher risk of falling or have specific medical conditions that require close monitoring. The cost for adding fall detection to Medical Guardian's different packages varies depending on the specific plan and customization options. Conclusion Choosing the right medical alert system requires considering activity levels and individual needs. Traditional landline systems are ideal for homebound individuals, while mobile-based systems provide wider coverage for active seniors. Fall detection technology adds an additional layer of safety. Assessing factors such as mobility, lifestyle, and potential health risks will help determine the most suitable option for each person interested in a medical alert system. It is advisable to involve the person using the medical alert device in the decision-making process and consider preferences. Additionally, thoroughly researching different providers, comparing features, and reading customer reviews can assist in making an informed choice. Ultimately, selecting an appropriate medical alert system ensures that seniors or anyone in need of a medical alert device can maintain independence and feel secure knowing that help is just a button press away.

Are you wondering which medical alert company is the safest and best option for you or your loved one? We have a tip for you: look for medical alert providers with the proper certifications. There are a variety of certifications out there, but they aren't required — so if a company has earned some or all of these credentials, this is a good indicator that the medical alert company has quality equipment and a trusted, reliable service.  Certified medical alert companies have gone through rigorous testing to ensure their devices and services meet the highest standards in terms of safety and quality. Medical alert systems are used to monitor and assist individuals in emergency situations, so there isn't room for error. In this article, we'll give you a breakdown of the four most common medical alert certifications and explain why they’re important. We’ll also highlight a top-rated medical alert provider that has all four certifications, so stay tuned.  TMA Five Diamond Certification The Monitoring Association (TMA) is a nonprofit organization that was formed to promote and maintain the highest standards of performance and responsibility among monitoring centers. The organization offers a Five Diamond Monitoring Center Certification program that sets the industry standard for quality assurance, personnel training, and emergency response protocols. The annual certification includes five parts: Agreement to random inspections Commitment to quality customer service Commitment to continual education and testing, including all monitoring operators getting certified with the TMA training course Agreement to adhere to industry standards set through the TMA membership Commitment to reducing the number of false alarms This certification is important for medical alert companies because it ensures their monitoring centers, technology, and personnel are meeting the highest standards of performance and reliability. Electronic Security Association (ESA) Certification The Electronic Security Association (ESA) is a trade organization that provides training and certification for security professionals and companies. They certify companies with all types of products, including home security equipment and medical alert systems. This certification is important for medical alert companies because it demonstrates that the company is up to date with the latest security protocols, has the necessary qualifications and experience, and is able to provide a secure service to its customers. The ESA certification also guarantees that companies are in compliance with local and national security laws and regulations. FM Approved Certification The FM Approved credential is a certification that ensures a company's products are tested and meet expectations of "quality, technical integrity, and performance." The company has a worldwide process that they back with research and rigorous testing, including this five-step process found on FM Approvals' website: Manufacturer request — This involves the manufacturer (or, in this case, the medical alert company) sending approval for a product. It includes all product information and the scope of work. Proposal issue and manufacturer authorization — This step involves the FM Approvals organization sending a proposal letter to the client with additional information, such as cost estimates, required tests, samples needed, etc. Review, testing, and first audit — This involves FM Approvals examining the products and conducting product testing to review quality.  Report, FM approved mark, and listing — This step is completed post-testing and includes sending the results to the manufacturer with the final report, approval guide, online resources, etc.  Surveillance audits — The last step requires that the manufacturer agrees to its facilities maintaining the FM Approved status, which includes surveillance audits. This certification is important for medical alert companies because it guarantees products and processes meet the highest standards. As a consumer wanting a medical alert device as a safety precaution, you want to make sure the company's equipment is just as reliable as its service.  UL Listed Certification Being UL Listed means a medical alert company has met the stringent requirements of Underwriters Laboratory, a global safety consulting and certification company. Companies must adhere to a variety of tests and regulations, ensuring that their products are reliable and safe for use by their customers. The Underwriters Laboratory website says the following about its certification, "The process of evaluating a central station for certification, formally known as Listing, includes UL Solutions staff conducting an on-site examination of the monitoring station facility and operation for compliance with UL 827 and standards related to the category. If the monitoring station is applying for a full-service category, the evaluation will include examples of installed alarm systems. The results of the evaluation are detailed in a report." Being UL Listed ensures the medical alert company's monitoring center is top-notch and 100% ready to assist emergency callers. Some emergency calls may be false alarms, but others may be life-threatening; a medical alert company's monitoring center should always be prepared and ready to assist because you never know when it'll be the latter.  Medical Alert Company Highlight

August 2022 — Best Company recently announced that Medical Guardian received the 2022 Expert's Choice Award. About the Expert’s Choice Award Every year the Best Company vertical expert highlights one company that they think stands out among competitors, regardless of overall category ranking.  With over 14,500 customer reviews on BestCompany.com, Medical Guardian claims the position of our medical alert expert’s choice because of its top-rated equipment, innovative medical alert solutions, and outstanding online reputation.  About Medical Guardian  {%company-card vertical="medical-alert-systems" company="medical-guardian"%} Best Company User Star Rating — 4.5/5 stars Maximum Range from Base Station — 1,300 feet Year Founded — 2006 Medical Guardian offers top-rated, high-quality medical alert equipment for those who need emergency protection on the go as well as at home. Founded in 2006, Medical Guardian has an established reputation for excellent customer service and reliable technology. The company’s monitoring centers are CSAA Five Diamond certified, ESA Security certified, and UL listed. Customers enjoy SOS monitoring 24 hours a day and 7 days a week. With a 4.5 out of 5-star rating, Medical Guardian has consistently held one of our top-rated spots on BestCompany.com.  Customers can expect transparent pricing and services with no setup fees or long-term contracts. Monthly moving prices start at $29.95 per month. Medical Guardian offers several equipment packages for those who prefer an at-home system or a mobile device. The company recently released a new medical alert smartwatch called the MGMove that tracks basic health metrics and makes emergency calls. Medical Guardian also offers fall detection on most plans for an additional $10 per month.  Company insight  “Medical Guardian is honored to be recognized by Best Company as an Expert’s Choice Award winner in the medical alert systems category. This accolade is a testament to the work of dedicated employees. We are driven by our mission to ensure customers continue living a life without limits,” said Geoff Gross, CEO and Founder of Medical Guardian.  “Every 11 seconds, 1 in 4 Americans aged 65+ experience fall-related injuries that require medical attention. Our innovative devices are created to protect our customers in the event of a fall or other medical emergency. Since our partnership began with Best Company in 2016, Medical Guardian has been able to protect over 32,000 lives through our top-rated, innovative devices, and award-winning customer service. We look forward to continuing our partnership with Best Company and protecting more lives.” Experience and accreditation  Medical Guardian has received multiple awards and recognitions for achievements on Best Company. Here are some of the awards Medical Guardian has received in the last year:  2022 Customer Love Us Award — The Customers Love Us Award from Best Company is presented to companies that have a minimum of 50 5-star reviews on their company profile. (See full press release) 2022 Great Quality Award — The Great Quality Award is given to companies that have a minimum of 50 reviews with an average quality sentiment of over 4 out of 5 stars. 2022 Great Value Award — The Great Value Award is given to companies that have a minimum of 50 reviews with an average value sentiment of over 4 out of 5 stars.  Medical Guardian reviews Eighty-seven percent of Medical Guardian reviewers gave the company a four-star or five-star rating. We conducted a review of these reviews given within the last two weeks to pinpoint current company highlights.  In our review, 41 percent of these reviews mention the rapid response time when an emergency response request was activated. Thirty-five percent of these reviews highlighted Medical Guardian’s customer service characterizing the staff as courteous, patient, and helpful. Thirty-two percent mentioned the quality of equipment, ease of use, and reliability. Other common themes related to the pendants being waterproof and portable. Others noted that their equipment and plan seemed affordable.  Here’s a recent positive review from a happy customer: The bottom line  Every second counts when it comes to emergency response. Finding a company to trust with your life or the life of a loved one matters. Evident in its customer reviews, Medical Guardian has shown to be a trusted and reliable company for many seeking independence and peace of mind.  If you are thinking about purchasing a medical alert system, we suggest looking into Medical Guardian to see if it’s a good match for you. 

May 2022 — Best Company recently announced the 10 medical alert companies that earned the Customers Love Us Award in 2022. About this award The Customers Love Us Award from Best Company is presented to companies that have a minimum of 50 5-star reviews on their company profile.  Companies did not have to apply for this award. Companies were selected for this award based on their ability to meet the designated qualifications. Five-star reviews from these companies often focused on quality products and services, quick response times, affordable pricing, and superior customer service.  Award recipients The companies listed below are the recipients of the 2022 Customer Love Us Award. These companies are not listed in any particular order. {%company-card vertical="medical-alert-systems" company="mobilehelp"%} With over 15 years of experience, MobileHelp is a leading provider of medical alert technology. Based in Boca Raton, Florida, the company offers a variety of medical alert systems with no activation or equipment fees, no long-term contracts, and a lifetime warranty on all equipment. {%company-card vertical="medical-alert-systems" company="medical-guardian"%} Medical Guardian enables safe and independent living with its mobile and at-home medical alert equipment. Since 2006, Medical Guardian has been producing top-rated, high-quality equipment ranging from fall detection pendants to multi-functional smartwatches. {%company-card vertical="medical-alert-systems" company="florida-telehealth"%} Flordia Telehealth offers a completely mobile medical alert system with the option for professional monitoring. Customers have the unique option to send alerts to only family members. {%company-card vertical="medical-alert-systems" company="lifefone"%} Since 1976, LifeFone has been offering reliable and affordable medical alert systems that work at home and on the go. LifeFone products are often recommended by hospitals, home health care providers, and geriatric care managers. {%company-card vertical="medical-alert-systems" company="one-call-alert"%} Based in Houston, Texas, One Call Alert is a widely recognized medical alert provider that offers quality service, top-of-the-line equipment, and affordable plans. Customers can choose between an in-home landline, in-home wireless, or a mobile device. {%company-card vertical="medical-alert-systems" company="bluestar-seniortech"%} BlueStar SeniorTech is a veteran-owned and operated company that offers in-home and on-the-go medical alert options. Headquartered in Washington, D.C., BlueStar SeniorTech offers U.S.-based monitoring in every state. {%company-card vertical="medical-alert-systems" company="medical-care-alert"%} Medical Care Alert is a Michigan-based, family-owned company that offers six medical alert plans with the option to add fall detection. The company does not have any long-term contracts, activation fees, or installation costs. {%company-card vertical="medical-alert-systems" company="medical-alert"%} Medical Alert is one of the largest and most trusted medical alert system providers in the industry. For over 18 years, Medical Alert has offered a clean and transparent shopping experience and quality customer service. {%company-card vertical="medical-alert-systems" company="greatcall"%} Founded in 2006, GreatCall offers an all-in-one mobile medical alert device that can be used all over the country. Monitoring fees start at just $19.99 with no long-term contracts. {%company-card vertical="medical-alert-systems" company="lifestation"%} With over 45 of experience, LifeStation offers high-quality products and exceptional services evidenced by its overwhelming number of positive customer reviews. LifeStation’s systems have an impressive battery life of up to five days. Customer service note Medical alert providers with high customer review ratings stand out among the audience of interested buyers. In an industry like medical alert systems, customers’ lives and the lives of their loved ones are at stake. Customers need that confirmation that they’ve purchased reliable equipment paired with a responsive monitoring service.  For those seeking to lead independent and active lifestyles, we recommend these 10 medical alert companies for leading the way in customer satisfaction. 

Medical alert devices have been around for a number of years. These devices are used to alert emergency services in the event of a fall or other crisis. When shopping for a medical alert system, you can choose between an in-home system or an on-the-go device. Basic wearable pendants and buttons connect to the base station or mobile system to call for help when activated.  Medical Guardian has taken several traditional medical alert system offerings, such as 24/7 monitoring and SOS assistance, and integrated them into a sleek-looking smartwatch. On March 1st, 2022, Medical Guardian released the MGMove Smartwatch that allows you to maintain style and convenience without compromising peace of mind.  Watch the video above for an unboxing of the MGMove watch where we cover what's included in your purchase and highlight the top product features. We've also included information about the features, pricing, and setup below.  What is a Medical Alert Smartwatch? A medical alert smartwatch is a wearable device that includes basic tech features for health and wellness along with emergency calling functions. These watches are a popular tool for achieving an active and safe lifestyle while staying connected to loved ones and emergency services.  The MGMove Smartwatch The MGMove is a new wearable device offered by Medical Guardian that helps you stay safe, active, and connected. When you order the watch, you'll receive a charging station and charging cables. The watch carries a full day's charge, allowing you to go about your daily activities without needing to recharge your watch.  The watch offers six available features: an SOS button, weather updates, reminders, speech-to-text, steps tracker, and GPS tracking.  Features  SOS Button: The SOS button is located on the side of the watch, as well as on the swipe-to-alert feature on the top of the watch. This is used to contact the monitoring center. The person wearing the watch will be able to talk with the monitoring center through the watch to receive further assistance when the button is pressed and held for five seconds. Weather Updates: The weather updates will give you an overview of the forecast that day letting you know if you need to prepare for any unexpected weather.  Reminder Notifications: Get daily reminders from your MyGuardian Portal and App. This is helpful for calendar alerts or medication reminders. All notifications are sent 15 minutes before the event unless those settings are changed. Reminders are also stored under the reminders icon.  Speech-to-Text: One of the new Social Circle Apps is the Messages App. The watch is a great communication device for talking with your care circle and loved ones. By simply speaking into the watch, your words will be turned into written text and sent to the named recipient. Steps Tracker: The daily steps tracker is used for setting goals and tracking your progress.  GPS Tracking: Advanced location tracking allows the selected social circle to see the location of their loved one. MGMove uses the 4G LTE network for location accuracy to give you and your loved one's peace of mind. This is great if you worry about getting lost or a loved one wandering.  Pricing  The pricing includes the product lease and monitoring. Medical Guardian provides 24/7 monitoring to connect you in the event of an emergency. to make sure it can properly place an emergency call without sending a false alert. Medical Guardian recommends testing the system once a month.  The three plan options along with their monthly cost breakdown are listed below:  Monthly Plan Quarterly Plan Annual Plan $39.55 per month $39.55 per month $36.62 per month You can purchase a protection plan for $6.99 per month. The protection plan covers product damage, loss, or theft. Medical Guardian will replace your watch as long as you have not tampered with, repaired, or abused the product.  You can also add additional features to your plan such as the Social Circle Apps for $5.00 per month. This gives you access to the Reminders App and Messages App. OnGuard Alerts is another service that notifies you and your Care Circle with real-time texts and emails when there is an emergency.  The OnGuard Alerts is an additional $2.99 per month.  Setup The Medical Guardian device does not require professional installation or setup. Medical Guardian includes detailed instructions on how to turn on the device and enable the cell phone chip. The cellular service enables GPS tracking so emergency services and your care circle can locate you in the event of any emergency.  You also don't need a smartphone or cell phone plan to use the watch. Network coverage is included in the monthly cost.  Is an MGMove Smartwatch right for me? If you are evaluating different medical alert systems, the MGMove is a great place to start. The device is easy to use and discreet enough to blend into your everyday wardrobe. Individuals looking to maintain an active lifestyle can use the MGMove smartwatch to track health goals, stay on schedule, and pursue independent passions. The Medical Guardian watch is a great gift idea for a loved one who wants to be self-reliant and active.  Medical Guardian is a leader in the medical alerts industry with over 13,000 customer reviews on our site and the majority of customers awarding the company five stars. You can read through our Medical Guardian review to learn more about the company that produced the SOS smartwatch.  For more information about Medical Guardian’s MGMove or other trusted products, visit Medical Guardian's profile or call (800) 860-0618.

If you've heard of medical alert systems, you're likely familiar with the common phrase "I've fallen and can't get up!" Originating from a Life Alert commercial in the early 1990s, the company coined the catchy saying and has since been one of the most prominent companies on the market. Aside from its clever marketing, we wondered, "what does Life Alert have to offer?" Has Life Alert earned its top spot in the medical alert industry because its offerings are the most competitive, or is it simply because the company's marketing was so well done that consumers choose it for the sole fact that it's the most well known? Unfortunately, after looking into Life Alert's offerings and reviews, the latter seems to be the most likely. Here at Best Company, we have a list of top-rated medical alert systems. To earn a top spot on that ranking list, a company needs competitive industry offerings, such as an affordable monthly price, quality equipment, a robust equipment warranty, a reasonable contract, and, most importantly, a medical alert company should have positive customer reviews. On our ranking list, 75% of a company's overall score is determined by its customer reviews. Basically, if you don't have positive reviews from your customers, you won't be a highly rated company on BestCompany.com. With more than 80 medical alert companies ranked, Life Alert pops in at position 21. The company not only falls behind its competitors in regards to pricing and other industry offerings, the majority of its customer reviews are also negative. We compare Life Alert against its top 10 competitors below, who are much more affordable, have better overall offerings, and have many more positive reviews, making them the best life alert alternatives on the market. Just because Life Alert is the most well known, that doesn't mean it's the best option. To help you determine which life alert alternative is right for you, we provide a breakdown of the top 10ranked medical alert companies below. We'll also give you a breakdown of Life Alert as well, so you can compare the company against these competitors. These ratings are as of July, 2021.  #1 rated: Medical Guardian #2 rated: MobileHelp #3 rated: One Call Alert #4 rated: BlueStar SeniorTech #5 rated: Medical Alert #6 rated: LifeStation #7 rated: Alert1 #8 rated: Florida Telehealth #9 rated: LifeFone #10 rated: ADT Home Health #21 rated: Life Alert For each company, we'll expand on plan information, contract requirements, equipment warranty lengths, and just about everything you need to know about each company to make an informed decision. First, we'll compare the #1 and #2 ranked medical alert companies, Medical Guardian and MobileHelp, against Life Alert. As you can see in the comparison chart above, Medical Guardian and MobileHelp blow Life Alert out of the water in regards to their overall score and customer review ratings. Nearly 90% of Medical Guardian's and MobileHelp's reviews are 4 and 5 stars, making negative feedback for both companies minimal. Life Alert, on the other hand, has barely any positive reviews, with only 8% of its total reviews being 4 or 5 stars.  Monthly Monitoring Price: $29.95–$44.95 Fall Detection Cost: +$10 per month Equipment Fee: None* Activation Fee: None Contract: None Warranty: Lifetime Extra Protection Warranty: +$6.99 per month Range/Distance from Base Station: 1,300 *The Freedom Guardian and the Mini Guardian have equipment fees #1 rated medical alert company Ranked against more than 80 competitors, Medical Guardian ranks at the top of the charts at #1. Its pricing is on par with competitors, if not better than most. You can choose from multiple plans, giving you the option to choose the more basic package if you're looking for a standard medical alert system, or opting to upgrade to one with more features. Medical guardian equipment is completely free unless you opt for the smartwatch option or the Mini Guardian, and there are no activation fees or long-term contracts. Medical Guardian's offerings are customizable and are some of the best in the industry.  $100 satisfaction guarantee If you purchase Medical Guardian and are not satisfied after 30 days, Best Company will give you $100 — no tricks or loopholes about it. Since Medical Guardian has been ranked #1 on BestCompany.com for years, we've seen the company's reviews continue to outshine the competition and its offerings continue to improve and exceed what else is on the market. Because customers are so happy with Medical Guardian, we wanted to create an extra guarantee for consumers so they could have additional peace of mind. Learn more about our Best Company Guarantee and buy with confidence.  Smartwatch medical alert option If you want your medical alert equipment to go beyond a simple alert button, Medical Guardian is a great option because its medical alert technology is one of the most competitive in the industry. In addition to your typical medical alert button and fall detection options, Medical Guardian also has a smartwatch option that has multiple capabilities, including text-to-speech messaging, reminders and alerts, daily weather information, location tracking, etc.  Nearly 90% of customer reviews are 4 or 5 stars Medical Guardian has some of the best customer reviews we've seen for medical alert companies and any type of company for that matter. With more than 11,000 reviews and 88% of those being 4 or 5 stars, Medical Guardian is at the top of our ranking list for a reason. We analyzed Medical Guardian's reviews and found that the most common feedback for the company included the following: Equipment quality and its ease of use Excellent customer service Fast response times Reasonable pricing Free spouse protection Medical Guardian protects spouses for free. If you purchase a second medical alert pendant, the company will waive the extra monthly monitoring fee. However, extra buttons cost an additional $2.99 per month. Whether you're purchasing Medical Guardian for you, a spouse, your parents, or whoever it may be, you can take advantage of the company's two-for-the-price-of-one discount.  Learn More About Medical Guardian Find out more about Medical Guardian by reading a full write-up of its pros, cons, and recent customer reviews.  Learn More Current Medical Guardian promotion Medical Guardian has a current promotion that gives customers the following: Free month of service Free ground shipping Free lockbox Free additional pendant To redeem the offer, get the four free gifts with the promo code "4FREE." Monthly Monitoring Price: $19.99–$44.95 Fall Detection Cost: +$10 per month Equipment Fee: None Activation Fee: None Contract: None Warranty: Lifetime Extra Protection Warranty: +$5 per month Range/Distance from Base Station: 1,400 feet #2 rated medical alert company MobileHelp is similar to Medical Guardian in that it has multiple medical alert packages, an affordable monthly monitoring fee, no long-term contracts, free spouse protection, and free equipment. $100 satisfaction guarantee We also offer the Best Company Guarantee with MobileHelp. The same conditions apply as we explained with Medical Guardian's offering: if you're not satisfied after 30 days of purchasing MobileHelp's services, Best Company will give you $100.  4.6/5 customer review star rating MobileHelp has more than 10,000 reviews, averaging its star rating at 4.6/5. 92% of MobileHelp's reviews are 4 or 5 stars, making it clear the majority of its customers are happy and satisfied with its services.  Refer-a-friend discount If you refer a friend to MobileHelp, the company will give you a $200 Visa gift card per referral. Keep in mind, your referrals do have to be customers for 60 days or more before you will receive the gift card.  Full suite of certifications Sometimes it's difficult to find certifications for medical alert companies, and customers often wonder if the company has them at all. MobileHelp is completely transparent on its website and notes that it has the following certifications: FDA Registered — FDA Current Good Manufacturing Practice that regulates medical devices.  FCC Certified — Federal Communications Commission certification that ensures wireless signals are legal and approved.  PTCRB — Global cellular certification that ensures equipment meets standards and won't affect cellular networks. UL-1635 — Underwriters Laboratories Certification that regulates the safety of the digital alarm system.  UL-1637 — Underwriters Laboratories Certification that regulates health care signaling equipment.  AT&T Network Certification — Cellular network certification that gives MobileHelp access to the AT&T network. Learn More About MobileHelp Find out more about MobileHelp by reading a full write-up of its pros, cons, and recent customer reviews.  Learn More Next, we'll compare the #3 and #4 ranked medical alert companies, One Call Alert and BlueStar SeniorTech, against Life Alert. As you'll see below, Life Alert's customer review scores are concerningly low compared to all of the other medical alert providers. It's difficult to trust a company when the majority of its customer review feedback is negative.  One Call Alert and BlueStar SeniorTech both have high star ratings, close to 4.5/5, which is much better than Life Alert's 1.4/5. Monthly Monitoring Price: $19.95–$44.95 Fall Detection Cost: +$10 per month Equipment Fee: None Activation Fee: None Contract: None Warranty: None Extra Protection Warranty: +$5 per month Range/Distance from Base Station: 1,300 feet #3 rated company With a few hundred reviews, One Call Alert has a 4.7/5 customer review star rating. More than 80% of its reviews are 5 stars, with customers appreciating its prompt service, stellar customer service, and quality equipment.  Multiple payment options One Call Alert has flexible payment options, making it simple for customers to select the plan that works best for them. Monthly, quarterly, semi-annual, and annual payments are available. You'll save money if you go with the annual plans.  Prices subject to change Although One Call Alert has competitive prices, the company notes on its website that "prices [are] subject to change without notice." This means One Call Alert does not offer a price-lock guarantee and if the provider decides to increase its prices, it isn't required to notify customers.  Learn More About One Call Alert Find out more about One Call Alert by reading a full write-up of its pros, cons, and recent customer reviews.  Learn More $100 satisfaction guarantee The Best Company Guarantee also applies to One Call Alert. You can purchase One Call Alert's services knowing you have extra protection with our $100 guarantee on top of One Call Alert's 30-day money-back guarantee.  Monthly Monitoring Price: $23.95–$44.95 Fall Detection Cost: +$5 per month Equipment Fee: None Activation Fee: None Contract: None Warranty: Lifetime Extra Protection Warranty: None Range/Distance from Base Station: 600 feet #4 rated company BlueStar SeniorTech is ranked fourth among our top-rated companies. Even though the company only has around 80 consumer reviews, more than 70% of its reviews are 5 stars, demonstrating a solid sample of satisfied customers.  Discount for veterans Veterans founded BlueStar SeniorTech, and they are passionate about giving back. If you're a veteran, you can receive 10% off any of BlueStar SeniorTech's products and services.  Competitive rates for fall detection Typically, medical alert companies charge $10 extra a month for fall detection capabilities. BlueStar SeniorTech charges half of that, making its fall detection one of the most affordable rates on the market.  Stylish and discreet medical alert watch One reason BlueStar SeniorTech stands out against its competitors is its sleek medical alert watch. It's one of the most unique medical alert options on the market. It has a classic watch design with medical alert capabilities. You'd never know it was a medical alert device by looking at it, which is great for customers looking for a medical alert option that is discreet as well as functional.  Learn More About BlueStar SeniorTech Find out more about BlueStar SeniorTech by reading a full write-up of its pros, cons, and recent customer reviews. Learn More The next two Life Alert alternatives are Medical Alert and LifeStation. Medical Alert ranks #5, and LifeStation ranks #6 on our medical alert rankings chart. Both companies have more than 1,000 reviews with the majority of the reviews being 4 and 5 stars. We'll break down each company's offerings below. Monthly Monitoring Price: $19.95–$42.95 Fall Detection Cost: +$10 per month Equipment Fee: None Activation Fee: None Contract: None Warranty: Lifetime Extra Protection Warranty: Free (with purchase of fall detection) Range/Distance from Base Station: 600 feet Free protection plan if you purchase fall detection Most medical alert companies offer protection plans, but they often charge at least an extra $5 per month for the service. Medical Alert offers a free protection plan if you purchase fall detection for any product. This is especially convenient since most customers are interested in purchasing fall detection anyways. Next-day delivery If you want Medical Alert's equipment as soon as possible, the company offers overnight shipping so you'll receive your package the next day and can have medical alert coverage almost immediately.  Multiple payment options This is somewhat common within the medical alert industry, but Medical Alert offers a variety of plan options that allow you to pay monthly, semiannually, or annually. If you pay annually, you'll be paying less than you would if you opt for the month-to-month package. You also receive free shipping and a free lockbox if you pay annually.  Medical Alert mobile app Not all medical alert companies have their own mobile app to pair with their services. However, Medical Alert has a mobile app that allows you to check the medical alert device's status and receive push notifications when the customer is using the device. The app also shows if the device is in the middle of a test or if it's an actual triggered emergency.  Medical Alert's mobile app is great for loved ones or caregivers who want to keep an eye on the medical alert user. Lastly, the mobile app allows for multiple subscribers, so if multiple loved ones want access in addition to a caregiver, that's a possibility.  Learn More About Medical Alert Find out more about Medical Alert by reading a full write-up of its pros, cons, and recent customer reviews. Learn More Monthly Monitoring Price: $21.95–$37.95 Fall Detection Cost: +$10 per month Equipment Fee: None Activation Fee: None Contract: None Warranty: Lifetime Extra Protection Warranty: +$5 per month Range/Distance from Base Station: 500 feet Voice prompts for battery level notifications The majority of medical alert companies have two-way voice technology, but they don't have voice-activated prompts for alerts such as battery notifications. LifeStation's medical alert pendant includes automatic voice prompts that give you battery-level updates. so you never have to worry about it dying before you're notified of the battery being low.  Lightweight button For most medical alert users, size and convenience is an important factor when selecting a medical alert button. LifeStation has a miniature lightweight button that weighs less than half an ounce. This means you won't be distracted by a bulky pendant, whether you're wearing it as a necklace or watch. Hopefully, it'll be small enough that you won't even notice it's there most of the time. Positive reviews LifeStation has more than 2,000 reviews on BestCompany.com. Of those reviews, more than 80% are 4 or 5 stars. Customers are happy enough with the company's products and services that negative reviews are minimal.  Partnership with Uber Health LifeStation is partnered with Uber Health to make sure medical alert users have transportation to get to their appointments. LifeStation's care specialists book rides to and from the user's appointment to make the process as seamless as possible. LifeStation's team will also stay on the phone with medical alert users if they desire until the ride is successfully completed. Learn More About LifeStation Find out more about LifeStation by reading a full write-up of its pros, cons, and recent customer reviews. Learn More Alert1 and Florida Telehealth have fewer reviews than the previously compared companies, but it is a big enough sample size to see general feedback from consumers. Florida Telehealth is especially impressive with 99% of its customer reviews being 4 or 5 stars. Find out more about both companies below.  Monthly Monitoring Price: $19.95–$52.95 Fall Detection Cost: +$8 per month Equipment Fee: None Activation Fee: $19.95 Contract: None Warranty: Extended Extra Protection Warranty: +$8 per month Range/Distance from Base Station: 600 feet Cheaper if you pay for 10 months at a time If you pay for 10 months of service at a time, Alert1 will waive the $19.95 activation fee. All package prices are also more affordable if you opt for the 10-month plan. If you compare a month-to-month plan to a 10-month plan, you'll save upwards of $100. Alert1 also offers a free month of service and free shipping if you pay for the longer plan.  Competitive pricing for fall detection Alert1 only charges $8 extra per month for fall detection. Most competitors charge $10 per month, so Alert1's pricing is a bit cheaper.  Compatible with pacemakers All Alert1 medical alert pendants are compatible with pacemakers. This is convenient for any customers who already have pacemakers and want to continue to use them with their medical alert system.  Refer-a-Friend discount Alert1 offers a referral program for all customers. If you refer a friend, both of you will receive one month of service for free. The discount will be applied at the end of your billing cycle. If you're enrolled in the 10-month plan, you may have to wait quite a while to receive the discount.  Learn More About Alert1 Find out more about Alert1 by reading a full write-up of its pros, cons, and recent customer reviews.  Learn More Monthly Monitoring Price: $39–$85 Fall Detection Cost: +$10 per month Equipment Fee: $99 Activation Fee: None Contract: None Warranty: 1 year Extra Protection Warranty: +$5 per month Range/Distance from Base Station: Cellular only Family member text alerts Florida Telehealth's medical alert product is called RescueTouch and includes text message capabilities so loved ones and/or caregivers can receive updates in an emergency.  Family monitored medical alert option In addition to a professionally monitored plan, Florida Telehealth also has a family monitored plan. If you choose this plan, rather than having a professional monitoring center respond to your emergency calls 24/7, you select family members to be notified instead.   Fall detection available Florida Telehealth has fall detection available for family monitored plans as well as professionally monitored plans. It's not an add-on similar to what other medical alert companies do; the company instead offers fall detection as part of its more robust plans. You can't choose to opt-out of fall detection for a cheaper monthly fee.  Discounts available Florida Telehealth offers discounts for AARP members, anyone with disabilities, nurses, first responders, as well as veterans. Learn More About Florida Telehealth Find out more about Florida Telehealth by reading a full write-up of its pros, cons, and recent customer reviews.  Learn More The final two Life Alert alternatives are LifeFone and ADT Home Health. Both have mostly positive customer reviews and solid medical alert offerings we'll discuss below.   Monthly Monitoring Price: $24.95–$39.95 Fall Detection Cost: +$5–$10 per month Equipment Fee: None Activation Fee: None Contract: None Warranty: Lifetime Extra Protection Warranty: +$5 per month Range/Distance from Base Station: 1,300 feet High star rating LifeFone has a 4.6/5 star rating with 78% of its reviews coming in at 5 stars. Its customer reviews highlight the company as a great medical alert provider with an impressive and friendly staff, rapid responses, versatile equipment and plan packages, and more.  Free spouse protection Similar to other leaders in the industry, LifeFone offers spouse protection for free. If you purchase an additional medical alert device, LifeFone will offer monthly monitoring completely for free so you don't have to pay an additional fee every month.  Optional daily check-in You can opt into a daily check-in service that will ensure a Lifefone agent will give a call to the medical alert customer every day. This can be a simple check to see if the user is okay or it can be customized further to be more of a daily reminder call for whatever you'd like. You can also decide which time of day you'd like to receive the call. You can respond to the call by simply pressing a button on your base unit so it doesn't have to be a time-consuming call.  Lifetime price and equipment guarantee Lifefone offers a lifetime price and equipment guarantee for all of its customers. This means your monthly price will never increase unless you add additional services. Your equipment will also be ensured for as long as you have it, so you don't have to worry about a short equipment warranty expiring during the lifetime of your medical alert service.  Current LifeFone promotion LifeFone has a current promotion that gives customers the following: 1 month free Free shipping Free lockbox Free activation Price-lock guarantee To redeem the offer, use code Safe20.  Learn More About LifeFone Find out more about LifeFone by reading a full write-up of its pros, cons, and recent customer reviews.  Learn More Monthly Monitoring Price: $29.99–$39.99 Fall Detection Cost: +$10 per month Equipment Fee: None Activation Fee: None Contract: None Warranty: Lifetime Extra Protection Warranty: +$5 per month Range/Distance from Base Station: 600 feet ForeveRate™ guarantee ADT Home Health offers what it calls its ForeveRate™ guarantee. This ensures your monthly rate will never increase, no matter how long you have ADT's services.  Free next-day shipping As long as your order is placed by 2 PM, ADT Home Health will ship your medical alert system package by the next business day.  Home temperature monitoring A unique offering ADT has is home temperature monitoring for all its medical alert packages. This is great for customers who are also interested in home automation.  Multiple payment plans ADT Home Health gives customers a discount if paid quarterly or annually. You still have the choice to pay month-to-month, but it is cheaper if you pay for more months of service upfront.  Learn More About ADT Home Health Find out more about ADT Home Health by reading a full write-up of its pros, cons, and recent customer reviews.  Learn More Monthly Monitoring Price: $49.95–$89.95 Fall Detection Cost: No fall detection available Equipment Fee: $95–$198 Activation Fee: None Contract: 3 years Warranty: Lifetime Extra Protection Warranty: Not available Range/Distance from Base Station: 800 feet Poor customer reviews Life Alert's review score is 206.9% lower than the average review score of the top-recommended medical alert company, Medical Guardian. With more than 100 reviews, Life Alert's customer review score is 1.4 out of 5, with 83% of its reviews being 1 star. In a nutshell, customers aren't happy with Life Alert. The most common complaint is the company's three-year contract.  Out of all of the four Life Alert alternatives we've discussed above, none of them require a contract, whereas Life Alert binds customers into a three-year contract, which is almost unheard of in the medical alert industry. . . almost.   Three-year contract             Customers are being locked into this 36-month contract and they aren't happy. With the majority of medical alert companies having month-to-month plans, it's disappointing Life Alert forces its customers into a lengthy commitment.  No fall detection available Life Alert is one of the few medical alert companies that does not offer fall detection. With fall detection being one of the main selling points of medical alert devices, Life Alert falls short by not offering this feature. Fall detection is the medical alert capability that will notify the emergency monitoring center if a fall occurs while the user is wearing a fall detection pendant. Without this, medical alert users have to press the medical alert pendant manually, which may be impossible if the user is unable to move or is currently unconscious.  If you want extra peace of mind, we suggest selecting a medical alert company with fall detection capabilities, especially if the potential medical alert customer is ever left alone.  Limited online information Life Alert has an outdated way of doing business. To receive pricing information, you have to request a brochure and you can't even request that the brochure be emailed to you; you have to wait for the company to mail the brochure to you and you must do this by calling Life Alert directly. This not only makes the researching and purchasing process more lengthy, but it's much more difficult when compared to all the Life Alert alternatives we've discussed in this article who state all of their pricing and package details online and even allow online ordering.  Life Alert's website is also extremely outdated and provides little information. Unless you have the time to call and request a brochure and wait for it to be delivered, which may take weeks, Life Alert likely isn't worth it.   Customer Review: Ginger Barnes from Boulder, CO "I called Life Alert twice to get some pricing as my mom just passed away and I needed something for my dad. They hung up on me twice because I would not give them my full address. I just had 2 questions and they would not answer them for me — I was told they are in 'the free brochure they will mail me.' So ridiculous. They just lost a customer."