Life Alert Logo

Life Alert

star star star star star

6.7

Overall Score

LAST UPDATED: March 27th, 2024

Life Alert Emergency Response has been a pioneer of the medical alert system industry since its start in 1987. Popularized by its "Help! I've fallen and I can't get up!" ad campaign, the Life Alert system has become a household name; the brand is so synonymous with medical alert systems, that many know the medical alert industry simply as the Life Alert industry.

Below we have provided you with the Good, Bad, and Bottom Line about Life Alert in order to give you a quick breakdown of the facts to help you decide if Life Alert is the right medical alert system for you or your loved one.

thumb_up

The Good

  • CSAA Five Diamond Certified
  • Free Shipping and Equipment Warranty
  • Life Alert Monitoring Center
  • Successful Services
  • Family Notifications
  • Multiple Emergency Services

CSAA Five Diamond Certified

Most medical alert companies should be CSAA five diamond certified if they want their monitoring center and services to be as safe and efficient as possible. The certification implies the company maintains a high-quality call center service.

It's not a requirement to obtain this certification in order to operate, so many medical alert providers aren't certified. It's comforting to know Life alert is certified and cares about taking those additional steps to ensure its medical alert services are exceeding standards. 

Free Shipping and  Equipment Warranty

Life Alert offers free shipping and a free equipment warranty. However, the duration of the warranty is unclear, so you may need to pay for an equipment replacement after a certain period of time. 

Life Alert Monitoring Center 

Being one of the largest medical alert companies in the industry, Life Alert operates its services with its own monitoring center. A significant amount of medical alert companies will contract with a third-party monitoring center. Having the response center be under Life Alert's direct attention likely makes for a more hands-on approach, which could be comforting to medical alert users and their loved ones. 

Successful Services

Since 2008, Life Alert's services have helped save more than 500,000 people. Having a successful medical alert service for so long and having the live-saving statistics to prove it is comforting to potential customers looking to put their safety in Life Alert's hands. 

Family Notifications

At the push of a button, the customer's emergency contact, along with an emergency dispatch unit, will be immediately notified of the problem. Your selected contact can be anyone, whether that is a family member, a caregiver, or a trusted neighbor.

Multiple Emergency Services

Life Alert also offers services for a host of situations aside from an occasional medical emergency. These include fire protection, carbon monoxide gas protection, home intrusion, mobile tracking through GPS, and a cell phone app. These services aren't just for seniors, either. 

thumb_down

The Bad

  • Three-Year Contract
  • Expensive Service 
  • No Automatic Fall Detection
  • Few Equipment Details

Three-Year Contract

With a three-year contract, Life Alert locks customers into one of the longest contracts in the industry. Top competitors offer contracts that operate from month to month, which provides consumers the peace of mind of not having to buy out of a contract.

Having such a long contract in an industry that doesn't typically require them is concerning. The company's contract is also one of the most common Life Alert complaints among the majority of its customer reviews. Overall, consumers on our site are not happy with the long-term contract, and they find it difficult — and sometimes impossible — to get out of Life Alert's contract. 

Expensive Service

Because Life Alert is so well established in the industry, the company does not frequently rely on or offer discounts on its products and services. Although the company lists that it offers free equipment, shipping, and a warranty on its website, the Life Alert cost is one of the more expensive on the market.

Many medical alert companies have a similar offering of free equipment, free shipping, and a free warranty, but they also include no long-term contracts, free activation, and affordable monthly monitoring (as little as $19.95 per month). Life Alert, on the other hand, requires a three-year contract, charges upwards of $70 per month, and calls for a hefty activation fee of nearly $100.

Many Life Alert reviews also note that the company increases its prices without notice and relies on locking customers into a long-term contract of three years. We suggest making sure a long-term contract isn't something that is a deal-breaker for you if you're interested in Life Alert's services.

No Automatic Fall Detection

Many medical alert systems in the industry today offer automatic fall detection. Automatic fall detection is a medical alert capability that will immediately notify the medical alert company's monitoring center if a pendant wearer experiences a fall, even if they cannot press the button themselves. It's a way to give users peace of mind that they do not have to do anything on their part if they experience a fall; as long as you have on the wearable device, the fall will trigger help and the medical alert company will take care of contacting emergency responders.

Life Alert does not currently offer any products with fall detection capability. This is definitely a con of Life Alert, especially since most medical alert companies offer fall detection features. 

Few Equipment Details

The website offers next to no information on equipment details or company policies. In comparison to other companies that offer transparent details on multiple medical alert devices, this is concerning. 

According to the company's website, a Life Alert medical alert device does include the typical base station and a help button that can be worn as a pendant or a wristband, a backup battery life of 72 hours, and a U.S.-based monitoring service. It's also noted you have your choice of landline or cellular service, but no additional details are listed regarding package or equipment details.

There is no information on other medical alert service features such as two-way communication or a GPS unit built in for tracking. The website says there is on-the-go protection if you push the button on a "special cell phone button" but it's unclear what that is and if it is just referring to the Life Alert app you can navigate from your own mobile device.

To find additional information, you need to request a brochure. You can't request the brochure online or have it emailed to you; you instead have to call the company, talk to a representative, and request that a brochure be sent to you in the mail. By the time you receive the brochure, you could've already heavily researched, ordered, and received a medical alert system from another company that is more transparent about its services and has a more up-to-date process.

Most medical alert companies are upfront about their equipment and offerings online, even allowing orders to be made directly online, so it is worrying that Life Alert is selective about what little information it does share on its website and it's impossible to order unless you call the company. Unfortunately, if you're looking for convenience, that doesn't seem to be Life Alert's strong suit. 

View Best Medical Alert Companies

gavel

The Bottom Line

While Life Alert as a company has many positives such as the respected CSAA Five Diamond Certification, it does carry a high installation fee, hefty long-term contracts (three years), and average system features. 

Life Alert's business model seems to be similar to what it was when it first began. As technology has advanced and other capabilities have surfaced with other medical alert companies, Life Alert seems to instead be keeping its medical alert services similar to what it's always been rather than trying to improve and expand its offerings. For example, other medical alert providers have things such as automatic fall detection, advanced equipment with medical reminder functionality, medical alert smartwatches, etc.

Although its services are clearly effective and get the job done, for how much the company charges, we wish the company would expand its business model to include better services for a cheaper price point, as its competitors have done. 

Read Life Alert reviews below to see what customers have to say about Life Alert's medical alert systems and customer service. 

View Best Medical Alert Companies

Was this content helpful?
thumb_up Yes thumb_down No

not_listed_location

Life Alert Frequently Asked Questions

Are Life Alert's medical alert devices waterproof?

All Life Alert pendants and buttons are fully waterproof to ensure you can use them in the shower/bathtub or outdoor on a rainy day. Life Alert also developed an exclusive Shower/Help Button for better protection in the shower, bathtubs, bathrooms, and bedrooms. In addition, all pendants and buttons do not need to be ever charged, or plugged in, so you are safe with them in the shower.

When will I receive my Life Alert system?

Life Alert offers free UPS ground shipping. The shipping can be upgraded for a fee for a 2-day or overnight delivery at customer request.

How much does Life Alert’s equipment cost?

There is no need to buy the equipment. It is given for free for the duration of the service. In addition, the UPS ground shipping is also free of charge.

How often do I need to charge the pendants and On-the-Go devices?

Life Alert is the only company that offers pendants, buttons and on-the-go devices with GPS that never need charging. They last up to 10 years. That means you are truly protected 24/7.

Star Rating

info

4.9

star star star star star

488 Reviews

Review Breakdown

5 grade

67%

4 grade

4%

3 grade

1%

2 grade

2%

1 grade

26%

Sentiment Criteria

Value

star star star star star_border

Quality

star star star star star_border

Service

star star star star star_border

Trustworthiness

star star star star star_border
cancel

Filter by:

arrow_drop_down

Sort by:

arrow_drop_down
info
bookmark

Featured Review

star star star star star

Sunday Ordinson Los Angeles, CA

These people should get a medal of honor. They saved my Nana's life, and it was because they were so fast to get to the door. Her button got the ambulance there super fast... those precious seconds the doctor said if she would of been unable to get to hospital any slower, she would not of made it. She had a stroke... shes doing ok now but the thing is buying time with my nana is priceless... im just so thankful.

8 months ago

bookmark

Featured Review

check_circle

Review Source

star star star star star

perla Barrios Canyon Country, CA

I cannot emphasize enough how much Life Alert has helped me and my family. My mother is getting older and has mobility issues, so we were always concerned about her falling when she was home alone. We tried other medical alert systems, but they just didn't provide the level of reliability and peace of mind that Life Alert has.

11 months ago

check_circle

Review Source

star star star star star

Stephanie Cicilline Given

After the sales call with credit card provided for equipment shipment, too many calls to confirm shipping info. A workday in a classroom. Wasn’t able to answer calls. One call with message requesting confirmation of info, would have been helpful. So many calls to confirm again, was not helpful. Testing units was easy. Dispatchers were professional and pleasant. Rep who worked me through testing- Cassidy, was knowledgable and patient. A pleasure!

1 month ago

check_circle

Review Source

star star star star star

Patrick Caputo Staten Island, NY

My Mom called first. She could not say enough about Lauren who answered Mom’s every question. I followed up and had the pleasure of speaking to Lauren as well. I run the service division for a large corporation so I know great service when I experience it. I feel compelled to say that Lauren provided us both with the best customer service I have ever encountered. Outstanding! This employee exemplifies what customer service should be. Pleasant, Knowledgeable and Precise Lauren explain ed life alerts terms and conditions with ease. I am looking forward to receiving the equipment and working together with Lauren and the team to provide Mom with a More confident and safer lifestyle with life alert on her side.

2 months ago

star star star star star

Carolyn Preston

I liked the service given with the directions given with excellent directions and explanations of the use and all it does

18 hours ago

check_circle

Review Source

star star star star star

Lisa Torch

Very thorough explanation of services and costs, excellent customer service and kind, friendly people on the other end of the line.

1 week ago

check_circle

Review Source

star star star star star

Virginia

Lennie was a patient teacher . Now I am ready to use the equipment if need be. Meanwhile I am trying to be careful but I do hope eventually to walk outside

1 week ago

check_circle

Review Source

star star star star star

Harry Bracy Gaston, SC

The support and set up staff was exceptional. A young lady named Bonnie was a terrific representative for Life Alert. She could not have been more pleasant to deal with. Thank you

1 month ago

check_circle

Review Source

star star star star star

Karen Welch Lincoln, CA

Lori M represented your company with professionalism. The best part was her compassion. She made me feel special. Lori explained everything and made it all easy to understand. Because of Lori I feel secure about the equipment and the people behind the scenes.

1 month ago

check_circle

Review Source

star star star star star

Pat Williams CA

Nicolette was warm, friendly, extremely informative, caring. She has already given me a huge sense of security from this program. She is a gem on your staff and does her job as if her customers were as important as family. Had I had doubts, she would have done away with them!

1 month ago

star star star star star

Jennifer Cobb Valley Center, CA

Considerate service given this was regarding service for my ill father. I had expectations of receiving the equipment quickly and the customer service reps worked to fulfill that request. They set expectations and answered all my questions.

1 month ago

check_circle

Review Source

star star star star star

Blue Montgomery, AL

The life Alert agent, Julie C, was so helpful in answering all our questions. She made the experience of learning about the service and how everything works and getting the service ordered a pleasant one. It also reflects well that the company employees have such a helpful attitude and demeanor amongst all the various people I have talked with during this decision making process.

2 months ago

check_circle

Review Source

star star star star star

Ruth K

Customer service agent very polite and professional. Made it very easy to set up my Life Alert system. Now I can feel secure living alone.

1 week ago

check_circle

Review Source

star star star star star

Katlego Arno Otan Ayegbaju, OS

Life Alert proved invaluable when a kitchen accident left me injured and unable to reach the phone. Their quick response summoned help, preventing a potential crisis. Grateful for their service!

1 month ago

star star star star star

Clara Expert New York, NY

Life Alert proved invaluable when a kitchen accident left me injured and unable to reach the phone. Their quick response summoned help, preventing a potential crisis. Grateful for their service!

1 month ago

check_circle

Review Source

star star star star star

Helen Jane Peppe Buffalo, NY

I can’t answer all of these questions yet as I don’t have the product but customer service has been excellent this far into the process regarding efficiency, knowledge, and care.

1 month ago

star star star star star

Bill Brooks Detroit, MI

Very helpful! Explained everything succinctly and sounded as they really cared to make sure everything goes smoothly. Enjoyable to talk to and I could feel the caring through the phone.

1 month ago

check_circle

Review Source

star star star star star

Faith R Odit Pulaski, NY

I just joined today, the people I have spoke with have been very helpful and pleasant. They have given me the information that I needed,and have answered all of my questions. Have given me phone numbers to call if I need to contact you. Bob was fantastic with all the info. Was a great 👍 experience. Faith

2 months ago

check_circle

Review Source

star star star star star

Jacqueline D.cad911

Candace was amazing. Professional, competent, friendly. Great seamless experience in set up

5 days ago

check_circle

Review Source

star star star star star

Julia Cutshall King

Jessica was excellent in walking us through the process of setting up the equipment and answering all of our questions. Couldn’t be more pleased.

2 weeks ago

check_circle

Review Source

star star star star star

Lisa Memphis, TN

Marie was very helpful and answered all the questions we had. She helped assure my mother that Life Alert would be there for her whenever she needed.

2 weeks ago

check_circle

Review Source

star star star star star

Merel Harrison

When I called , they got right to the point, got the equipment inventoried and set up. The didn't rush through and had time for questions.

3 weeks ago

check_circle

Review Source

star star star star star

Bonnie

Jennifer was very friendly, explained everything to us so we could understand, very patient, and definitely knows her stuff

3 weeks ago

check_circle

Review Source

star star star star star_border

Mary Esperance, NY

I feel the operators answering the phone could talk a bit slower, as I was having a hard time understanding them. I'm setting this up for my mother and worry she won't be able to understand

1 month ago

star star star star star

Becky Satryan Irwin, PA

Just signed up .. reached out over 6 months ago .. called them today and am already set up. Easy set up and helpful reps. So far I’m sold .. would like to be surveyed again in 6 months, one year, etc .

2 months ago

star star star star star

Deb B Clintonville, WI

Every individual I spoke with was amazing!! They explained everything in detail and made my experience pleasurable. I can’t thank you enough for all these excellent customer service reps. Debra Borst

2 months ago Edited January 17, 2024

check_circle

Review Source

star star star star star_border

Lester Hardesty Los Angeles, CA

The people that explained the product were very nice and informative. In the beginning it felt a little pushy and I was defensive but after I reviewed the literature and asked questions believe the product and services will be a good fit. We haven’t received the products yet but if given a chance will review actual products after a couple months of use.

3 months ago

check_circle

Review Source

star star star star_border star_border

Ldmm

The sign up was ridiculously long. No online option. It takes 3 phone calls to do. One to sign up - which is not quick. One to review everything discussed during the sign up and pay call. And a third to confirm with the shipping department. If you aren’t available for all of the 3 calls - your life alert doesn’t ship out - even if you requested $60 overnight shipping. I had to leave work to answer the call to ensure that my Mom’s life alert order would ship that day. Not good since I’m the one paying for it. Why do 3 different people need to speak & review with the customer? It is a labor intensive process for your company that if streamlined, could make you more $ and then possibly you could cut the cost to customers. I almost cancelled the whole thing and ordered her an Apple Watch with fall detection and user health info sharing - which I could order online in 2 minutes and then pick up and set it up all in the same day. Your company needs to make the process easier for the customer. This is a review of the sign up and purchase process only.

3 months ago

star star star star star

D Rowe

It offers a way for dad to communicate if something goes wrong.

5 days ago

star star star star star

Clara DiTommaso

Very informative and looking forward to use the helpful features

1 week ago

star star star star star

Lacy Clearwater Gilbert, AZ

Life Alert became our guardian angel when my grandmother fell at home. She pressed her pendant, and help arrived swiftly. Life Alert's expertise in handling medical emergencies and their unwavering commitment to their users was evident. Thanks to them, my grandma received timely medical attention, preventing further complications. We can't express our gratitude enough for this lifesaving service.

4 months ago

star star star star star

Shannon Jaji Jakarta, JK

When my father suffered a sudden heart attack, Life Alert was his lifeline. He pressed the button, and within minutes, paramedics were at our door. Their quick response saved his life. Life Alert's expertise in handling medical emergencies and their commitment to providing immediate assistance made all the difference. Thanks to them, my dad made a full recovery, and we'll forever be grateful for their service.

4 months ago

star star star star star

Chad Techounda Amsterdam, NH

When I reached my mid-seventies, I became acutely aware of the vulnerabilities age brought with it. Many of my peers talked about their fear of being alone in an emergency, and I shared their sentiment. Then my daughter introduced me to Life Alert. Initially, I was hesitant, fearing another complicated gadget. But its simplicity stunned me. One button, and I'm connected to help. Since then, my daily routines have regained a sense of normalcy. I garden, read, and even dance, knowing that if a moment of distress comes, I'm not truly alone. Life Alert hasn't just given me security; it's rejuvenated my spirit and zest for life. To other seniors out there: it's never too late to embrace safety and independence in one go.

7 months ago

star star star star star

Chris Wallace Glendale, CA

Before introducing Life Alert into our family, the constant worry about the safety of my aging parents was a heavy weight on my shoulders. My father had experienced a fall previously, and the sheer thought of it happening again, possibly without anyone around, was haunting. Enter Life Alert, and it’s been nothing short of a transformative experience. The convenience and assurance it offers are unparalleled. The single-button design is user-friendly, even for someone like my mom, who often finds technology intimidating. In our experience, upon activation, the response is swift and efficient. It's evident that their 24/7 monitoring team genuinely cares about their users. Beyond the physical safety it provides, the emotional peace of mind it has brought our family is immeasurable. Now, when I'm at work or even on vacation, I'm secure in the knowledge that my parents have a direct lifeline to immediate assistance should they ever need it. The freedom it offers them, and the relief it brings me, makes Life Alert one of the most invaluable investments we've made. To anyone considering Life Alert for their loved ones, I say without hesitation: it's a game changer. The peace and security it's brought our family is worth its weight in gold.

7 months ago

star star star star star

Noemi Gunderson-Smith Salt Lake City, UT

Life Alert played a vital role in ensuring the well-being of my grandparents during their old age. As they faced health challenges, this remarkable service proved to be a lifeline, granting them immediate access to medical assistance with just a push of a button. The peace of mind it offered to our family was immeasurable, knowing that help was always available. Life Alert's highly trained staff responded promptly to emergencies, swiftly dispatching medical professionals. This invaluable support allowed my grandparents to maintain their independence, while we knew they were in safe hands. Life Alert undoubtedly enhanced their quality of life and eased our concerns during their golden years.

8 months ago

Life Alert Logo

Reply from Life Alert

Dear Noemi, thank you for your kind words. Life Alert invests in its products and in all its employees, dispatchers and staff. We also do not outsource our monitoring dispatch center like others do, and we are one of only two medical alert companies that earned the prestigious 5-Diamond award with TMA (The Monitoring Association). But most importantly, we care about our members and their families and have been bringing peace of mind for over 37 years.

Aug. 1st, 2023

star star star star star

Larry Solomon Salt Lake City, UT

As a senior citizen, I cannot express enough gratitude for my favorite medical device. This device has truly been a lifesaver, providing me with independence and peace of mind. Its user-friendly design and intuitive controls make it easy for me to monitor my health parameters on a daily basis. With accurate readings and real-time alerts, it has helped me stay proactive in managing my well-being. The device's portability and durability ensure that I can take it with me wherever I go. It has become an indispensable tool in my healthcare routine, and I highly recommend it to fellow seniors looking to maintain their health with confidence. Go Life alert Go!

8 months ago

check_circle

Review Source

star star star star star

Dana White Eaton Rapids, MI

Amy did a superb job So happy with how she handled everything with my mom Sharon Thank you for your service 😊

3 weeks ago

check_circle

Review Source

star star star star star

Deborah Fincher Springfield, MO

The lady who helped us with the setup, Bonnie, was very knowledgeable and helpful. Very kind and patient.

3 weeks ago

check_circle

Review Source

star star_border star_border star_border star_border

Danny Scotti

I hope your system works much better than the people I had to speak to on the phone mostly unprofessional very confusing. Say that again very confusing. I almost canceled twice while talking to the people because I thought they were all knuckleheads and I’m gonna trust them with someone’s life, still shaking my head at this

4 weeks ago Edited March 1, 2024

Life Alert Logo

Reply from Life Alert

Dear Danny, thank you for your feedback. We had upper management reach out to you. Rest assured our equipment is top of the line and your loved ones are fully protected, and it has been proven that we save a life every 11 minutes.

Mar. 1st, 2024

star star star star star

Elizabeth McCormick

The young lady who helped my Mother & myself couldn't have been nicer! Very helpful & patient. So glad my Mom got Life Alert, it's a blessing!

1 month ago

check_circle

Review Source

star star star star star

Mark Warsaw, IN

Life Alert representatives were very helpful and answered all of our questions. They explained services that we didn’t realize were available.

1 month ago

check_circle

Review Source

star star star star star

Martha Kilgore Jasper, TN

I like everything about Life Alert. Everyone I have spoken with have been kind, courteous, patient, compassionate and very knowledgeable

1 month ago

star star star star star

Mary Meuwissen Minneapolis, MN

Excellent service! A joy to work with Bill and manager. They were informative, polite and Great Americans! Exceptional Experience. Thank you Mary Meuwissen

2 months ago

star star star star star

Zay Aero Valley Stream, NY

Linda and Marie have been the best people to help me navigate on how to take care of my father after falling. They’re extremely helpful and patient.

2 months ago

check_circle

Review Source

star star star star star_border

Jim Dermody Cocoa, FL

Audio from Life Alert device speakers is difficult for Dolores to understand. She can understand audio from her cell phone. I hope Life Alert can provide cell phone quality audio in the future.

2 months ago

check_circle

Review Source

star star star star star_border

Jimmy Lee Wilson Kissimmee, FL

The on hold time was way too long. I frankly became discouraged. Thinking of this is what it takes so I have an emergency I’m in trouble. Then I realize it was not the emergency number so I’m OK. But it still was too long once I got to Bonnie, she and your dispatch team did an incredible job, helping me set up and test my equipment.

3 months ago

check_circle

Review Source

star star star star star

Dena Peregrin Doylestown, PA

Malique our salesman, was knowledgeable and professional in a polite and friendly manner. He explained everything clearly, and answered all questions patiently with expertise. The process was efficient and stress free.

3 months ago

check_circle

Review Source

star star star star star

Patricia Sine Stephens City, VA

I ordered this system for my mother in-law who is 85 and uses a walker. We received the system today and within 30 minutes she was all connected. The customer service was excellent

3 months ago

star star star star star

Patricia Johnson Winchester, KY

Marie was very knowledgeable about the product. She put me at ease immediately and was like a friend. She made sure that I knew everything I needed to know. Marie is an excellent spokesperson for you company.

3 months ago

check_circle

Review Source

star star star star star

Nancy Kammer Gary, IN

The people I have spoken throughout this transition of protection for my mother have all been very helpful and considerate, along with reassuring me that I have made the right decision. God Bless all of you

3 months ago