Secure form
Trusted brands
Takes 1 minute
Medical alert systems are devices that provide users with immediate assistance in an emergency situation. These systems enable aging adults to live independently, knowing help is just a button push away on their medical alert device, while giving caregivers the peace of mind that their loved ones have support in case of an emergency. Medical alert systems are available in a variety of devices including medical alert buttons, medical alert necklaces, medical alert bracelets, and smartwatches.
With the simple push of a button, voice command, or built-in fall detection technology, users of medical alert systems can instantly connect to a 24/7 monitoring center. Trained professionals will assess the user’s situation and, if necessary, dispatch emergency services and alert immediate family members or other caregivers.
There are several medical alert systems available depending on a user's specific needs:
In-Home Systems: These medical alert devices are designed for users who spend the majority of their time at home. The medical alert devices typically operate through a landline or home-based cellular connection.
Landline-based Systems: These require a traditional phone line and are suitable for individuals who spend most of their time at home. They feature a base unit and a wearable help button.
Cellular In-home Systems: Operate on cellular networks and don't require a landline, making them a good option for homes without traditional phone service.
On-the-Go Systems: These include medical alert systems designed for users with active lifestyles. The medical alert devices leverage GPS and cellular technology to offer protection beyond the home. It can be used outside and at home.
GPS-enabled Systems: These portable devices provide coverage anywhere cellular service is available and include GPS technology to pinpoint the user’s location during an emergency. They are ideal for active seniors or individuals who often leave the house.
Mobile Apps: Some services offer smartphone apps that convert a mobile phone into a medical alert device, providing features like fall detection and GPS location tracking.
Combination Systems:
Hybrid Systems: Offer both in-home and on-the-go protection, including a home base unit and a mobile device with GPS. This type of system provides comprehensive coverage regardless of the user's location.
Specialized Medical Alert Systems:
Fall Detection Systems: These can automatically detect falls using sensors and call for help without the user needing to press a button.
Activity Monitoring Systems: Beyond emergency assistance, these systems monitor daily activities and health metrics, alerting caregivers or family members if something is amiss.
These systems often come with additional options like waterproof devices, lockboxes for house keys, medication reminders, and check-in services, enhancing the overall safety and convenience for users.
Pendant Devices: These are wearable devices usually worn around the neck. They are compact, lightweight, and typically feature a single button that the user can press to call for help. Pendants are popular because they are easily accessible in an emergency.
Wristband Devices: Similar to a watch, these devices are worn on the wrist. They offer the same functionality as pendant devices, providing a discreet and convenient option for users who prefer not to wear a necklace.
Base Station Units: The central unit of an in-home medical alert system that communicates with the wearable devices and the monitoring center. Base stations often include a large emergency button, speaker, and microphone to facilitate two-way communication between the user and the help center.
Mobile Units: Portable devices equipped with GPS and cellular technology, allowing users to take them wherever they go. These units function independently of a home base station and are ideal for users who are active outside the home.
Fall Detection Sensors: These can be integrated into pendants or wristbands and are designed to automatically detect falls, sending an alert to the monitoring center without the user needing to press a button.
Wall-Mounted Help Buttons: Installed in high-risk areas like the bathroom or kitchen, these fixed buttons can be pressed to send an alert. They are an added layer of safety, ensuring help is accessible from every room in the home.
Smartphone Applications: Apps that convert a smartphone into a medical alert device, offering features like emergency button, GPS tracking, and fall detection. They provide an alternative for tech-savvy users and can complement physical devices.
Each type of device offers unique benefits and can be chosen based on the user's lifestyle, level of activity, and personal preference. These details can help users make more informed decisions about which system might best meet their needs.
Seniors, chronically ill, and mobility-impaired people can greatly benefit from medical alert systems. They offer a critical layer of safety for a diverse group of users, providing quick support that can be lifesaving in situations where every second counts.
Medical alert systems offer significant peace of mind to caregivers and families of users living alone. The knowledge that their loved ones can easily access help in an emergency with their medical alert is reassuring and helps alleviate the stress associated with caring for family members determined to live independently.
The cost of medical alert systems may vary depending on the provider, type of device, the services offered, and the length of the contract. However, investing in a medical alert system is crucial for the peace of mind and safety it provides.
Selecting the right medical alert system requires careful consideration of the user’s specific needs. Each provider offers a unique suite of features, response times, and service plans, ensuring a suitable match for every user's requirements.
By answering a few questions in our questionnaire, we’ll help you find the right medical alert system for you or your loved one’s needs.