The 12 Best Medical Alert Systems in 2022

Best All-Around System: MobileHelp

Monthly fee: $20 for at-home systems and $30 for on-the-go systems

Device range: 600–1,400 feet

Connection type: Landline, AT&T cellular

Fall detection: $10 per month

Pros

• Free trial period
• Referral program offered
• Medication reminders available
• A variety of systems to choose from
• Several options for couples

Cons

• Processing fee included with some systems, like the Touch Classic and Touch Duo
• No fall detection with the Micro

Our team of reviewers agrees that the multifunctional tablet from MobileHelp is a one-of-a-kind product. Whether you are a single person who likes to stay at home or an active senior on the go, MobileHelp offers a range of options, which is one of the main reasons why it's our top choice for medical alert systems.

We also like the company's competitive pricing. In each product category (at home, on the go, and bundled), we found at least one device with a lower price than competitors'. For example, the MobileHelp Micro costs $30 per month, a full $10 less than many other mobile systems on the market. A couple can use two mobile devices for $45 per month, just a few dollars more than what many providers charge for one.

At-home medical alert systems

• MobileHelp Classic: One of the highlights of this at-home system is an industry-high 1,400-foot range. This system's monthly fee is $20.
• Touch Classic: For $55 per month, this touchscreen tablet offers the elderly brain games and a picture gallery as well as optional activity tracking and medication reminders for caregivers.
• The Wired Home: This system uses a landline connection and costs $25 per month.

On-the-go medical alert systems

• MobileHelp Solo: This system includes optional fall detection and costs $38 per month.
• MobileHelp Micro: This lightweight and discreet device has advanced location detection and costs $30 per month.

Bundled packages

Our product reviews team considers these bundled packages to be great for couples and roommates:

• A combination of an at-home and on-the-go system for $42 per month
• Two on-the-go devices for $45 per month
• A touchscreen tablet and on-the-go device for $55 per month

Extra fees and services

You won't need to worry about equipment fees for most MobileHelp products, and if you take advantage of the referral program, you can receive a $200 discount. The company does have one hidden fee to watch out for: The Touch Classic and Touch Duo come with a $100 processing fee if you elect to use the monthly payment plan. By using a quarterly, semiannual, or annual payment plan, you can avoid the fee and save on the monthly rate.

A few notable services also make MobileHelp worthwhile. MDLive is a telehealth service that allows you to virtually visit a board-certified doctor without an appointment. MDLive does accept insurance and the company states that more than 60 million people have MDLive as part of their health insurance benefit. It is a great way to supplement your primary care. MobileHelp Connect is an online portal and app that provides free features, like location detection, and add-ons, such as activity tracking and medication reminders.

RELATED: MobileHelp Review | Plans, Pricing, Pros, and Cons in 2022

See packages: offers.mobilehelp.com or call 1-877-223-0626

Best Premium Features: Medical Guardian

Monthly fee: $30 for at-home systems and $40 for on-the-go systems

Device range: 1,300–1,400 feet

Connection type: Landline, AT&T or Verizon cellular

Fall detection: $10 per month

Pros

• Price transparency
• A variety of sleek on-the-go devices
• One of the longest device ranges in the industry
• Five-day battery life on some devices
• Location tracking with some devices
• No hidden fees

Cons

• No warranty (protection plan costs extra)
• No free trial period
• Prices slightly higher than other brands

If you want to customize your medical device, Medical Guardian is here to help. What sets the company apart from other providers are the extras you can add on to tailor your system to your specific needs.

At-home medical alert systems

• Classic Guardian: For $30 per month and no equipment fee, the base unit of the Classic Guardian connects to a landline and has a range of 1,300 feet.
• Home 2.0: Working from a cellular connection, this system includes a base station and help button with a 1,400-foot range. The equipment costs $100 and the monthly fee is $35.

On-the-go medical alert systems

• Mobile 2.0: This system comes with a help button that has a 500-foot range from the main device, advanced location detection, and a three-day battery. The equipment fee is $125 and the monthly fee is $40.
• Mini Guardian: This device, which has a five-day battery, weighs 1.3 ounces and comes in three colors: white, black, and silver. A magnetic lanyard and belt clip are also included, and features, such as built-in fall detection, are available as add-ons. The cost is $125 for the equipment and $40 for the monthly fee.
• Active Guardian: This system features advanced location detection and has optional built-in fall detection, plus the battery lasts for seven days. It costs $45 per month with no equipment fee.

Extra fees and services

Across the five systems, Medical Guardian offers an assortment of high-quality add-on products and services—each with an additional monthly cost. These include:

• A caregiver's app
• Real-time text and email caregiver notifications when the help button has been pressed
• Fall detection
• A protection plan
• A lockbox
• Standard and voice-activated wall buttons

Keep in mind that Medical Guardian charges higher monthly fees than some competitors. Any add-ons will push your monthly costs even higher. However, our product reviews team notes that you won't have to worry about hidden processing fees, and equipment fees only apply to certain systems.

Regardless of the system you choose, the Medical Guardian at-home systems match the industry high of 1,300–1,400 feet of range. The company's on-the-go systems have a longer-than-average battery life and advanced location detection.

RELATED: Medical Guardian Review 2022

See packages: medicalguardian.com or call 1-877-223-0391

Best Cost Savings: Bay Alarm Medical

Monthly fee: Starts at $22 for the at-home system and $30 for on-the-go systems

Device range: 1,000 feet

Connection type: Landline, AT&T cellular

Fall detection: $10 per month

Pros

• Price lock guarantee
• Selection of charms available to beautify your pendant
• SOS smartwatch option
• No hidden fees
• Caregiver tracking
• Risk-free trial period

Cons

• Fewer device choices than some competitors
• No warranty

Bay Alarm Medical is an affordable option for seniors who are economically insecure or individuals who simply prefer to pay as little as possible each month for a medical alert system. The company's offerings may be more limited than competitors', but our reviews team still considers them to be good investments. While most mobile systems cost between $37 and $40 per month, Bay Alarm Medical saves you $120 annually thanks to its cheaper fees.

At-home medical alert system

• In-Home Medical Alert: For those with a landline connection, the starting monthly fee is $22 per month. The price goes up to $30 per month for a system with a cellular connection.

On-the-go medical alert systems

• GPS Help Button: This simple, lightweight help button includes caregiver tracking and optional fall detection. It costs $30 per month with a one-time $99 equipment fee. Automatic fall detection can be added for an extra $10 each month.
• SOS smartwatch: Also $30 per month, the sleek SOS smartwatch includes a step tracker in addition to security functions. It has a $179 upfront equipment fee.

Bundled system

Bay Alarm Medical's bundled system includes the GPS help button and an at-home cellular system. The starting price is $52 per month, and it's often advertised at a sale price of $42 per month. At this lower price, you get two systems for a little more than what many providers charge for one. This is a great deal for households with multiple seniors or for those who live alone and want one system for home and one for going out. You can try a Bay Alarm Medical alert system risk free for 30 days. If you like it, the company will lock in your price (even the sale price) and never increase it. There are no hidden fees.

RELATED: Bay Alarm Medical Review 2022

See packages: bayalarmmedical.com or call 1-855-250-4066

Best System Without Wearables: GetSafe

Monthly fee: Starts at $23 for the at-home system packages

Device range: System operates on voice activation (up to several yards away)

Connection type: Landline, AT&T cellular

Fall detection: $10 per month

Pros

• Risk-free trial period
• Mobile device offered as add-on
• Caregiver tracking offered as add-on
• Low monitoring fees

Cons

• Somewhat pricey equipment fees
• Limited product choices

GetSafe is for any elderly person who frequently forgets to put on alert pendants and wristbands or who finds them uncomfortable or stigmatizing. Instead of a wearable device, different types of alerts are placed around the home. This includes a base unit that should be put in a central location, standard wall buttons placed in various spots, and voice-activated wall buttons affixed in other rooms. GetSafe does include a simple personal help button with every plan in case users want to wear it, but it is not necessary for the voice-activated system to work.

At-home medical alert system packages

• Starter: Designed for small condos and apartments, the Starter kit includes the base unit, a voice-activated wall button, and a wearable button. It costs $79 for the equipment and has a $25 monthly fee.
• Standard: This mid-range system is for homes with two to three bedrooms and includes a base unit, two wall-mounted buttons, a standard wall button, and a wearable help button. It costs $149 for the equipment and has a monthly fee of $25.
• Select: GetSafe recommends this deluxe package for older adults who live in multi-level homes with four to five bedrooms. It includes a base unit, three wall-mounted buttons, two standard wall buttons, and a wearable help button. It costs $229 for the equipment and also has a $25 monthly fee.

On-the-go medical alert system

• Optional wearables: The Mobile GPS Help Button can be used anywhere and has a one-time fee of $79. A wearable help button with fall detection for use at home costs $10 per month.

Extra fees

Each GetSafe package has an upfront equipment fee of $79 to $229. The company is one of the few providers that charges an equipment fee for both at-home and on-the-go equipment. Most providers only charge equipment fees for on-the-go equipment. However, the trade-off is the low monthly fee of $25 per month for all three systems.

Although this system is intended to be an at-home service, you can purchase a basic on-the-go device for a flat fee of $79. Other add-ons include fall detection and caregiver tracking.

See packages: getsafe.com or call 1-877-224-3754

Best Traditional All-in-One Device: Medical Alert

Monthly fee: Starting at $23 for the at-home system and $43 for the on-the-go system

Device range: 800 feet

Connection type: Landline, AT&T cellular

Fall detection: $10 per month

Pros

• Risk-free trial period
• Caregiver location tracking
• Caregiver can call monitoring center directly from the Connect Mobile App
• Alert sent to caregiver if user presses the help button or requests help through the speaker
• Lightweight mobile device

Cons

• Very few add-ons
• Incomplete information on the website

For older adults interested in a traditional on-the-go device that can be worn around the neck or attached to a belt, Medical Alert offers a great all-in-one system. As its name implies, one device performs all the functions, eliminating the need to wear an additional pendant. The design is meant to be user-friendly and reduces the risk of losing or forgetting one of the pieces.

At-home medical alert system

• Home System: Both the system with a landline connection, which costs $20 per month, and the system with a cellular connection, which costs $33 per month, include a help button, optional fall detection, and an 800-foot range.

On-the-go medical alert system

• Mobile System: Costing $43 per month, this mobile device comes with a lightweight help button that will connect you to a monitoring center at all hours, two-way talk, and GPS location tracking.

Extra fees and services

At $43 per month, the mobile device starts at a higher price point than some other systems on the market. But it does include a complimentary app that allows caregivers to directly contact the monitoring center, track a user's location, and receive notifications if the emergency button has been pressed. Fall detection costs an additional $10 per month, which is the industry standard.

While many other providers offer fall protection (a high-value add-on) through a separate pendant worn on a lanyard, Medical Alert gives the option of directly programming fall detection into the on-the-go device. For those with a pacemaker or defibrillator, it is safer to attach the mobile device to a belt while wearing a fall detection pendant around the neck. Medical Alert provides both.

RELATED: Medical Alert Review: Plans, Pricing, Pros, and Cons in 2022

See packages: medicalalert.com or call 1-877-223-0830

Best Health Services: Lively

Monthly fee: Starting at $20 for on-the-go systems

Device range: N/A (on-the-go devices only)

Connection type: Verizon cellular

Fall detection: Free with Wearable2 and $10 per month with Mobile Plus

Pros

• Easy for seniors to navigate
• Built-in cameras on mobile devices
• Referral program
• Personal operator can schedule appointments or rides with Lyft (partner company)
• A variety of accessories to choose from

Cons

• Activation fees
• Fall detection only available in the most expensive package; no à la carte option

Given the choice of a smartphone or flip phone with built-in cameras, video chat, and brain games, Lively certainly appeals to active and tech-savvy seniors. But it truly shines in providing extra services for individuals with one or more health conditions.

However, it's important to note that Lively has low customer ratings on its BBB page—it's currently at a 1.1 out of 5 stars. The majority of complaints express frustration over nonresponsive customer service and difficulties with device setup. Despite the negative reviews, Lively is still accredited with the BBB and has an A+ rating from the organization, meaning the company works to respond to and resolve every customer complaint.

On-the-go medical alert systems

• Jitterbug Smart3: This smartphone has a 6.2-inch screen, a camera, brain games, video chat, and voice typing. The standard price for equipment is $150 (although we frequently see sale prices as low as $75), and the monthly fee starts at $20.
• Jitterbug Flip2: Lively's flip phone has a backlit keypad, camera, magnifier, flashlight, and Amazon Alexa. Its standard price is $100, and the monthly fee starts at $20.
• Lively Mobile Plus: At $20 per month with a $50 equipment cost, the wearable Mobile Plus is waterproof and offers optional fall detection.
• Lively Wearable2: The Lively watch includes a four-month battery and optional fall detection along with a step tracker and daily health tips. The fees start at $25 per month, plus a one-time $50 equipment fee.

Each of the Lively products offers a basic, preferred, and ultimate package, which provide different combinations of services at various prices so you only pay for what you need. Keep in mind that Lively does have equipment fees, and like any other smartphone service, you will be required to purchase an additional talk and text package.

Extra services

Lively offers four add-ons to its smartphone, flip phone, all-in-one wearable, and smartwatch:

• Urgent Care: The Lively telehealth service called Urgent Care offers seniors the benefit of around-the-clock access to board-certified doctors and nurses who will answer questions and refill prescriptions. It's an excellent supplementary service to any senior's primary health care provider.
• Caregiver app: Lively provides an app that complements each Lively product and enables caregivers to track the user's location and changes in daily activity.
• Personal operator: When you're not feeling well, it can be difficult to manage daily tasks. A Lively personal operator is always available to assist in finding a physician's phone number, providing directions if you are on the road and having difficulty navigating, or scheduling rides to an appointment. In fact, Lively partners with Lyft, and by pressing 0 on any Lively phone, a senior can quickly reach a personal operator to schedule a ride.
• Fall detection: Because many chronic conditions, including Parkinson's disease, diabetes, and COPD, come with an increased risk of falling, it is important to have access to automatic fall detection. Although two of the Lively products are phones, each can be paired with Lively Wearable2, which will detect falls and automatically call for help.

See packages: lively.com or call 1-800-733-6632

Best Customer-Friendly Policies: LifeFone

Monthly fee: Starting at $30 for at-home systems and $44 for on-the-go systems

Device range: 1,300 feet

Connection type: Landline, AT&T or Verizon cellular

Fall detection: $5 per month for most systems

Pros

• 30-day trial period
• Price lock guarantee
• Optional daily check-in available
• Referral program
• Low-priced hybrid option
• Free spousal coverage with most packages
• Vanity pendants to encase help buttons

Cons

• No fall detection option for at-home systems and On-the-Go VIP
• Add-ons can get pricey

When it comes to added perks, the LifeFone price structure and policies take the cake. For starters, the provider offers a 30-day risk-free trial period, a price lock guarantee, and a lifetime warranty for manufacturer defects.

At-home medical alert systems

• At-Home Landline: At $30 per month, this system comes with a help button and has a 1,300-foot range and room temperature sensor.
• At-Home Cellular: The cellular system's features include a help button,1,300-foot range, room temperature sensor, and medication reminder. The monthly fee is $35.

On-the-go medical alert systems

• At-Home & On-the-Go VIP: Lightweight and small, the VIP features an industry-high 30-day battery life and has a $44 monthly fee.
• At-Home & On-the-Go VIPx: The VIPx has the same features as the VIP with the addition of advanced location detection, optional fall detection for an extra $5 per month, a caregiver app, and three color options. However, it does have a shorter battery life at 16 days. It costs $46 per month.
• At-Home & On-the-Go: LifeFone's bundled system includes a base unit with either a cellular or landline connection, a help button with your choice of lanyard or wristband, and a standard mobile device. This comprehensive system costs $40 per month.

Ways to save

With LifeFone's referral program, you can receive a free month of service for every new customer that you refer. Spousal coverage is another way to save. With both at-home systems and the at-home and on-the-go system, basic service is free for spouses. LifeFone also charges just $5 per month for fall detection while most other providers charge $10 per month.

Extra services and fees

Both the VIP and VIPx systems support AT&T and Verizon cellular coverage, which is a step above other providers on this list that just offer connectivity through one service. In addition, LifeFone leads the industry when it comes to battery life. The VIP has a battery that will last up to 30 days and the VIPx's battery extends up to 16 days.

The LifeFone monthly fees will cost you a few more dollars each month than some of the other systems, but keep in mind that you will not be charged for the LifeFone equipment, which is well designed and filled with high-value functions. You won't have activation or processing fees either.

See packages: lifefone.com or call 1-855-202-6811

Best Basic System: ADT Health

Monthly fee: Starting at $30 for at-home systems and $40 for the on-the-go system

Device range: 300–600 feet

Connection type: Landline, AT&T cellular

Fall detection: $10 per month

Pros

• Three basic system options
• Free next-day shipping
• Easy and free returns process
• Price lock guarantee
• Free battery replacements
• Discounted prices if bundling with ADT Home Security

Cons

• Small range with at-home system
• No free trial period
• No cancellation feature for emergency calls

ADT Health products are straightforward and simple. The at-home landline system is as basic as they come with a base station and a help button. It has a 300-foot range, which is notably small, and it does not feature optional fall detection. However, the at-home cellular system steps up the range to 600 feet and offers optional fall detection. Both base stations include temperature monitoring. The on-the-go system also sticks to the basics by providing two-way talk, GPS location detection, and optional fall detection through a separate pendant.

At-home medical alert systems

• Medical Alert Basic System: This at-home system uses a landline connection and costs $30 per month. The base station has a 300-foot range and includes a home temperature monitor. It also comes with a complimentary help button.
• Medical Alert Plus System: Using a cellular connection, the Medical Alert Plus has a 600-foot range and includes a home temperature monitor and optional fall detection (a complimentary help button is also thrown in). The monthly fee for this system is $36.

On-the-go medical alert system

• On-the-Go System: At $40 per month, ADT's on-the-go system comes with a charging cradle, help button, and optional fall detection.

Extra services and fees

As far as extras go, ADT Health keeps the menu short. Add-ons include:

• An extra help button (in the form of a wristband or neck pendant)
• A fall detection button
• An ADT lockbox
• A leather carrying case for the on-the-go device
• A waterproof wall-mount button

While your options are limited with this provider, the company makes it easy to select a system. Fees for at-home systems start at $30 per month, similar to competitors', and there are no hidden costs. This means no activation fees, shipping fees, and processing fees if you decide to return the system. ADT even sends a prepaid shipping label for returns. The provider also offers a price lock guarantee and free replacement batteries.

It's important to note that if you already own an ADT home security system, you can receive a discount on your medical alert system. Call customer service at 800-716-3640 for details.

See packages: adt.com/health or call 1-800-276-0965

Best On-the-Go System: LifeStation

Monthly fee: Starting at $23 for the at-home system and $38 for on-the-go systems

Device range: 500–600 feet

Connection type: Landline, AT&T cellular

Fall detection: $5 per month

Pros

• Free trial period
• Inexpensive spousal monitoring
• Lightweight mobile device available
• Smartwatch available

Cons

• No online ordering or prices available on the website
• Inconsistent information from customer service

LifeStation recently added two on-the-go products to its offerings. The first device, the Sidekick, is small and easy to put in a pocket or wear around your neck when going for a hike or meeting friends for lunch.

The second device, the Sidekick Smart, has a higher monthly fee than other smartwatches with medical alert capabilities on the market. However, the trade-off is that you're not required to pay an upfront equipment fee as you would with other providers.

At-home medical alert system

• LifeStation At-Home Medical Alert System: The LifeStation medical alert system with a landline connection costs $23 per month and has a 500-foot range. Its system with a cellular connection costs $31 per month and has a 600-foot range.

On-the-go medical alert systems

• Sidekick: An all-in-one device that weighs only 1.4 ounces, the Sidekick includes advanced location detection and optional built-in fall detection for $38 per month with no equipment fee.
• Sidekick Smart: This black smartwatch costs $56 per month and comes with advanced location detection, two-way talk, a pedometer, and a heart monitor.

Extra features

Both on-the-go products come with several additional safeguards so that seniors feel confident and secure while out and about—they also give family members and caregivers peace of mind. The monitoring center will alert predesignated family members when a loved one makes an emergency call. In addition, caregivers can track the user either through the company's "Find My Loved One" feature or through integration with Amazon Alexa.

One thing to note is that our product reviews team did receive inconsistent information from LifeStation's customer service. Although currently advertised on the company's website, LifeStation no longer partners with Uber Health to help transport users to their doctor appointments. When calling to confirm the availability of the service, our product reviews team received several conflicting answers from different customer service members.

See packages: lifestation.com or call 1-855-995-0712

Best Technically Advanced System: HandsFree Health

Monthly fee: Starting at $30 for on-the-go systems (at-home system has no monthly fee)

Device range: System operates on voice activation (up to several yards away)

Connection type: T-Mobile cellular

Fall detection: Not available

Pros

• High-tech, Bluetooth-enabled devices
• Smart speaker includes health-focused database
• Smartwatch includes pedometer and heart rate monitor
• Reminders for appointments, medications, and prescription refills
• Affordable bundling cost
• Unique 8-inch touchscreen tablet offered

Cons

• Somewhat pricey equipment fees
• No option for fall detection

HandsFree Health is not your typical medical alert system. It expands the functionality of a medical alert through the use of advanced technology. The system operates using two pieces of equipment that can be purchased separately or together—a smart speaker and a smartwatch.

At-home medical alert system

• WellBe Smart Speaker: This voice-activated smart speaker, similar to Alexa or Siri, reminds you of upcoming medical appointments and when to take your medication. It includes a curated health database so you can ask specific questions about vaccinations or various conditions, and it calls the monitoring center in the event of an emergency. HandsFree Health charges $189 for the equipment, plus an additional $10 per month for monitoring (though this feature is optional).

On-the-go medical alert systems

• WellBe Smartwatch: The smartwatch provides a heart monitor and pedometer, and it's equipped with medical alert functions, including a help button, two-way talk, and GPS location detection. It can also answer health questions from WellBe's curated database. With a monthly fee of $30, the smartwatch is actually on the cheaper side for on-the-go systems. The equipment fee is $120.
• WellBe Medical Alert PLUS: Includes both the speaker and watch for $45 per month, plus a $160 equipment fee.

A complimentary app comes with the system, allowing caregivers to manage health information from anywhere. One thing that HandsFree Health does not offer is fall detection, so a lanyard or some other medical alert device worn around the neck would be a better fit for older adults who may be at high risk of falling. HandsFree Health is best for seniors who are comfortable using smart technology.

See packages: handsfreehealth.com or call 1-855-661-3731

Best Monitoring Center: Medical Care Alert

Monthly fee: Starting at $28 for the at-home system and $37 for on-the-go systems

Device range: 600–1,000 feet

Connection type: Landline, AT&T or Verizon cellular

Fall detection: $10 per month

Pros

• 14-day risk-free trial period
• Free lockbox with most orders
• Decorative help button available with at-home systems
• Price lock guarantee
• Free spousal monitoring for at-home systems and a 10% discount for a second on-the-go system
• Text messages sent to contacts when user presses help button
• Lightweight on-the-go device
• Caregiver's app

Cons

• Monthly payment plan not available
• $50 fee if you don't test the system before returning it during trial period

Top-notch monitoring centers set this provider apart from the competition. Each facility is equipped with two diesel generators and two uninterrupted power supply units, all acting independently, that are ready to provide power and continue operating during natural disasters and other emergencies. Medical Care Alert owns and runs a center in New York and a second one in California, which is unlike some medical alert companies that outsource to overseas contact centers. Users' calls are directed to one of these two facilities no matter where they live.

Even more impressive, the centers' highly trained agents, all of whom are EMT/EMD certified, have completed at least two years of post-secondary education or military service, and have undergone a six-week training session certified by the Security Industry Association. A Spanish-speaking agent is always available, and support is provided for deaf and hearing-impaired individuals.

At-home medical alert systems

• Home System: Priced at $30 per month for a landline connection and $35 for a cellular connection, this system comes with a help button that extends as far as 1,000 feet from the base station. Optional fall detection is available.
• Home & Yard System: The Home & Yard includes a base unit and a pendant with two-way talk that extends up to 600 feet from the base station. It comes with a belt clip, clip with a velcro strap, and a lanyard. The cost is $35 per month.

On-the-go medical alert systems

• Home & Away Ultra: Medical Care Alert's all-in-one device has a three-day battery, optional built-in fall detection, and advanced location detection. It will connect to either AT&T or Verizon cellular. The monthly fee is $40.
• Home & Away Duo: This system includes the Duo GPS device with a three-day battery, advanced location detection, and a wearable help button with a 400-foot range and optional fall detection. Extra buttons can be purchased for use by a spouse or other household member. The monthly fee is $40.

In addition to the reputable monitoring, Medical Care Alert excels in the app department. Its Remote Care 24/7 app comes with the Home & Away Duo system and enables caregivers to track a user's location and schedule medication and medical appointment reminders.

One thing to note about Medical Care Alert: The prices on the website are a bit confusing. While there are monthly payment plans available, you'll save money by paying quarterly, semiannually, or annually.

See packages: medicalcarealert.com or call 1-855-661-3731

Best for Busy Caregivers: Aloe Care Health

Monthly fee: Starting at $30 for the at-home system and $25 for on-the-go systems

Device range: 200 feet

Connection type: AT&T cellular

Fall detection: Included with two of the three packages

Pros

• Caregiver's app can integrate with smart medical and home devices
• Wall-mounted fall sensor for the bathroom
• Advanced caregiver communication
• Location detection that can be accessed by caregivers
• Air quality, temperature, and motion sensors

Cons

• No risk-free trial period
• Limited four- to six-hour backup battery
• Expensive equipment

Aloe Care Health enhances communication between a caregiver and the medical alert user, as well as among multiple caregivers. It all centers on the base unit, called the Smart Hub. With voice activation, seniors can ask the Hub to call a family member, caregiver, or the monitoring center. This feature is especially helpful for those with mobility or vision problems.

At-home medical alert systems

• Essentials: This basic package includes the Hub and one help button. The equipment cost is $150 and the monthly fee is $30.
• Essentials Plus: Essentials Plus is a bundled package. It includes the Hub, the Mobile Companion (see below), and one help button. It costs $250 for the equipment and $40 for the monthly fee.
• Total Care: Total Care includes everything in the Essentials Plus package, plus two motion sensors and a wall-mounted fall detection sensor for the bathroom. This premium package costs $350 for equipment and $50 per month.

On-the-go medical alert system

• Mobile Companion: The Aloe Care on-the-go device costs $25 per month with a one-time equipment fee of $150 (often on sale for $100). This price includes advanced location detection, fall detection, and multi-sensory feedback.

By using the complimentary app, a caregiver can call the user directly through the Hub or message with other caregivers. The caregiver can also check on the temperature and air quality inside a senior's home. Sensors on the Hub record this information. The Hub has motion sensors, too, which enable the caregiver to note the most recent movements within a senior's home—a sort of long-distance check-in.

Fees

Many advanced and unique features that facilitate strong and accurate communication between receivers and providers of care are available through Aloe Care. However, like any system, it has a few drawbacks, including a short range of 200 feet for the help button and pricey equipment fees that run between $150 and $350. The monthly fees are in the same range as other providers.

See packages: get.aloecare.com or call 1-844-201-2900