Looking for expert, lab-tested reviews on the latest Medical Alert Systems? PCMag's experts have you covered.
These systems are also called personal emergency response systems (PERS). They can include medical alert devices that are worn, set up around your home for easy access, and even built into your home so that you communicate with emergency services or medical staff anywhere in your living space. A 2017 study of 4,290 adults who use medical alert systems and have a chronic health condition found that the systems could prevent up to ...
Medical alert systems can provide lifesaving assistance in an emergency event, connecting users to a dispatcher who can send for assistance. They can provide reassurance to people who are medically vulnerable and living alone, as well as their loved ones. Still, a Forbes Health survey of over 1,000 U.S adults ages 65 and older who are electing to age in place found that while 34% of respondents worry about falling or needing medical attention, only 9% of participants use a medical alert system. ...
How we test · Our team has tested every MobileHelp medical alert device to compare performance, reliability, value, and ease of use. We’ve dedicated more than 500 hours to testing over 30 medical alert systems across a dozen brands to help our readers find the right one. Learn more ; Trusted experts · This review benefits from the expertise of Anju Goel, M.D., MPH, a public health consultant and physician, and Krista Manning, an experienced medical editor and fact checker.
Forbes Health reviews the best medical alert systems with GPS technology, based on factors such as cost, key features and more. Compare our top picks here.
Pros: Variety of portable devices to fit different lifestyle and aesthetic needs · Landline- and cellular-based in-home systems · Online customer portal · Optional fall detection · U.S.-based monitoring centers · No long-term contracts ; Cons: Higher upfront device fees at up to $199.95 plus shipping costs · No wellness checks · No free trial period · 90-day service commitment · Enhanced app features require extra costs
Pros: At-home and mobile systems · Landline- and cellular-compatible systems · Spouse monitoring available · Optional fall detection with two plans · No equipment fees · Lifetime warranty and price guarantee included · No long-term contracts ; Cons: No mobile app for caregivers · Smaller detection range than many competitors · No smartwatch option · No activity tracking
$30 for fall detection equipment, service starts at $39.95 a month ; Automatic fall detection included in package cost ; Home base device plugs in, and battery for wearable button lasts up to five years without charging ; Better Business Bureau Rating: A+; Trustpilot Rating: 4.7 out of 5 stars
Pressing the button connects the user to a trained emergency dispatcher who can send help immediately, 24/7. To determine the best medical alert necklaces, the Forbes Health editorial team analyzed data on more than 80 medical alert systems across 17 companies and narrowed it down to the top five based on a number of factors, including their ability to detect falls automaticall ...
Pros: Home, mobile, and combination systems · Optional automatic fall detection · Landline and cellular connectivity options · Smartwatch plan packages · Bella Charms to hide pendant help button · 30-day free trial and no long-term contracts ; Cons: Upfront equipment fees with most plans · No SMS or push notifications with app · No wellness check or medication reminder services