Living in today’s modern world is relatively easy. All the technology available has made significant improvements in our quality of life. Unlike in the past, when many things were unavailable to people, everything seems within our grasp today.
A critical aspect of our life that has significantly improved today is healthcare. Thanks to the advancements in technology, we can enjoy a healthier and happier life altogether. One major part of the population that benefits from this are older people.
We would like to tell you about today’s best medical alert systems in the following article. These fantastic products, specifically designed for senior people, offer convenience and security.
We all want the best for our parents, especially when they are older. And since adult people rarely live together with their parents, our cause for concern is even greater. We know that many of you reading this article feel the same.
That is why you should stick with us, read our review carefully, and make the lives of your loved ones better!
Top 5 Best Life Alert Systems
- Medihill: Overall Best Medical Alert System, Editor’s Choice
- Lutiband: Popular Medic Alert Systems For Home Use
- CallToU’s: Affordable Life Alert Devices
#1. Medihill: Overall Best Medical Alert System, Editor’s Choice
As a company established in the USA, Medihill’s sole purpose is to offer health monitoring services to all elderly adults in the medical alert industry. The company claims to provide health and safety solutions that improve patient care while lowering home care costs.
What Medihill truly offers is high-quality devices that are lightweight, waterproof, and offer fall protection options. They also provide health monitoring gadgets to track everyday activities and give emergency alarms.
Their in-home devices alert system works from your home and ranges at least 1000 feet. You can even be outside, watering your garden, and feel safe and secure.
Fall detection is crucial for these devices and something you will also be skeptical about. But we can assure you that Medihill’s in-home devices are top-notch, receiving acclaim for their fast detection and reaction.
Another exciting and convenient offer from Medihill is their portable devices. These devices are easy to conceal, water-resistant, and lightweight. So if you are a person who spends a lot of time outdoors, this is the product for you.
Highlights
24/7 customer support
Medihill’s personal emergency response systems offer you 24 hours a day, seven days a week support. They employ highly trained professionals that respond calmly and swiftly to any emergency. Their large number of employees guarantees that every call is passed through immediately.
Fall detection
An extra option that we highly recommend is fall detection. With only a small monthly fee, you will gain one of the most important benefits of these devices. With the help of accelerometers and processors, these devices sense if you had a fall or haven’t moved for a more extended period.
On-The-Go emergency response system
The Medihill portable devices offer modern and exact GPS tracking. Even in the harshest environments, the user’s movements are constantly monitored and tracked. It will notify your family members of your whereabouts and activities, working together with fall detection.
Excellent prices
Medihill’s in-home use devices are priced at 24.99$ at a discount. What is great about this is that you get the fall detection option as a bonus and at a discounted price. The Medihill HealthTracker, the portable version, also comes with a discount of 34.99$, with fall detection included.
Pros
- U.S. based monitoring service
- Cloud-based monitoring
- Highly trained operators
- Smartphone connectivity
- Full package discount prices
Cons
- Services are only offered in the U.S.
=> click here to visit the official website of Medihill
#2. Lutiband: Popular Medic Alert Systems For Home Use
If you’re in the market for a smartwatch that tracks your movement and location and monitors your or your loved ones’ health, this is your product. Lutiband’s specialty is producing high-quality medical alert watches.
Gustavo Rubacha is the company’s founder, and its foundations come from Gustavo’s personal near-death experience. Using his skills and knowledge of technology, he dedicated his life to making an accessory that would save people’s lives.
Lutiband’s headquarters is located in the U.S. and is where their watches are produced and shipped to the whole world. With customer services ranging only in the U.S., the company has promised that they will also be available worldwide soon.
As an adjustable smartwatch, Lutiband comes with both small and large straps. One great feature of the straps is the security clasp, keeping your watch safe and secure on your wrist.
Lutiband’s smartwatch also offers many essential benefits for seniors. We will explore and explain some of them, the ones that we particularly like and find necessary.
Highlights
Convenience
Many seniors are estranged from modern-day technology. But something that they know and are used to is wearing a watch. It is easier to convince them to adapt to this modern trend if it comes in the form of a smartwatch.
Regular health reports
Lutiband’s smartwatch is excellent because it offers its users constant health monitoring. The specially designed sensors in the watch detect even the slightest change in heart rate or blood pressure. This way, the users will receive regular health reports and ease of mind.
Direct integration
Lutiband’s direct integration with responders is a big plus for this smartwatch. As soon as there is an emergency, 911 is sent all the relevant information about the person, location, and personal files. Notifications are also sent to the user’s loved ones almost immediately.
Total 4G connectivity
A great feature that this watch offers is its pre installed sim card. As a result, the device has 4G connectivity available without connecting to a smartphone. Many older adults are prone to forgetting their mobile phones, so this feature makes them always available and within reach.
Price
The LutiBand watch is priced at 169.95$ with free shipping only in the U.S. The company also offers a first-month subscription-free purchase which saves you 29.99$. 4-interest free installments are also provided with a price of 42.48$ each.
Pros
- Biometric sensors
- History tracking
- Long-lasting and rechargeable battery
- Multiple watch straps to choose from for maximum comfort
- LutiBand security clasp
- Portable charger
Cons
- Still only available in the U.S.
=> click here to visit the official website of Lutiband
#3. CallToU’s: Affordable Life Alert Devices
As a company established in 2008, CallToU is mainly a supplier of auxiliary products for electronic equipment. It provides a wide variety of services, including medical alarm systems, caregiver pagers, restaurant pagers, doorbells, etc.
CallToU offers the broadest range of products in the category we are reviewing. Its products and devices span from simple pagers to alarms and smartwatches. Based on our research we can say that they offer very high-end products.
CallToU has received many positive user reviews. Many of the seniors using their products have nothing but good opinions. This fact played a significant role in narrowing down our list of the best medical alert systems.
We couldn’t review them all, so we reduced it down to just a few that, in our opinion, represent the best value for the money. Going through many of the user’s experiences and our research, we now finally want to tell you about the best devices of this brand.
Highlights
Alert watch for seniors
The device in mind is, of course, a smartwatch. But this smartwatch is categorized as the Best medical alert watch. The idea is to offer the caregiver and the patient the freedom they need while still asking for aid. Both the smartwatch and buttons have built-in batteries and are waterproof, so you don’t have to worry about accidentally immersing them in water.
Wireless caregiver pager
This medical alert system includes two pagers and three receivers. Making it ideal for larger homes. The pagers are also waterproof, well built, and have neck straps or double-sided stickers.
The receiver’s volume can be adjusted, and there are 55 different ringtones to choose from. The user can quite easily choose a preferable tone. The pairing system is also simple, with an option to expand with pagers and receivers.
Medical pager system
The medical pager system features 2 wristwatches and 5 call buttons. It explicitly offers an intelligent alert, which means a signal is only sent to one caregiver, not alerting the others. It also provides high durability and built quality, long-lasting batteries, and water resistance.
This pager system is also widely used in hospitals because of its innovative feature. Its massive range of 500 feet quickly and easily covers vast hospital buildings and reaches caregivers.
Prices
CallToU offers excellent prices for all the options we reviewed above. You get the smartwatch option for only 54.99$ on a discount and no additional monthly fee. If you’re looking for an affordable price while still getting the most of it, then this one is for you.
The wireless caregiver pager package offers you 5 items for a meager price of 32.99$ at a discount. It is an excellent option for your home because the receivers need an electrical outlet to function.
And, of course, the most costly deal is also the best because the medical pager system offers the best features for only 119.99$ on sale.
Pros
- Wide variety of products to choose from
- A lot of positive reviews
- Waterproof devices
- Rechargeable batteries
- Wide area of operation
- Worldwide shipping
Cons
- The wireless caregiver pagers need electricity to operate
- Some users have also reported intermittent issues with their pagers in larger homes
=> click here to visit the official website of CallToU
How We Made This List For Top Medical Alert Devices
We made this list through extensive online research. We wanted to compile the best options for all the older people and make them feel constantly safe.
Exploring many customer reviews, both positive and negative, we narrowed it down to only three products because they will best suit all your needs. Here are some of the things we considered while making this list.
Convenient customer service
All of these products have what we think is the best customer service. Available 24/7, you will feel safe and secure, and they will also resolve any issues you might have very swiftly.
Constant monitoring
All of these products constantly monitor your health and wellbeing. As you will see, two of them are worn on your person all the time, while the other also offers cell phone connectivity.
Long-distance coverage
These products offer long-distance coverage as part of their offer and high quality. You will no longer have to worry about losing track of your loved ones and their health.
Things to Consider When Buying the Best Medical Alert Systems
Medical alert systems vs. Medical ID bracelets
A medical ID bracelet is just a bracelet that includes information about the person, like allergies or some other person’s contact information. An important thing to consider is that these two types of medical aids can work together but are entirely different.
As we’ve seen, medical alert systems are easy-to-use communication tools and allow seniors to live freely and safely in their own homes. Performing physical and social activities is also encouraged by these systems as they provide seniors with the safety they require.
On the other hand, medical ID bracelets are limited in use. They come in handy as a second option if an older person gets suddenly lost. However, you should never rely solely on medical ID bracelets. They do not provide complete safety for you and your loved ones.
Monitored vs. Unmonitored medical alert systems
The option to go with here is the one that best suits your needs and finances. The monitored medical alert system offers you connectivity to public services. These public services are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and are always ready to assist you.
With the monitored system, you just need to press a button, and a signal will automatically be sent to a service that will address the problem. One downside to this is that you have to pay a monthly fee for this system.
The unmonitored medical alert systems have some significant limitations. One of them is that they lack fall detection. Another is that even if they connect you to 911 emergency services, this may be slow or inconsistent due to its limitations. We suggest you go with the monitored option for the best safety possible.
An in-home or mobile medical alert system
If you are unsure which one of these systems to choose, we recommend the one that mostly fits your lifestyle. Both of these systems offer similar functions but have their advantages.
The three product brands that we reviewed offer you versatility in this regard. All of them cover both indoor and outdoor use.
You should consider an in-home medical system if:
- You live alone
- You live in a huge house
- You rarely leave your house
If, on the other hand, you:
- Leave your house often
- Like outdoor activities
Then you might benefit from purchasing a mobile medical alert system.
Our reviewed products also offer you dual options, especially smartwatch devices. By constantly wearing them on your wrist, you will be covered 24/7.
What to look for in alert watches
Medical alert watches are one of the best ways to monitor your health and the health of your loved ones. So, in addition to the section above, we want to cover some key aspects that you should look for when choosing this device.
One of the first things to consider when choosing a medical alert watch is whether it has a built-in GPS. Keeping track of our senior loved ones is crucial, so having a heart rate monitor option would also be a plus.
Battery life is also a significant factor to consider. Nobody wants a device that runs out of battery very quickly. Even the younger users need this, and it is essential for seniors. So it would be best if you always went with a device that offers at least a one-day battery life.
One last thing we would suggest looking for is comfort. Something we wear on our wrist all day should provide comfort in conjunction with functionality. So consider buying a high-quality strap smartwatch, and as a plus, you can also look for watches with security clasps. The device stays firmly on your wrist and doesn’t accidentally fall off this way.
Medical alert monitoring services – what to consider
Medical alert monitoring services play a vital role in cases of emergency. Every one of these services has different quality and operational standards. However, we will point out a few things you should consider before choosing one.
First and foremost – response time! Seconds matter in emergency cases, so the average personal emergency response system time should be 20 seconds to one minute.
An important psychological factor is that the operator is constantly on the phone during an emergency. This has a significant impact on the user and assures them that everything will be well.
Certified operators are also one great plus when choosing the service. The highest quality service & medical alert providers are often trained in the specialized training program by the TMA.
These certified operators also provide contact protocols. In emergency cases, the operator will know to contact a family member, a neighbor, or a caregiver before dispatching a 911.
The Fall alert feature
The most vulnerable category prone to falling are usually seniors 65 and older. Statistics show that falling is one of the leading causes of injury and death among the senior population. There are also cases when a person falls, not injuring themselves, but cannot stand and get up.
Because of these reasons, buying a medical alert system can be a lifesaver. Fall detection is possible because of several sensors incorporated inside of the device. Accelerometers and barometric sensors combined with a finely tuned algorithm detect 95 percent of many types of falls.
Of course, this is an automatic feature, making the device instantly react and send a call even if you are unconscious or unable to move. So this is ideal for older people who live or spend a lot of time alone. It’s also an excellent feature for people that have medication side effects.
Other than the added cost, there is no other downside to having a fall detection feature on your device. But the products we picked and reviewed for you all have this option included for the same price as a standalone device.
FAQs About Medical Alert Systems
#1. Who are these devices meant for?
Medical alert system devices are meant for the senior population in general. Older people often live alone and use mobility-assisted devices. They are also more prone to falling than the other part of the population.
People with severe medical conditions that require medical attention can also use these devices. Using this device by people who live in an unsafe neighborhood or environment is also recommendable.
#2. How do medical alert systems work?
Medical alert systems track and monitor your health, providing safety and peace of mind. In case of an emergency, just press the emergency help button. If you cannot do it, fall detection will react in your stead, sending a signal to an operator.
The operator will ask you if you need any help and how difficult your situation is. They will contact your relatives and send emergency services if required. If you are unconscious or unable to speak, the emergency services will automatically be sent to your address.
#3. Do you need a phone line to use the system?
You can use a standard telephone line or the newer VoIP(Voice Over Internet Protocol) depending on the system. The cable companies usually provide an option like DSL (Digital Subscriber Line). Homebased systems are integrated and use landlines.
However, landlines are becoming a thing of the past, and wireless devices are everybody’s choice, primarily for convenience. Almost all devices and brands offer wireless and stable connectivity. The only downside to them is that they are a bit more costly.
#4. What is the range of the devices?
Depending on the brand and product quality, the range varies. Higher quality products offer a 600-foot range. That’s the length of two football fields!
But if you want to have an even better option, high-end products in this category offer up to a 1000-foot range.
On the other hand, you don’t have to worry about the range if you use a mobile medical alert device. These devices use cellular signals to communicate, and the most important thing with these devices is whether the provider has cell coverage.
#5. Can more than one person be protected at one location?
Yes, and this is very commonly used in practice. Large nursing homes that care for the elderly may have several people connected to one caregiver. They can monitor up to 5 people this way.
This is also the case for in-home use. People living with their senior parents can now monitor their health and well-being simultaneously using just 1 device. Opting for mobile devices is even better. You won’t have to worry about leaving the house to go to the supermarket or for a run and leave someone alone and unattended.
#6. What if there is a power outage?
Some of the in-home medical alert systems need electricity to operate. However, the products we reviewed and fall into this category have built-in backup batteries. This is a feature introduced as a failsafe in cases of power outages.
Almost all systems have a 24-72 hour range on the backup battery life. After the power is restored, the devices are usually restarted. A power outage or low battery status will also notify the monitoring services.
#7. How often can I press the button?
There is no limit to how many times you can press the distress button. If you are unsure that the signal is being sent, please push it several times until you are contacted.
Something that monitoring and customer care services might do is to encourage you to push the button at least once a week. This way, they can perform tests of the equipment and make sure everything is working fine.
Monitor alert systems may also have a self-diagnostic feature. This way, it automatically alerts the monitoring services of any problems.
#8. Who installs the system?
It is often unnecessary for anyone but yourself to be able to install the system. The setup is pretty straightforward and only takes a couple of minutes.
You need to plug the device into an electrical socket and the telephone line for in-home systems. Once connected, you simply press the button to make verification, and you’re all set.
For mobile systems and devices, the process is even easier. All you need to do is follow the provided instructions for pairing the devices together.
#9. How will the emergency services personnel enter my home if I cannot open the door?
Besides the emergency services, the monitoring team will also contact your friends, neighbors, or family members. They may be able to meet the emergency services and provide them with a key to open the door.
Another good option if you are unsure that your contacts cannot come in time is to order a Lock Box. This box contains the keys to your home within it. This way, the Lock Box specialist will provide the combination numbers of the box to the emergency services so they can enter your home without damage.
#10. Where can a medical alert Lock Box be installed?
You should carefully consider where to install your Lock Box. The box should be visible enough for the emergency services to find it quickly. But be careful; it should not attract the attention of potential criminals.
If you are installing a Lock Box for your parent, tell them about it so they also know where it is. A good put the Lock Box would be somewhere in the front of the property or on its side.
#11. What type of information does the monitoring center have access to?
Monitoring services almost always have access to the information that only you provide. This may include your address, contact list, fastest route to your home, or even your Lock Box information.
The goal, especially with certified monitoring agencies, is to respond quickly with minimal information. They strive to contact the most relevant people and agencies and give them concise information.
#12. Can monitoring representatives listen in and invade your privacy?
A call can only be established if you trigger an alarm automatically or manually. Other than that, the monitoring services can’t initiate a call; they can only receive them.
It is worth mentioning that certified monitoring representatives are exclusive professionals at their job. High-end other medical alert companies tend to employ male and female personnel with deep psychological knowledge. In a moment of emergency, these individuals can turn the tide for you in one way or another.
#13. What happens if something goes wrong with the equipment?
We can indeed say this is rarely the case, and we barely encountered any such experience from customers. Nevertheless, everything eventually fails, and in that case, the medical alert company should offer you a return option within the first 30 days of purchase.
Companies who lease their equipment also offer service for it for a given period. It’s in their best interest that their devices function 100% all the time and will tend to resolve the problem fast.
All of the manufacturers we reviewed have you covered at this point, so there is no need to worry.
Conclusion: Which Medical Alert Device Should I buy?
We wanted to address all of you in this article, especially the senior population. Many many medical alert systems are still not used to this modern world and its advancements. Our goal was to try to familiarize them with some of its benefits.
We mainly wanted to introduce what we consider the best medical alert systems. These medical alert devices will help them in their everyday lives, especially in emergencies.
Hopefully, a review of these 3 top medical alert systems products will convince you of their benefits, followed by some buying guide tips. We also answered some of the most important questions you might have had following the article.
To wrap it up, we would again like to emphasize the importance of well-being and security. That was, after all, the primary reason we wrote this article. And nothing is more important than the health and safety of the family!
