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Are Medical Alert Systems Worth It?
Medical alert systems are a fairly affordable must-have for seniors living at home with disabilities or health concerns, as they provide immediate access to emergency services.
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At a glance:
- With a help button that connects seniors to a dedicated monitoring center, medical alert systems provide peace of mind and improve the quality of life for those with a high risk of falls or medical emergencies.
- Additional features like automatic fall detection, GPS location tracking, and caregiver notifications can be life-saving for seniors looking to age in place.
- Medical alert devices have an average monthly cost of $37 (between $25 and $50), but are also often covered by Medicaid, Medicare Advantage (Part C), Veterans Benefits, and local non-profits.
What Is The Typical Cost of a Medical Alert System?
The average monthly cost for a medical alert system, otherwise known as a personal emergency response system (PERS), is $37. Though the full cost you’ll pay also depends on one-time equipment fees, whether it’s a base unit or mobile device, and the cost of additional features. The key to deciding whether a new monitored system is worth it is understanding its costs.
Understanding Medical Alert System Costs
Medical alert systems have several costs to consider, depending on the brand and type of device. For example, you may be responsible for one-time equipment fees, activation fees, monthly fees, long-term contracts, and even cancellation fees. However, the best medical alert systems outline pricing clearly and don’t typically punish you for cancellations.
One-Time Equipment Fees vs. Monthly Fees
Equipment and activation fees are generally one-time expenses that cover the cost of installing the base station and emergency button, or the initial cost of a wearable device. Some plans offer no-cost equipment as part of a larger contract, but not all. On the other hand, monthly fees cover the 24/7, ongoing landline or cellular connection to the medical alert company’s response center.
- Equipment fees: $0-$350+, one time
- Activation fees: $0-$100+, one time
- Monthly fees: $25-$50+ per month
Additional Features Add Monthly Costs
Access to extra features usually adds to the base monthly cost. Automatic fall detection is one of the best examples, increasing monthly payments by an extra $10 on average. Mobile GPS tracking, device insurance, key lockboxes, and extra wall buttons can all also add between $5–$20 to the total. However, many older adults report that these features are worth it and improve their well-being.
Medical Alert Device Prices By Type of System
There are several key differences between landline-based, in-home systems and mobile systems that rely on a cellular network, including pricing. To help decide which type of system is more worth it for your situation, we’ve outlined their pricing and capabilities:
| Type of system | Average monthly cost | Description |
|---|---|---|
| In-home (landline) | $20–$35 | Reliable landline connection for emergency calls at home. |
| In-home (cellular) | $30–$40 | Stronger connectivity and easy relocation without needing a phone jack. |
| Mobile (cellular) | $30–$50 | Strong connection anywhere there’s coverage for regular in-home and outdoor use. |
| Smartwatch | $40–$60 | Worn like a smartwatch with added features like fall detection, GPS services, and health tracking. |
The Pros and Cons of a New Medical Alert Device
If you or a loved one has mobility concerns, medical alert systems provide a life-saving connection to dedicated call centers. That way, emergency responders can reach you as quickly as possible when medical or mobility issues arise.
However, before you invest, here are some essential factors to consider:
Medical Alert System Pros
- Better safety at home: Up to one in four seniors experience falls annually, but medical alert systems provide immediate access to emergency responders when these falls, or other medical emergencies occur.
- Supports independence: Ease of use makes aging in place easier for seniors, especially when you don’t want to rely on family members or caregivers. Just hit the help button whenever you’re in need.
- Immediate emergency access: With 24/7 connection to trained responders and average response times of 10–60 seconds, you’ll get timely help in urgent situations.
- Portable and flexible: Many devices that rely on cellular service, including basic wristbands and advanced smartwatches, can be used both at home and on the go.
- Customizable features: Options like automatic fall detection, GPS tracking, and compatible cell phone apps let seniors choose systems that fit their lifestyle and budget.
Medical Alert System Cons
- Ongoing expense: Unless the system is unmonitored, you’ll need to pay monthly or annually to continue accessing services, which can add up over time.
- Technology limitations: Wi-Fi or cellular-based systems may experience connectivity or battery life issues, and advanced features may require regular updates or troubleshooting.
- User adaptation: Working with unfamiliar technology can be difficult for some seniors, but you can always take advantage of trial periods to build your tech skills.
Professional Tips For Making Your Medical Alert System More “Worth It”
Making a medical alert device “worth it” is mainly about either reducing the cost or improving safety features. Here’s what our experts suggest:
Find Financial Assistance
While Original Medicare and most private healthcare plans won’t cover the cost of a medical alert device, there are other financial assistance methods. Some of our top recommendations include:
- Medicare Advantage may partially or fully cover the cost of medical alert systems, but you’ll need to check with your specific plan and provide proof of medical necessity. You can also find more information on Medicare.gov.
- Medicaid often covers medical alert systems, also known as Personal Emergency Response Systems (PERS). While plans vary by state, most Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) waivers can help fund your new system.
- Veterans benefits, like Veterans Directed Home and Community Based Services (VD-HCBS), can help cover the cost of a medical alert system for senior service members. Eligibility typically depends on disability or injuries you sustained during or after combat.
- Long-term care insurance, such as certain individual, joint, and employer-sponsored plans, can help cover the cost of a new system, but check your plan’s details first.
- Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) are tax-advantaged savings accounts that allow you to withdraw pre-tax funds for a medical alert system recommended by your doctor.
- Charities and nonprofits, like your local Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) or Lions Clubs, may provide funding or access to donated or discounted medical alert systems.
Choose Quality Brands
Companies like Life Alert may be popular, but that doesn’t mean they’re the most cost-effective option. In fact, while Life Alert requires high upfront spending and lengthy three-year contracts (including cancellation fees), other brands offer more features for less.
For example, Medical Guardian, MobileHelp, Bay Alarm Medical, Medical Care Alert, and Lifeline all provide features that Life Alert doesn’t—including added fall detection and mobile app compatibility—at more affordable starting price points. Additionally, while some of these brands have upfront, one-time equipment costs, none require you to sign a contract.
Invest In Advanced Features
In-home base units may be affordable, but extra features like mobility, automatic fall detection, heart rate monitoring, and GPS tracking can all make the investment more “worth it” for both seniors on the go and severely disabled individuals. For just $10 extra a month, you can enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing that you’ll receive help right away, anywhere with a cellular connection, even if you fall unconscious.
Get a Warranty or Protection Plan
Medical alert devices are very reliable, but all electronic equipment has the potential for malfunctions. Luckily, many companies offer:
- Accidental damage protection for drops, spills, or wear and tear.
- Battery replacement programs to maintain reliable 24/7 connectivity.
- Extended warranties that offer coverage for issues that aren’t normally covered.
- Priority replacement or shipping so you’re never without emergency protection.
Our Takeaway: Medical Alert Systems are Affordable for Seniors
Whether you’re a disabled senior already living at home or looking to get out of a nursing home, medical alert devices are a great investment. For an average of just $37 a month, you’ll have 24/7 access to a monitoring center when emergencies occur. Added features like fall detection and GPS tracking can further improve your safety. Plus, if you can prove they’re a medical necessity, Medicare Advantage, Medicaid, and Veterans Benefits can all help cover these devices for seniors wanting to age in place.
FAQs About the Value of Medical Alert Systems
The most reliable medical alert companies have clear policies, no long-term contracts, and offer a variety of devices and additional features. Medical Guardian, MobileHelp, Bay Alarm Medical, Medical Care Alert, and Lifeline are all high-quality brands. Though you should always research available devices and customer reviews before you invest.
Medical alert devices that are deemed a medical necessity are often covered by Medicaid, Medicare Advantage, Veterans Benefits, and long-term care insurance. However, they are not usually covered by Original Medicare.
The cost to install a medical alert system depends on whether there are one-time equipment or activation fees. Some companies waive these fees, while others may charge $100–$350+.
Yes, smartwatches can be more “worth it” if you travel regularly and need access to advanced features like GPS tracking and heart rate monitoring. However, they’re generally more expensive month-to-month.
Yes, medical alert systems can help seniors avoid assisted living through 24/7 access to emergency responders, fall detection, location tracking, and more. While they don’t replace the need for professional healthcare or home modifications, they can give both seniors and their families peace of mind while living at home.
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