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Lively Review

4.5 Overall Rating

4.6 Stars
4.7 Stars
4 Stars
4.5 Stars

Bottom Line

If you’ve been thinking about getting a medical alert system for yourself or a loved one, Lively Medical Alert devices are highly-rated for helping people live more independently, and the company has been providing simple-to-use medical alert devices and smartphones for seniors for over a decade. We chose Lively for inclusion in our Best Medical Alert Systems guide because of affordable plans and upfront cost, fast response times, and top notch customer service.

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About Lively

If you’ve been thinking about getting a medical alert system for yourself or a loved one, Lively Medical Alert devices are highly rated for helping people live more independently, and the company has been providing simple-to-use medical alert devices and smartphones for seniors for over a decade. We chose Lively for inclusion in our Best Medical Alert Systems guide because of its affordable plans and upfront cost, fast response times, and top-notch customer service.

Lively, formerly known as GreatCall, is a technology company based in San Diego and has been operating since 2005. The company offers Lively devices designed to help older adults age in place, featuring streamlined designs and built-in accessibility and safety features.

Lively is primarily known for ts Jitterbug Flip2 and Jitterbug Smart4 cellphones, as well as the Lively medical alert device and the Lively Mobile2 Alert, which connects users to 24/7 emergency help.

Pros

  • Connects to 24/7 assistance, caregivers, and emergency responders
  • Water-resistant for everyday wear and activities
  • Runs on reliable Verizon cellular network at no additional charge

Cons

  • Speaker quality may diminish in noisy settings
  • Lively Mobile Plus requires a nightly charge

Lively Products and Services

Lively Mobile2 Medical Alert

The Lively Mobile2 is Lively’s newest all-in-one medical alert device designed for active older adults who want reliable protection at home or on the go. The device includes a charging dock, a charger, a magnetic lanyard, and a belt clip, giving you multiple ways to wear it comfortably throughout the day. It’s compact, lightweight, and water-resistant, so it can even be worn in the shower. 

Built-in GPS location tracking helps Lively’s U.S.-based Urgent Response agents quickly locate you in an emergency, while the loud, clear two-way speaker lets you talk directly to an agent through the device—no smartphone or smartwatch required.

When you press the call button, the Lively Mobile2 connects you to a certified Lively Urgent Response agent located in a U.S.-based call center within seconds through the nation’s largest cellular network. The agent can confirm your location, assess the situation, and contact family members or emergency responders as needed. 

Optional fall detection automatically triggers a call for help if a sudden fall is detected. Together, these features make the Lively Mobile2 a dependable choice for users seeking peace of mind and continuous access to assistance wherever life takes them.

Lively Mobile2 Key Features

There are several key features available with the Lively Mobile2, depending on the monthly plan you choose. They include:

Urgent Response
With just one press of the help button, you’re instantly connected to a certified Lively Urgent Response agent from the monitoring center—available 24/7, day or night. These trained professionals can locate you through GPS, contact emergency services response team, and notify loved ones if needed. Whether it’s a medical emergency or you simply feel unsafe, you’ll always reach a real person who’s ready to help.

Lively Link App
The Lively Link app keeps families and caregivers connected and informed. Through the app, loved ones can see your device’s battery level, check your location if there’s an alert, and receive notifications in an emergency. It’s designed to give caregivers peace of mind while helping older adults maintain their independence.

Care Advocate
The Care Advocate service gives you access to a personal care coordinator who can help you set health and wellness goals, find resources, and make sense of confusing medical or insurance information. It’s like having a knowledgeable partner to guide you through the details of managing your health.

Nurse On-Call
With Nurse On-Call, you can speak directly to a registered nurse or board-certified doctor without leaving home. This service can answer health questions, discuss symptoms, and even provide prescriptions when appropriate. It’s a convenient option for times when you want medical advice but don’t need to visit a clinic.


Lively Mobile2 Pricing

The Lively Mobile2 has a one-time device cost of $79.99, plus taxes and fees. After purchasing the device, customers choose a monthly service plan to activate 24/7 monitoring. There is no contract required.

Lively Monthly Service Plans

Lively offers two plan options—Basic and Premium—both designed to fit different levels of support and peace of mind.

  • Basic Plan – Starts at $24.99 per month and includes access to Urgent Response and the Lively Link app, which keeps caregivers and loved ones informed in real time.
  • Premium Plan – Includes all Basic Plan features, along with Care Advocate and Nurse On-Call for personalized health guidance and support.

All plans are month-to-month with no long-term contracts, and service is powered by the nation’s largest cellular network for reliable coverage wherever you go.

Lively’s Optional Add-Ons

Customers can add fall detection to either plan for $9.99 per month. This feature automatically connects users to help if a fall is detected, even when they can’t press the help button.

How to Buy Lively Mobile2

Lively Mobile2 is available for purchase through the Lively website. Lively is a Best Buy Health company. If you would prefer to purchase it in person, enter your ZIP code in the store locator on the site to find the nearest Best Buy.


Lively Medical Alert Customer Reviews

Overall, Lively earns high marks for device ease of use, caregiver connectivity, and emergency response support. On the Better Business Bureau (BBB) site, Lively holds an A+ rating, which reflects its accreditation and overall standing in consumer trust. 

Many users highlight the peace of mind that comes with the Mobile2 device: one-button access to help, clear audio, and reliable response times. From ConsumerAffairs, the system is lauded for simplicity and caregiver-friendly features, though a few users say they faced issues with device charging or setup. 

On the flip side, some reviewers raise concerns about billing and customer-service responsiveness. For example, multiple Trustpilot reviews mention long wait times for support or difficulty canceling the service. 

As with any service, it’s wise to test the equipment early, review the contract terms carefully, and keep an eye on billing practices so you get the full benefit of the system without unexpected issues.


GreatCall Lively Medical Alert FAQs

How does Lively Mobile2 notify a caregiver or family member in case of an emergency?

First, your family member, emergency contact, or caregiver must install the Lively Link app on their smartphone. Then, they will receive an alert through the app on their phone if they press the emergency button to call for help. This service is available with both the Basic and Premium monthly plans.

How does fall detection work on the Lively Medical Alert device?

Lively Mobile2 has an optional fall detection feature as an add-on. Its internal technology can detect sudden changes in body acceleration, which happens during a fall. If the device detects that you’ve fallen, it automatically contacts Urgent Response agents. They can use your GPS tracking to send help to your exact location in the event you are unconscious. You need to wear the Lively Mobile Mobile2 on a lanyard around your neck to enable fall detection.

Is there an activation fee or setup costs for Lively Mobile2?

There are no long-term contracts or hidden activation fees required to start service with the Lively Mobile2. After paying the one-time equipment fee, customers simply choose a monthly plan and can activate it online or over the phone with help from a Lively representative. Setup is quick, user-friendly, and straightforward. Most users can get the device up and running in just a few minutes.

How does Lively compare to competitors?

Compared to competitors, such as Bay Alarm Medical, Medical Guardian, and Life Alert, the Lively Mobile2 stands out for its simplicity, mobility, and flexible pricing. Using cellular coverage, no base station, landline, or Wi-Fi is required. Lively also offers unique features, such as the Lively Link caregiver app, Nurse On-Call, and Care Advocate services, that go beyond the traditional emergency monitoring offered by competitors. While other brands provide excellent protection, Lively’s focus on connection, wellness support, and easy setup makes it a strong choice for active older adults who want reliable help on the go.

Does Lively require a contract?

No long-term contract is required with Lively. The Lively Mobile2 offers a flexible, month-to-month plan that can be changed or canceled at any time without penalties, giving you the freedom to adjust your service as your needs evolve. This makes it a convenient option for those who prefer commitment-free coverage with easy cancellation.


Conclusion

The Lively Mobile2 offers dependable protection and an easy way to stay connected wherever you go. With 24/7 Urgent Response, optional fall detection, and wellness tools like Nurse On-Call and Care Advocate, it provides more than emergency support—it’s everyday peace of mind for you and your loved ones. Whether you’re out running errands or relaxing at home, Lively helps you feel safe, supported, and independent.

For comparisons with other medical alert systems, read:


15 Lively Reviews

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1 Star

February 03 2022 8:58PM

My mother has had a Lively Medical Alert device for a year and it has been nothing but trouble. It needs a cell phone, which a 92 year old doesn't always know how to manage. But we cancelled her landline and got her a cell. Since this device depends on cell reception, in our rural area it was not reliable.

We paid for the fall detection service since she is at risk for falling. One morning she did fall and the device malfunctioned completely!! She wasn't able to get anyone to answer her call and the fall detection did not work.

She had to scoot naked on her butt out to the living room to get to the phone and call 911 for help. The device was worthless. I was furious because this could have been so awful for my mom and I called Lively to report this.

Various people tried to troubleshoot the issue, each giving me a different answer. Finally a manager stated that the device had been out of service for the time when it was needed. However, the green light was on, the battery was fully charged giving us no indication there was a problem.

Their answer was never satisfactory to me, since it seemed they were each venturing a different guess as to what happened. When I asked for a refund for the year, they resisted but finally agreed to a 3 month break on payment for the device.

Since that incident we have had Mom test it every evening to make sure there is a connection. But I have no faith in the system and the company. We have cancelled our service and would not recommend this device to anyone.

We have set up a new land line for my mom and have gotten a different company to provide her with the medical alert.

The new company doesn't require her to remember to charge the device each day (which means it has to be taken off and not worn for a period of time!) and will hopefully be much more reliable with the landline. Lively was a complete disappointment. I can't believe AARP endorses this device!

June H.
Homestead, IA
5 Stars

May 23 2021 1:34AM

I've had the Lively for years. I've had to call them & have good responses & help. They even called people I have listed because I accidentally pushed the button for help when didn't answer the people on the other end.

Once everyone was called they told them I was ok no big deal. The light on top wasn't connecting to the person the other end. All I had to do is reboot the device.

Nan B.
Big Lake, MN
5 Stars

January 09 2021 3:09AM

I've had Lively hearing aids for almost a year and I still love them! Being able to "control" the hearing aids with my cell phone makes my life so much easier. The initial Zoom meetings answered every question I had and I also got some great tips.

I've had experience with Customer Service a few times and they go above and beyond to satisfy their customers. I have already told many friends about Lively. They have a quality product at a great price and they back it up with 100% satisfaction. I am so thankful that I found Lively.

Patricia G.
Kissimmee, FL
1 Star

July 14 2019 2:59PM

One of my family members got the GreatCall Lively Plus, Medical Alert device for safety and to seek emergency help when needed. Well it was needed recently and it did not help at all, for several hours no one knew she needed help, it did not call 911, it was suppose to connect us family members it did not. After several conversations with GreatCall, we finally were told do not use it, package it up and return it for a $50.00 Best Buy Gift Card. What a con job, we checked and it had been recalled yet no one told us until we called them. Now it is time to hold them accountable and seek legal action, they can not be believed or trusted

Liz N.
Portland, OR
1 Star

July 11 2019 2:00AM

I'm an American Disabled Veteran, who had been doing business with GreatCall since 2015, when this year they asked me to get the new Mobile Lively Plus Device as it is 100% better than the old one. So I did, when I needed it twice it did NOT work, no operator, no 911, no fall detection, no GPS, not waterproof.

Nothing would work and I suffered from 2 falls. Great Call tried to lie and lie and cover up the truth that the device is defective and does NOT work, they tried to bribe me with a $50 gift card to there own company, then one of their lawyer tried to offer me $1500.00 I declined now they are in at least one Federal Class Action suit, soon I will be bringing a state suit for fraud, theft, threats, intimidation, unfair business practices, elder abuse, discrimination, civil rights violations and more.

We have learned that they have been paying $$$ to many sites and fake news online to say they are a good company one writer admitted today he was paid to say good things about this device same with Business Wire they too got paid to print their fake story. IF you own any BBY shares sell them and tell others these two companies do NOT care about you or your health or safety just you $$$$$ They even tried to get their hi-powered lawyers ( DLA. Piper) to intimidate me off the case that was a major mistake of theirs now I'm bringing a state case and will be doing more to let the Public know the truth and facts.

Scott B.
San Luis Obispo, CA
1 Star

July 06 2019 1:20AM

Today I spoke to a Great Call customer service person (I will expose if it was a male or female) as the person said they could be fired for telling the truth, so this person called me after hours from their home.

As was revealed, the company Great Call willfully and with malice aforethought stated the company knew the New Mobile Lively Plus device was ineffective and defective from day one, the engineers of the software dept. warned the powers at be of this problem! Yet the corporate bosses had it sold anyway as the company needed a boost in profits.

The Device was only recalled after numerous complaints were received by the public. Both Best Buy and Great Call both lied to the Public, media and American people pulled off a major theft, defrauded the public as well as stock manipulation to gain profits. Now that the general public knows of the fraud, SEC violations and other violations of US codes the two companies are now being sued in US District Courts as well as several State Courts.

If you are a victim of Great Call and Best Buy I highly recommend you retain counsel and file suits, the American people have been conned by these companies and it is time to go after them in the courts and in the eyes of Public Opinion.

Don A.
Culver City, CA
1 Star

July 01 2019 10:32PM

When help was needed I pushed the client's Great Call button? Waited, waited no response. Called 911 from a Landline. Had we relied on this crappy failed Great Call Lively Plus my client would be Dead. After telling the family members of the issue they called Great Call and got the go-around of excuses and denials, all lies, as the device in now on a Safety Recall. The companies Best Buy and Great Call will be held liable for the lying, false advertising and failed Medical Device that is not working and apparently never did...

Joey P.
Daly City, CA
1 Star

June 30 2019 1:09AM

Liars, cheaters, scammers and one big scam to defraud the people who are ill and dying, how this company can exist is suspicious at best, deceitful and liars. They have sold fake and defective medical devices and they knew it and still sold it. Malice and fraud is the only thing to say about them....

Jimmie H.
Torrance, CA
1 Star

June 28 2019 2:51AM

Received notice from my employer that the GreatCall Lively Mobile Plus emergency Medical device is on recall?Tthat all the staff need to return the devices to HR, why didn't Great Call or Best Buy tell us the devices do not work, don't help anyone if needed. I tried it and yep, it did NOT work. How dare these companies falsely inform the public and elderly sick people who got one not knowing the device is faulty and a failed device. No one should have to find out the hard way, when you need help and it does not work, you die. Dirty lying corrupt corporate America - Best Buy and GreatCall you are dishonest and deceitful....

Stephen G.
Long Beach, CA
1 Star

June 27 2019 2:57PM

How can anyone give this company a rating of anything but VERY BAD, first the up sale pitch is one big fat lie, they talk up the device yet when you need to use it, nothing works as advertised. No it did not locate my wife or notify me. It did not even connect to a emergency operator, no help was dispatched, nothing when we called which took over 11 minutes of waiting, far too long we were told that the Device needs to be returned ASAP as it is in a safety recall? Safety Recall-- what they mean is a cover up of the facts the entire program and its devices are B.S. and not ever going to work as we were told. DO NOT use or buy this device if you cherish your loved ones this is a dangerous UN-dependable non functioning device. It is a fraud on all who bought one.

Larry P.
Redondo Beach, CA