A fall or sudden illness when you are alone can be frightening, especially if you cannot reach a phone. A medical alert system, sometimes called a personal emergency response system, lets you call for help by pressing a button you wear. For many people living alone, and for their families, it brings peace of mind.
How medical alert systems work
You wear a small button as a pendant, wristband or watch. When you press it, the device connects you to:
- A 24-hour monitoring center, where a trained operator talks with you through the device and sends help, such as a family member, neighbor or 911.
- Or, with some unmonitored devices, pre-set contacts such as family members.
Types of systems
In-home systems. A base station connects to a landline or cellular network. The button works within a set range of the base, usually throughout the home and sometimes the yard.
Mobile systems. A device with cellular service and GPS works at home and away, so help can find you on a walk or at the store. They need regular charging.
Automatic fall detection. Some devices can sense a fall and call for help automatically. This feature can help if you are unconscious, but it does not detect every fall and can sometimes go off by mistake. Always press the button if you need help.
Smartwatches and phones. Some smartwatches and phones have emergency calling and fall detection. They can be a good option for people comfortable with the technology, but check how they call for help and whether a monitoring service is included.
Questions to ask before you buy
- What is the monthly fee, and are there equipment, activation or shipping fees?
- Is there a long-term contract, and what is the cancellation policy?
- Is the monitoring center staffed 24 hours a day, and how quickly do operators answer?
- How far from the base station does the button work?
- Is the button waterproof so I can wear it in the shower? Many falls happen in the bathroom.
- How long does the battery last, and how will I know when it is low?
- Does it work with my phone service, or will I need a landline or cellular plan?
- What happens if the power or phone service goes out?
- Can I test it regularly without charge?
Paying for a medical alert system
Original Medicare does not cover medical alert systems. Some options that may help:
- Some Medicare Advantage plans include a medical alert benefit.
- Medicaid home and community-based services in some states.
- Area Agencies on Aging and local hospitals sometimes offer reduced-cost programs.
- Veterans may be able to get devices through VA health care.
Getting the most from your device
- Wear it all the time, including at night and in the shower if it is waterproof.
- Test it monthly.
- Keep your contact list up to date.
- Give a key to a trusted neighbor or use a lockbox so responders can get in.
A medical alert device works best alongside steps to prevent falls. See fall-proofing your home and balance exercises you can do at home.
