The 5 Best Medical Alert Systems of 2025, Tested by Caregivers
Bay Alarm Medical systems impressed us with fast response times, reliable equipment, and ample features for caregivers.
A good medical alert system gives you the peace of mind that, should anything go wrong, you or your aging loved one will get help in a timely manner. However, that’s only true if you pick the right medical alert system for your specific needs. That’s why our team of senior safety experts tested and rated over 50 medical alert systems before narrowing down our top picks for the best medical alert systems on the market.
Bay Alarm Medical is our top pick thanks to their quick response times, reliable equipment, and affordable prices. We also recommend Medical Guardian. Although pricier than Bay Alarm Medical, Medical Guardian had the fastest average response time of only eight seconds during our test calls. We also found ADT Medical to be a reliable option with fast response times and durable equipment, as long as you’re not looking for fancy, high-tech features.
Why Trust Us
Tapsenior team of caregivers, experts, and healthcare professionals conducted over 5,000 hours of research and testing to recommend the most reliable brands and devices. During the process, our team:
- Tested 50 medical alert devices from 15 brands
- Surveyed 1,250 seniors and caregivers in our medical alert system usage survey
- Consulted with nurses, EMTs, and caregivers who are experts at caring for older adults
- Published dozens of videos that demonstrate our medical alert system testing1
- Evaluated verified customer reviews of medical alert companies from the Better Business Bureau
Expert Examined
From Cody McGonagill
Firefighter/EMT
With over a decade dedicated to public safety, I have witnessed significant advancements in medical alert systems. These devices range in their pros and cons, but one thing remains unchanged: The ability to signal for help wherever you are is a pivotal benefit for our elderly and disabled communities.
Our Top-Rated Medical Alert Systems
- Bay Alarm Medical : In-Home and Mobile Devices
- Medical Guardian : Fastest Response Times
- ADT : Best In-Home Systems
- MobileHelp : Best Budget Options
- Lively Mobile2 : Best Caregiver Features
Other Medical Alert Systems We’ve Tested
Although we would never recommend Life Alert for any user, several other medical alert systems impressed us, but did not make the cut. Each of the systems below possesses some unique features that make it worth considering.
UnaliWear Kanega Watch
This medical alert watch not only has accurate fall detection, but it also features a unique system of four batteries that allows the user to wear the device 24/7. Unfortunately, the watch costs $299 upfront and a monthly subscription of at least $84.95. Read our Kanega Watch review to learn more.
Lifeline
Arguably the most well-known medical alert brand after Life Alert, Lifeline systems performed well overall. Their above-average pricing, with costs starting at $39.95 for their mobile system, keep them from making the cut. Read our Lifeline review to learn more.
What to Avoid When Buying a Medical Alert
Here are some red flags to look out for when buying a medical alert system.
Long-term contracts: Some providers will lock you into a three-year contract with no option to cancel. Make sure the company you’re signing up with has a monthly option.
High fees: From high equipment fees to high monthly fees, some companies are overpriced. UnaliWear, for example, charges $299 for their smartwatch and at least $84.95 per month, many times more than competitors such as Medical Guardian and Bay Alarm Medical.
Lack of fall detection: Check for this essential feature when considering a medical alert system. Some systems, such as Life Alert, don’t include it.
Slow response: Make sure to read our reviews to find out how quickly companies respond to alerts. A difference of even a few seconds could mean everything during an emergency.
How Do Medical Alert Systems Work?
At their core, all medical alert systems have a similar function. When you trigger them, by either falling or pushing the button, they will connect you to a monitoring center, whose personnel will assess your situation and, if necessary, contact emergency services.
There are several types of medical alert systems for use both in and outside the home. Below is an overview of the categories.
To learn more about these devices, read our guide to medical alert devices.
In-Home Medical Alert Systems
In-home medical alert systems come in two main types: landline and cellular. Both feature a base station equipped with a two-way speaker that connects directly to monitoring staff. To use it, the person simply presses a small help button worn on the neck or wrist, which activates the speaker.
Landline systems: Landline systems require a working landline to connect with a monitoring center. They are easy to install: just plug them into a power outlet and phone jack. Landline systems tend to be the most affordable option.
Cellular systems: If you don’t have a landline, consider cellular medical alert systems. Plug in the power source and the system will initiate. Cellular systems often look identical to their landline counterparts, but they usually cost $5 to $10 more, which includes the cost of cellular service.
FYI: Before purchasing a cellular system, verify that your home receives adequate cellular coverage by asking which cellular carrier (usually Verizon or AT&T) the medical alert company uses. If your home doesn’t have adequate cellular coverage, your system won’t work properly.
Mobile Medical Alert Systems
Mobile medical alert systems are a great choice for those who want the ability to call for help while on the go. These portable devices use a cellular connection and include a two-way speaker and a help button, offering the same level of protection as in-home systems, in a travel-friendly form.
All mobile medical alerts are even GPS-enabled. That allows monitoring staff and loved ones to locate a user while their device is turned on, which is important since some users may be unable to verbalize their location if they are hurt, confused, or otherwise experiencing an emergency.
Medical Alert Watches
The medical alert smartwatch provides safety in a sleek and discreet package. The systems work independently of a cell phone, and they look like a typical wristwatch. Not only are they stylish, lifesaving devices, but they also operate as a functional watch, activity tracker, and messenger.
To learn more about the systems, read our guide to the best smartwatches for seniors.
How Does Medical Alert Monitoring Work?
Medical alert systems function as a direct contact line between the user and a monitoring center. Medical alert companies contract monitoring centers to provide 24/7 care to customers. They do so by receiving distress calls, assessing the situation (emergency or otherwise) and then contacting an appropriate response measure.
Monitoring centers are not your average call center. Not only are they staffed well enough to field calls in seconds, but their specialists often receive extensive training to ensure a high degree of care.
Not all medical alert systems, however, require monthly fees. To learn more, check out our list of unmonitored medical alert systems.
How to Choose a Medical Alert System
If you’re interested in purchasing a medical alert system, here are some questions you should consider.
In-Home or Mobile?
Medical alert systems can be broken down into two categories: systems for use in the home and systems for use outside.
In-home systems: In-home systems connect through either a landline or cellular connection. When you press your help button, which you’ll wear as either a wristband or pendant, generally, you’ll be connected to the monitoring center via the base station, which has both a speaker and microphone for easy communication. In-home systems are best suited for people who spend most of their time indoors, although some systems have a large enough connectivity range to cover parts of your yard.
Mobile systems: Mobile systems connect through cellular service, allowing you to travel just about anywhere with adequate service. Most often worn as a pendant, the systems provide the same security and peace of mind as in-home models, but with a greater range. The systems are more expensive, generally, and are best for active seniors who leave their homes often.
What Are Your Monitoring Needs?
Each of the systems mentioned here comes with some form of 24/7 professional monitoring, but some offer additional features suited to individual needs.
Caregiver apps and platforms make it easier for family members and caregivers to stay connected and informed. They can track the user’s location, monitor activity, and confirm whether the device is being worn. Through the app, loved ones can place check-in calls, coordinate with other caregivers, and even keep an eye on system metrics like home temperature, carbon monoxide levels, and any emergency alerts triggered by the device.
Many medical alert providers also offer personalized response plans. With these plans, a call to the monitoring center can also trigger alerts to neighbors or loved ones. A monitoring agent can certainly contact emergency services, but not every help call requires such drastic action. We always appreciate these individualized responses.
How Much Is Your Budget?
Consider your budget when deciding on a medical alert system. First, there are equipment fees. Some companies, such as MobileHelp, offer equipment for free, while others, such as Medical Guardian, charge around $150 for equipment. There may or may not be a one-time activation fee, as well. Medical Guardian lacks activation fees, while ADT charges $99.99.
Then there are monthly, quarterly, or annual recurring costs, which range from about $24.95 to $44.95 a month. Fall detection usually costs $10 a month. Landline systems tend to be the most affordable in terms of subscription fees, while mobile smartwatches tend to cost the
What Is Automatic Fall Detection?
A fall can leave a person unable to reach for help, and that’s where medical alert systems with fall detection come in handy.
Through accelerometer technology, automatic fall-detection pendants can detect a fall and automatically call monitoring personnel without the user having to press the button. The technology is not 100 percent accurate and false alarms can occur, but we always recommend the feature for added peace of mind.
Do You Want Fall Detection?
Most medical alert systems offer automatic fall detection, which costs between $5 and $15 extra per month. It may be tempting to omit the feature to save money, but we think it’s essential and could even save your life.
Since falls are a leading cause of injury for those ages 65 or older,4 we always recommend spending the extra money on the feature.
Can an Apple Watch Replace a Medical Alert System?
The current lineup of Apple Watches includes emergency calling, fall detection, and location tracking for loved ones, as well as a slew of entertainment and health features. If you plan to use an Apple Watch instead of a medical alert system, however, there are a few things you should consider.
With an Apple Watch, emergency calls are routed to 911 operators. The operators can often detect a user’s location through the watch, but they do not possess other information about the user, which means they can only send emergency services. That poses issues if a user falls and is not injured, but cannot get back up on their own; 911 will only be able to call an ambulance.
If a person calls 911 with an Apple Watch and is unable to speak, the operators likely won’t send anyone to help. A monitoring agent, in contrast, can contact a neighbor for a wellness check-in.
To learn more about how Apple Watches stack up with medical alert systems in terms of features, costs, and fall-detection accuracy, read our full guide: Apple Watch vs. Medical Alert Systems
Bottom Line
Medical Guardian has the fastest response times, while ADT has the best in-home systems, Lively has the best options for caregivers, MobileHelp is best for those on a budget, and Bay Alarm Medical works well for people who need help in and out of the home.
As caregivers to older adults, we take great pride in helping people navigate the often complicated world of medical alert systems. Everyone deserves independence, regardless of age, and a reliable medical alert system is the perfect tool to help you do so.
If you made it this far, you can tell there is a lot to know about these systems. But have no fear! We’re here to do the legwork, testing the latest and greatest caregiver technology and making it easier for you to rest assured that your loved ones are aging gracefully.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best medical alert device on the market?
MobileHelp, Bay Alarm Medical, and Medical Guardian make some of the most reliable and affordable medical alert devices on the market.
Are medical alert systems worth it?
Costing as little as $20 per month, a medical alert system is one of the most affordable ways for seniors to stay safe in their homes and on the go, especially compared to more costly home modifications.
What is the average cost of a medical alert system?
On average, medical alert systems cost between $20 and $50 per month. Additional buttons and features, such as fall detection, usually cost an additional monthly charge.
Do you need Wi-Fi for medical alert systems?
No, you do not need Wi-Fi for most medical alert systems. They work through either your landline or cellular connection.
Does Medicare pay for medical alert systems?
No, Medicare will not pay for medical alert systems since they are not considered durable medical equipment. Some private insurance providers, however, offer partial coverage for medical alert systems.