DEDICATED TO THE IMPROVING OF THE LIVES
OF OLDER ADULTS THROUGH ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY

5 tips for choosing a medical alert device

While there are thousands of options, these tips can help narrow down your options.

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  1. Determine if you need a landline or cellular system.

  As the names imply, landlines plug into your phone jack, so if the device will be used only at home, this option should suffice. Much like a mobile phone, a cellular system connects to a cellular network and can be designed for mobile or at-home use, but are generally less reliable than a landline system.

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  2. Do you need a monitored system?

  A monitored system means the call button connects with someone at a 24/7 dispatch center. Other systems can call a person of your choosing like a family member or friend.

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  3. Do you need fall detection?

  Some companies offer fall detection for an additional fee. If this is a feature you need, many systems provide it.

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  4. Beware of complicated pricing plans and hidden fees.

  Companies will sometimes add these to ‘trick’ consumers. Look for ones without extra fees related to equipment, installation, or activation.

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  5. Find out if your insurance or Medicare will cover your system.

  In some states medicaid will cover at least part of the cost and your insurance company may offer discounts and waivers as well.

Fall Prevention in the U.S.

Falls among older adults are extremely common with an estimated 2.5 million older adults treated for fall injuries in the U.S. every year. An estimated 25,000 of those fall injuries result in death. Justifiably so, 8 out of 10 caregivers are worried about fall prevention for their parents or grandparents.