Medical Guardian vs Life Alert for 2021 | Best Medical Alert Systems

Item: Medical Guardian vs Life Alert
Rating: 5

Sunday, September 26th

2021 Medical Alert System Reviews

Medical Guardian

Cost: Starting at $29.95/month

Top Consumer Reviews Best-In-Class Blue Ribbon Award

Medical Guardian has been protecting seniors and others with affordable medical alert systems for more than three decades. Their five plans offer a wide variety of options, including in-home and mobile capabilities, with no fees for equipment and no required contracts. Customers rave about the rapid emergency response and the quality of the service. Medical Guardian continues to earn our highest ranking.

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Life Alert

Cost: $49.95/month, plus initial fees up to $200

Life Alert made itself famous in the 80s with its tagline of "I've fallen and I can't get up!" This company has a well-established reputation for high-quality service across decades in the medical alert systems market. But, their prices are much higher than other services, and you'll have to jump through a lot of hoops to find out what you'll pay.

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The 11 Best Medical Alert Systems

Who Has the Best Medical Alert Systems?

As the US population ages, the need for medical alert systems grows. Given the increasing number of seniors who prefer to "age in place" - living in their own home as long as possible, rather than moving to an independent or assisted living facility for the elderly - it is easy to see why a medical alert system could make the difference between life and death.

Medical alert systems give users the ability to rapidly contact emergency services, typically through a button worn on the wrist or as a pendant around the neck. All it takes is a click of that button to get in touch with an operator who will help determine if a call to emergency medical services is needed. For added peace of mind, a number of companies offer equipment that can automatically detect when the wearer has fallen.

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Medical Alert System FAQ

What is a medical alert system?

A medical alert system is often used by seniors who want to "age in place" rather than move to an independent/assisted living facility. Using a button on a pendant or wrist strap, they can let loved ones and/or emergency responders know that they need help due to a fall or medical situation.

What kinds of medical alert systems can I choose from?

Most systems on the market include a wearable panic button and round-the-clock remote monitoring. You can choose a plan that covers in-home use only or one that includes coverage when the wearer is out and about.

What are some extra features I should consider?

That depends on the person using the system and what kind of help they might need. Some medical alert systems include automatic fall detection, GPS tracking, and even smartwatch features like heart rate monitoring and tracking health goals.

How much do they cost?

Pricing varies, but you can anticipate monthly service fees ranging from $19.95 to $56.95 - the higher your coverage, the more you'll pay per month. You'll also need to factor in equipment costs: some service providers let you choose between buying it outright (lower monthly fees) and renting it (higher monthly fees).

Will Medicare/Medicaid pay for a medical alert system?

Unfortunately, you won't get coverage for a medical alert system through Original Medicare or Medicaid. But, if you have a supplemental insurance plan, you might be able to get a discount. Check with your carrier if this applies to you.

Is there a warranty?

The majority of medical alert systems come with a 30-day trial or money-back guarantee. However, with respect to the equipment, you'll want to read the fine print to understand your provider's terms if something goes wrong with your panic button or with any other devices down the line.

If I don't like the medical alert system, can I cancel the service?

Yes. Very few medical alert providers lock you into a long-term contract. Most often, you'll get a prorated refund for any prepaid months of coverage once you return rented equipment. Plus, you have that initial trial period of 15-30 days that's offered by most medical alert services.

How do I know if a medical alert service is trustworthy?

Your best bet is to see what other customers have to say. Look for reviews, preferably on third-party sites not affiliated with the provider. Another great resource is the Better Business Bureau: an "A+" rating and accreditation are good signs that you or your loved one will be well-protected by a particular medical alert service.

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There are a wide variety of choices when it comes to medical alert systems: some services that have been on the market for many years, and others that are newer to the industry. When shopping around for the right product for yourself or for a loved one, you may find a straightforward, easy-to-use website that clearly explains your options. On the other hand, some companies still rely on pushy sales tactics that won't give you much information unless you speak with a representative.

As you compare the various medical alert systems currently available, there are several aspects to keep in mind:

Cost. How much will you spend for equipment and monitoring fees?
Variety of Productsand Services. Can you get the coverage you need? Does the business offer upgrades like fall detection?
Cellular vs. Landline. If you or your loved one doesn't have a landline, can they still use the system? Or will you need to incur the extra expenses of installing a landline and paying for a phone plan?
Ordering Process. Can you easily shop the site and get what you need on your own terms, or will you have to work with a representative in order to start service?
Contracts. Will you have to sign a lengthy service contract for the medical alert system? Can you cancel the service if it doesn't meet your expectations or the user no longer needs it?
Reputation. What do other customers say about the company, the equipment, the service, and the attitude of company representatives? Does the business have a rating with the BBB?

TopConsumerReviews.com has reviewed and ranked the best medical alert systems on the market today. We hope these reviews give you the information you need to select the medical alert service that will give you or your loved one extra safety and peace of mind.