A medical alert system can help older parents stay independent while ensuring their safety. It gives them a way to quickly request help during falls and other incidents. This guide can help you find a system that is effective and affordable. 

Where Can You Find Affordable Alert Systems for Elderly Parents? 

Falls are the most common cause of injury for people 65 and older. Of the over 14 million older adults who fall every year, around 37% require medical treatment or at least one day of restricted activity. An alert system can help reduce this risk. 

These five companies have reliable medical alert systems that provide good value. Most offer fall detection as an optional upgrade. 

1. Medical Guardian

Medical Guardian is an industry leader known for integrating advanced technology into user-friendly devices. It delivers competitive value, and its reliable medical alert systems make it a top choice for comprehensive protection.

SystemKey features
MGHome Cellular
  • 1,400-foot protection range
  • 32-hour backup battery
  • 4G LTE Smarti voice assist technology
MGMini Lite
  • Ultra-lightweight at 0.7 oz
  • 36 hours of battery 
  • Wi-Fi and LTE location tracking
MGMove
  • Smartwatch design
  • Step tracking and weather app
  • Caregiver messaging via app

2. Bay Alarm Medical

Bay Alarm Medical offers transparent, affordable pricing and excellent customer service, making it ideal for families seeking protection without complex contracts or high fees.

SystemKey features
SOS Home
  • 1,000-foot range
  • Available in landline or cellular
  • 32-hour backup battery
SOS All-in-One 2
  • Lightweight, all-in-one mobile device
  • 4G-LTE cellular connection
  • GPS location tracking
SOS Smartwatch
  • Discreet watch design
  • Built-in two-way communication
  • Simple user interface

3. MobileHelp

MobileHelp specializes in bundled systems that offer comprehensive coverage for individuals and couples. It eliminates equipment and activation fees, making it an accessible provider. 

SystemKey features
Classic Cellular
  • In-home cellular system
  • 1,400-foot range
  • Waterproof help button
Solo
  • All-in-one mobile GPS device
  • Lightweight and portable
  • Uses AT&T cellular network
Mobile Duo
  • Includes two help buttons
  • Significant cost savings for two users
  • Full protection for a couple

4. LifeFone

LifeFone prioritizes customer satisfaction through consumer-friendly policies and low-cost fall detection devices. Its price-lock guarantee ensures stable monthly fees. 

SystemKey features
At-Home Cellular
  • 1,300-foot range
  • Lifetime price guarantee
  • Free spouse monitoring
VIPx®
  • Small, lightweight, and comfortable
  • 10-day battery 
  • Advanced location tracking with GPS and Wi-Fi
VIP Active®
  • Personalized care solutions
  • Water resistant
  • Five-day battery 

5. GetSafe

GetSafe is perfect for those who prefer not to wear a device. Its systems are embedded into the home and come with voice-activated wall buttons, ensuring help is within reach.  

SystemKey features
Starter
  • Base unit
  • Voice-activated wall button
  • Standard wall button
Standard
  • Base unit
  • Two voice-activated wall buttons
  • Standard wall button
  • Pull cord
Select
  • Base unit
  • Three voice-activated wall buttons
  • Two standard wall buttons
  • Pull cord

Methodology

The alert systems on this list were evaluated based on the following criteria: 

Affordability and valueTotal cost of ownership, long-term value, monthly monitoring fees, and equipment and activation costs
Core features 24/7 monitoring, fall detection, GPS location tracking, long battery life, and extensive system range 
Device versatilityDevices tailored to different locations and lifestyles 
Reliable performanceReliable battery life, in-home range, and network coverage
Customer-focused policiesTransparent pricing, contract-free solutions, trial periods, and consumer-friendly policies, like lifetime price locks and money-back guarantees 

Empower Your Older Loved One’s Independence

A medical alert system gives older parents the confidence to live independently and gives families peace of mind. Choose a device with your loved one. The best choice should cover the essentials and be easy for them to use.