1. Medical alert systems (also referred to as personal emergency response systems) make it easier to reach help when experiencing an accident or health condition. These devices feature buttons that call for help and come in pendants, watches, or bracelets that blend seamlessly into everyday wear.
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3. Monitored medical alert systems connect users with a 24-hour call center which offers assistance around the clock. Following specific protocols, this center will inform local 911 services or emergency caregivers first in case an alarm goes off.
4. Cost
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6. Medical alert systems vary in cost depending on their brand and features included, with additional charges such as one-time equipment payments and monthly monitoring charges from most companies being added on top. It's important to factor in these additional fees in your budget since recurring monthly monitoring charges can add up quickly.
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8. Most of the seven brands reviewed require one-time device fees between $0 and $200. They also charge monthly monitoring fees that typically range between $35 to $100; monitored systems connect wearers with a call center 24/7 and make available services 24/7 for use.
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10. Medical alert systems typically provide additional services, including automatic fall detection, activity tracking and medication reminders that can be added onto their base monthly monitoring fee for an additional cost. Some companies even allow users to link a PIN-protected lockbox that holds medication and emergency supplies - at a fee. Some senior citizens qualify for discounts or can use funds from flexible spending accounts (FSA) or health savings accounts (HSA) accounts to cover this expense.
11. Features
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13. Medical alert systems come in all shapes and sizes, but all have three essential features in common: an emergency button that users can press in case of an emergency situation; two-way communication with response center personnel; and 24/7 monitoring services. Some options require monthly fees while others include them as part of the upfront device price; some systems also feature features like fall detection, activity tracking, medication reminders, GPS tracking.
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15. Monitored systems link to a call center staffed with professionals, who speak directly with you through your wearable device or base station and listen to what emergency contacts or 911 assistance may be required in accordance with your individual needs. If necessary, these professionals will dispatch emergency assistance as necessary - be that in form of dispatching emergency contacts or 911.
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17. Most medical alert systems feature waterproof devices designed for bath and shower use. Some also offer GPS tracking so the response center can quickly pinpoint where they need to send help if necessary. As many services require contracts for their services, it's essential that you understand exactly how long you will be locked into this agreement before making your choice.
18. Warranty
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20. Many medical alert companies provide warranties that protect devices against damage or theft for a set period of time, with some even offering extended coverage plans at additional fees.
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22. gps tracker for elderly people Most medical alert systems include both a base unit that plugs into your home and a wearable button. Some brands also offer mobile medical alert devices that connect via cellular networks so users can call for help wherever there is coverage.
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24. Some systems also include additional features, such as fall detection for those prone to falls, medication reminders or daily movement monitors and water-resistant help buttons designed for use in the shower.
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26. Some private insurance and Medicare Advantage plans may cover medical alert systems if deemed medically necessary by a doctor. To learn more, talk with your health care provider or check with the local agency on aging to see what programs may be available near you.
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28. Mobility
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30. Medical alert systems can either be monitored or unmonitored and fall under either at-home or mobile categories. Depending on their brand, these devices can connect to response centers via landline phone lines or cellular networks and most at-home systems consist of a base station with speakerphone capabilities as well as wearable help buttons for added protection.
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32. A call button connects users with a professionally staffed monitoring center and allows them to request help when needed, whether that be neighbor visits, 911 emergency responses or something less urgent. Many systems also include GPS tracking capabilities which allow caregivers to locate individuals if they wander off-track outside their homes and become disoriented.
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34. Most brands require both an initial device fee and monthly monitoring subscription costs; MobileHelp stands out by keeping upfront costs to a minimum by not charging any extra fees (one of only seven we evaluated who did this) as well as offering free ground shipping on several plans.
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