Best Medical Alert Systems for Seniors With Hearing Loss, Tested and Reviewed
The best medical alert systems for seniors with hearing loss have loud speakers, visual alerts, and automatic fall detection.
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- Prices starting at $19.95 per month
- Free caregiver mobile app
- Unique features: At-home and on-the-go bundles
- Prices starting at $29.95 per month
- Free caregiver mobile app
- Unique features: High-tech equipment and features
- Prices starting at $24.99 per month
- Free caregiver mobile app
- Unique features: Phones with medical alert features
- Easy-to-use systems
- Lifetime warranty
- Seasonal promotions
Our team of senior tech and fall prevention experts tested and compared the best medical alert systems and narrowed down the list to our top picks for those with hearing loss.
Our team of senior tech and fall prevention experts tested and compared the best medical alert systems and narrowed down the list to our top picks for those with hearing loss.
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If you have hearing loss, it’s important to consider your hearing when choosing a medical alert system. Certain features and add-ons can help you get the most out of your system, including loud, adjustable speakers, fall detection, visual alerts, and highly trained operators.
My team of tech experts and I spent over 100 hours testing, researching, and comparing the best medical alert systems for hearing loss and narrowed down the list to our top picks. We evaluated each system for important factors like affordability, features for hearing loss, and fall detection. Below, we’ll dive into the systems that made the cut, and offer some tips to help you choose the right system for your needs.
The Best Medical Alert Systems for Older Adults With Hearing Loss
Our Methodology
How We Tested the Medical Alert Systems
Our team of medical alert and senior tech experts evaluated each system for a week. We used important factors like price, ease of use, features, speaker quality, nonverbal cues and features, and operator training. Before finalizing our top choices, we consulted with Linda Schlenker, an occupational therapist with over three decades of experience finding medical alert solutions for seniors with hearing loss. We also recruited older adults (like my grandma) to help test out the systems whenever possible.
How We Chose the Best Medical Alert Systems for Those With Hearing Loss
To make it on our list, a provider had to excel in the following areas:
- Pricing: Medical alert protection shouldn’t break the bank. We’ve included systems that will fit most budgets, ranging from low-cost, wallet-friendly systems to top-tier systems that offer excellent value. Every provider on our list offers plans starting at $33 or less. We evaluated monthly costs, equipment fees, extra fees, seasonal promotions, and other ways to save.
- Features for hearing loss: Every system on our list had to offer useful features for those with hearing loss. These features include things like loud or adjustable speakers, visual alerts, and nonverbal protocol.
- Fall detection: Hearing loss can increase your chances of experiencing a fall. For this reason, every provider on our list offers at least one system with automatic fall detection. We tested out this feature by simulating 10 falls and recording average response times.
- Ease of use: Hearing loss can make everyday tasks more challenging, especially for seniors who may be experiencing cognitive decline or difficulty with fine motor skills. Medical alert systems should be easy to use, regardless of hearing loss level. For this reason, we spent hours testing out each model to ensure users could get help with ease.
- Response times: We made 10 test calls to each provider’s emergency response center and recorded average response times for each. All the systems on our list had average response times of under a minute.
- Operator training: To truly benefit seniors with hearing loss, emergency response agents need to be trained to effectively communicate with user’s with a hearing loss. Many systems have medical alert operators with useful information related to the user’s medical history and hearing level. This can help them use their training to communicate via nonverbal cues, be patient and evaluate the situation when verbal communication is not possible, and send help when needed.
To learn more about how we test medical alert systems, check out our medical alert system methodology guide.
Why Trust Us
SeniorLiving.org’s senior tech experts have tested dozens of medical alert systems from the industry’s top providers. We’re always trying out and evaluating the newest tech for older adults. All of our medical alert content is reviewed by Linda Schlenker, an occupational therapist with more than three decades of experience advising older adults and their caregivers about how to stay safe while aging in place. She and her patients have years of experience with medical alert systems. Linda approved all of the systems on our list and provided her insights and expertise.
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1. Bay Alarm Medical - Best Value
What we like most
- Prices starting at $19.95 per month
- Free caregiver mobile app
- Unique features: At-home and on-the-go bundles
Bay Alarm MedicalOverview:Overview
Bay Alarm Medical’s in-home and on-the-go systems are simple, affordable, and offer great value, starting at $24.95 per month. Whether you want a smartwatch system, mobile unit to wear on the go, or an in-home unit, Bay Alarm has an inexpensive option for your needs. The company runs seasonal promotions throughout the year that offer discounts on monthly service and equipment fees, so be on the lookout!
Current Deal: New customers can get 20 percent off select plans with Bay Alarm Medical, plus a free month of service and free shipping.
My Bay Alarm Medical package came with Vial of Life, a card that lists important medical information for emergencies. I filled it out with my complete medical information, like allergies or hearing loss, so that it was available in my home for emergency personnel. Then, I placed it on my fridge so it was clearly displayed and easy to find. This is a crucial accessory for deaf seniors who may struggle to communicate with first responders.
I could also fill out my emergency plan, including information for accessing my residence and emergency contacts, in the company’s mobile app. This ensured that response agents knew all of the pertinent information whenever I called. Many providers, including Medical Guardian and Lively, offer a feature like this. I highly recommend filling it out as soon as you get your system. For many seniors, this is an absolutely essential feature.
Pros & Cons:Pros About Bay Alarm Medical
- Inexpensive systems
- Vial of Life included for free
- Price-lock guarantee
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- Easy installation
- No long-term contracts
- Bundles available
Cons About Bay Alarm Medical
- Limited product lineup
- Equipment fees for some systems
Our Hands-on Experience:Speaker Quality
I tested out the speakers on the SOS Home and SOS Micro systems, and I was happy with the volume. That said, the response agent’s voice sounded a little muffled coming through the thin plastic exterior of the SOS Home’s base unit. Fortunately, the response agent could always hear and understand me just fine. Additionally, I liked that both the landline and cellular units have a “status” light that stays green as long as you have a good signal. This lets you know that your system is working — even if you’re struggling to hear the audible system updates.
Similar to Medical Guardian’s MGMini Lite, Bay Alarm’s SOS Micro system doesn’t let you adjust the speaker volume. I was disappointed to see this same missing feature with many of the industry’s best GPS medical alert systems. Still, the SOS Micro’s speaker was loud, and I could clearly hear the response agent.
Response Times
While testing for speaker quality, I also timed how quickly I could get a Bay Alarm Medical response agent on the line. When I pressed the help button on my SOS Micro unit, I heard a beep and an automated voice let me know a call was being made. The system’s help button turned solid blue to indicate a call was in place — I appreciated this nonverbal queue.
» Our Full Review:Bay Alarm Medical alert system review 2024
On average, it took about 20 seconds from the moment I pressed the help button until I heard the agent’s voice. For comparison, this was five seconds slower than Medical Guardian’s average response times, but it was still very fast.
Pricing
Bay Alarm Medical’s prices range from $24.95 to $44.95 per month, plus equipment fees for certain systems. That’s on the affordable side when compared to Medical Guardian or Lively. You can also save money by bundling systems together, with costs starting at $54.95. For instance, if you want an in-home system and a mobile unit, a bundle would help you save a ton compared to purchasing the two systems separately. Fall detection costs an extra $10 with any system, which is pretty standard for the industry.
Expert InsightsFrom Linda Schlenker, M.S., M.A., O.T.RI love Bay Alarm Medical’s affordability. A medical alert system is a necessity, so it’s important to keep the price where people can afford it. -
2. Medical Guardian - Best customer service
What we like most
- Prices starting at $29.95 per month
- Free caregiver mobile app
- Unique features: High-tech equipment and features
Medical GuardianOverview:Overview
Medical Guardian has a diverse product lineup and competitive pricing for at-home and on-the-go systems. I’ve tested all of Medical Guardian’s systems, and I’m a big fan of their response team. All five Medical Guardian systems are supported by skilled operators in U.S.-based monitoring centers. When I pressed my medical alert button, I was always connected to an operator who was trained to speak loudly and clearly. The operator will also know your medical information, including your hearing loss or deafness, when you call. Every operator I spoke with addressed me by name and was friendly and efficient.
Did You Know? Twenty-two percent of Americans aged 65 to 74 have disabling hearing loss.
I also like that Medical Guardian throws in a free lockbox when you choose an annual payment plan. In an emergency, the operator can give first responders the code to retrieve your key. That way, if you can’t hear them knocking, they won’t need to break down your door to get inside and help you.
Expert InsightsFrom Linda Schlenker, M.S., M.A., O.T.RIt’s great that Medical Guardian has visual cues, which is so important for people with hearing loss. The free lockbox is also helpful. I have worked with many older adults who required emergency responders to kick down their door, which is the last thing one wants to have to deal with while on their way to the hospital!Before purchasing, consider your lifestyle and level of hearing loss. Seniors with severe hearing loss may benefit the most from the MGHome Cellular. This in-home system’s base unit lights up when an emergency call is placed, and you can adjust the volume on the two-way speaker. My grandma and I tried out this system, and we both commented on how loud the base unit’s speaker was, perfect for those with hearing loss.
» You Might Like: Best hearing aids for severe hearing loss
Pros & Cons:Pros About Medical Guardian
- Adjustable volume control
- Free lockbox with annual plans
- Landline and cellular options
- Lifetime warranty
- No hidden fees or long-term contracts
- Varied product lineup
- Free spousal monitoring with select systems
- Fall detection available
- Discounts with annual payment plans
Cons About Medical Guardian
- Pricey Pricey premium systems systems
- Equipment fees with some systems
Our Hands-on Experience:Speaker Quality
I tested out the speaker volume on several Medical Guardian systems, including the MGMini Lite. This system combines the comfort of a watch-style device with the simplicity of a standard call button. It doesn’t have any bells and whistles — just a help button and two-way speaker. This is perfect for those who want to keep things simple.
After holding the alert button, I was connected with a Medical Guardian response agent who asked if I needed help right away. The volume was very loud and clear, even when I held the device at arm’s length. I also tested how well the agent could hear me at different volumes. The two-way speaker was very adept at picking up my voice, even when I spoke quietly.
» Further Reading: Best Medical Alert Bracelets
The only downside I noticed is that the MGMini Lite doesn’t have a way to control the volume. If you want this feature, you’ll either need to choose an at-home unit like the MGHome Cellular or a more expensive package like the MGMove.
My grandma and I tested the MGHome Cellular system together, and we were very impressed with the base unit’s two-way speaker. My grandma could clearly hear the operator across the room, even when she wasn’t wearing her hearing aids.
Medical Guardian’s systems all offer some sort of nonverbal queue to let you know a call is being placed. For instance, the MGMove smartwatch screen displays a countdown when you press your help button, while the buttons on the MGHome Cellular base unit light up when you place a call. I appreciate this for those who might not hear the call ringing.
Expert InsightsFrom Linda Schlenker, M.S., M.A., O.T.RI frequently hear from my clients that Medical Guardian has exceptional customer service. No high pressure sales, very friendly, and very helpful.Response Times
Medical Guardian offers fast response times. My calls were answered in an average of 15 seconds when testing MGHome Cellular, MGMini, and MGMove. I experienced similar response times with Lively’s Mobile2 medical alert system.
I will say, I had a slower experience with the MGMini Lite. After holding the alert button on the device (which lights up blue so you know that it’s connecting to a response agent), it took about one minute to connect to an operator. While this is still pretty fast, it’s much slower than the average response times for the other systems on our list. MGMini Lite runs on a cellular connection, and I realized the cell reception at my house isn’t the strongest. That was likely the reason for the slow times. I’d recommend checking your cell reception at home before purchasing a cellular system to make sure it’s strong and reliable.
» Our Full Review: Medical Guardian review 2024
Pricing
Monthly costs for Medical Guardian’s systems range from $32.95 to $44.95, plus $10 per month to add fall detection. There are also one-time equipment fees with select systems. I’m not a fan of these extra fees, but they’re common with other top providers like Bay Alarm Medical. When compared to monthly rates for Lively’s phones and medical alert systems, Medical Guardian’s standard monthly premiums are pretty affordable.
Current Deal: Medical Guardian is offering 50 percent off select products, as well as a free lockbox, free month of service, and free shipping.
You could also save a few bucks per month by paying annually or quarterly instead of monthly. Medical Guardian will give you a prorated refund for unused months of service if you cancel before your payment period is up. They don’t charge any cancellation fees either, so I’d recommend going with an annual plan if it works for your budget. Annual plans also come with perks like a free lockbox.
» Pricing Guide: Medical Guardian prices and deals
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3. Lively - Best hearing aid compatibility
What we like most
- Prices starting at $24.99 per month
- Free caregiver mobile app
- Unique features: Phones with medical alert features
LivelyOverview:Overview
Lively made our list for its senior-friendly phones with built-in medical alert technology. With Lively’s phones, you get a phone and medical alert device in one — no need to carry two separate devices! Plus, the Jitterbug Flip2 and Jitterbug Smart4 are both compatible with hearing aids. The Jitterbug Flip2 has an M4/T4 compatibility rating, the best possible rating, while the Jitterbug Smart4 has an M3/T4 rating.
» Our Full Review: Lively medical alert system review
I could also adjust the phone’s volume from low to high and turn on speakerphone mode with the press of a button. I found both phones’ speakers to be loud and high quality when I made calls. These features can make communicating with an Urgent Response agent easier, especially if you have hearing loss.
» Also Check Out: Jitterbug Flip2 phone review 2024
Both phones have a red Urgent Response button that acts like the alert or help button you’d find on a traditional medical alert system. Plus, Lively offers a standalone medical alert device, the Lively Mobile2, as well as medical alert plans that work with iPhones, Apple Watches, and Alexa-enabled devices. I love that Lively offers a variety of ways to access its medical alert services on different devices so you can choose the option that’s best for your lifestyle.
Pros & Cons:Pros About Lively
- Senior-friendly phones with built-in medical alert features
- Jitterbug phones are compatible with hearing aids
- Affordable plans
- Discounts for AARP members
- No long-term contracts
- GPS monitoring
- U.S.-based monitoring centers
- No cancellation fees
- One-year equipment warranty
Cons About Lively
- No landline systems
- Fall detection not available with phones
- High equipment fees
Our Hands-on Experience:Speaker Quality
Both the Jitterbug Flip2 and Jitterbug Smart4 have loud speakers and adjustable volume. And, since they're compatible with most hearing aids, you won’t have to rely on the speakers alone. My grandma made a call to her daughter on the Jitterbug Smart4, and she had no trouble hearing the conversation. The volume was easy to adjust with large buttons on the side of the phone. I had the same experience when I made a test call to Lively’s Urgent Response team and had no issues hearing the agent I spoke with.
The speaker clarity is just as good on the Lively Mobile2. I found that the volume level was perfect for me — it wasn’t too loud or too quiet. I do wish you could adjust the volume on this mobile unit, but, as I’ve mentioned, mobile systems don’t typically come with this option.
Response Times
My grandma and I tested out the response times on both Jitterbug phones and the Lively Mobile2. Calling for help was easy on each device. On the Jitterbug phones, we pressed the red Urgent Response button on each phone. For the Lively Mobile2, we pressed the unit’s black help button. We recorded average response times of just 10 seconds on the Lively Mobile2 and 20 seconds on the Jitterbug phones. This puts Lively on par with Bay Alarm Medical and Medical Guardian’s response times.
Pricing
While both Jitterbug phones are equipped with Urgent Response buttons, you’ll need to pair your phone with a higher-tier Lively plan to use them. The Jitterbug Flip2 costs $79.99, while the Jitterbug Smart4 costs $119.99. To turn either phone into a medical alert device, you’ll need to add the Preferred or Premium Lively phone plan, starting at $39.99 and $49.99, respectively. You’ll also need to add a data package with the Jitterbug Smart4, which ranges from $5 to $30 per month.
» Pricing Guide: Lively medical alert system cost and pricing
These prices may not be as affordable as Bay Alarm Medical or LifeFone, but remember that you’re getting a phone and a medical alert system in one package. Lively offers some unique features that may be worth the cost; these include a care advocate to help you meet your health goals and on-call nurses available to answer any medical questions. Lively Link is one of my favorite features. This is a mobile app that lets you track your Jitterbug phone, receive alerts when an emergency call is placed, and view the device’s status. Lively Link is excellent for caregivers and family members who want an easy way to check in on their loved one.
If you don’t need a phone or don’t want to combine your phone and medical alert system, you can opt for the Lively Mobile2. This on-the-go medical alert device costs $79.99, and you can choose between the Basic plan ($24.99 per month) and Premium plan ($34.99 per month). If you want to save on the cost of the device, you can also use these plans with an iPhone, Apple Watch, or Alexa-enabled device. Using an iPhone or a Lively phone is a good way to ensure that your medical alert device is compatible with most hearing aids.
Expert InsightsFrom Linda Schlenker, M.S., M.A., O.T.RLively being compatible with hearing aids is so helpful! It is also terrific that they have U.S.-based monitoring. Many monitoring centers outside of the U.S. have agents who speak with thick accents, making it more difficult for someone with hearing loss to understand. -
4. LifeFone - Most affordable fall detection
What we like most
- Easy-to-use systems
- Lifetime warranty
- Seasonal promotions
LifeFoneOverview:Overview
Did you know research shows that hearing loss can increase your risk of falling?1 This is one of the major reasons I recommend automatic fall detection for those with hearing loss. This feature can detect the motion of a fall and call for help, even if you can’t press your help button. Fall detection can be pricey for those on a budget, so I was impressed with LifeFone’s affordable fall detection. At just $5 per month, it’s one of the lowest rates for fall detection in the industry — and half the price of fall detection from Medical Guardian or Bay Alarm Medical.
» Related Reading: Best medical alert systems with fall detection for seniors
I’d recommend LifeFone’s At-Home & On-the-Go, VIP Active system for older adults with hearing loss. It has a built-in two-way speaker for communicating with the emergency operator. You can hold the speaker right up to your ear if you’re struggling to hear the operator. If you’re a homebody, the At-Home Cellular unit is a good option, too. It has an ultra-sensitive microphone and adjustable volume control. It lights up when an emergency call is made, so you’ll know a call is being placed even if you can’t hear it.
Pros & Cons:Pros About LifeFone
- Inexpensive fall detection
- Pendant with two-way speakerphone
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- Free spouse monitoring
- Large in-home coverage range
- Lifetime price guarantee
- Caregiver mobile app
- Client information visible to operators when they answer a call
- Lockbox available
Cons About LifeFone
- No language support
- Potentially pricey add-ons and accessories
Our Hands-on Experience:Speaker Quality
I tested the speakers out on the At-Home base station, along with the On-the-Go, At-Home and On-the-Go, VIP flex system, and each delivered excellent results. The volume was loud, crisp, and clear, and the response agent on the other end never had any issues hearing us. A few of LifeStation’s on-the-go systems, like the VIP Active, have adjustable volume buttons. This is pretty unique, as most of the other mobile systems on this list don’t allow you to change the volume.
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Response Times
Like Medical Guardian and Lively, LifeFone offers excellent customer service and fast response times. After testing several of LifeFone’s systems, I recorded average response times of 20 seconds. This is the same response time we experienced with Lively’s Jitterbug phones and Bay Alarm Medical’s systems.
» Our Full Review: LifeFone medical alert system review 2024
Pricing
LifeFone’s prices range from $29.95 to $49.95 per month. These starting prices are a little higher than other providers on our list like Medical Guardian and Bay Alarm Medical. However, you can save by choosing an annual or quarterly payment plan, which brings down the price significantly. Plus, the $5 monthly cost for fall detection is quite affordable. Another major benefit of LifeFone is that they don’t charge any equipment or activation fees. When you compare LifeFone’s prices to those offered by Lively (considering the hefty equipment fees), you’ll see that you can avoid a lot of upfront costs with LifeFone.
Expert InsightsFrom Linda Schlenker, M.S., M.A., O.T.RFall detection is absolutely critical, so it’s wonderful that LifeFone makes the feature affordable. It’s a double bonus that the company offers a price-lock guarantee so there are no surprises with the bill in years to come.One other drawback to note: LifeFone’s companion mobile app for caregivers costs an extra $8 per month. I wasn’t stoked about this, as other providers like Bay Alarm Medical and Medical Guardian offer access to their mobile apps at no additional cost. Still, if you find a LifeFone system that fits your needs and want affordable fall detection, the company might be worth it.
» You Might Like: Best affordable medical alert systems
Best Medical Alert Features for Seniors With Hearing Loss
Having a medical alert system in your home is always a good idea for older adults. However, if you are deaf or living with hearing loss, it’s extra important to choose a system that meets your hearing needs. Here are a few key features to consider.
Visual Alerts
Most medical alert systems make a noise when an alert is activated. At the very least, the voice of the monitoring center operator will sound over a two-way speakerphone. If you have hearing loss, though, it’s helpful to find a system that uses visual or haptic alerts, too. This might be a button on the base unit that lights up or a pendant that vibrates. When you see or feel that alert, you’ll know that a call was placed successfully.
Did You Know? Older adults with Alzhiemer’s or dementia are at least twice as likely to experience a fall. Check out our guide on the best medical alert systems for seniors with dementia to learn more.
Fall Detection
Falls are already the leading cause of injuries for seniors in the U.S. Research suggests that even mild hearing loss increases your risk of falling. If you are concerned about falling, or already have a history of falling, look for a medical alert system with fall detection. Also, consider the price of add-on fall detection when comparing medical alert system prices.
Watch the video below to learn more about the relationship between falls and hearing loss.
Trained Operators
Make sure the company you choose has a monitoring center with trained professionals who are accustomed to working with seniors with hearing loss. These professionals will know to speak clearly and loudly on the phone. You’ll also want to ask if they keep the subscriber’s medical conditions and medical history on file. That way, as soon as you call, they’ll know that you are deaf or have hearing loss and will take the steps to get you help, even if you can’t speak to or hear them.
Volume Control
Changing the volume on your TV or phone is second nature, so it’s easy to assume every audible device would offer the same feature. That’s not always the case with medical alert systems. For example, Medical Alert’s base unit doesn’t have volume control. Before purchasing, make sure the system you’re interested in offers adjustable volume control — or at least a pendant with a speaker that you can hold up to your ear.
Accessories
Certain accessories, like lockboxes and medical alert ID bracelets, can make your medical alert system work better for you. If you’re deaf, you may not hear emergency personnel arrive. They may then have to break down the door, causing unnecessary property damage. If you have a lockbox on your front door, though, your operator can give emergency personnel the code to retrieve a key. Medical alert bracelets, meanwhile, can let first responders know that you are deaf or have hearing loss, as well as show them your name and other useful information.
Do Hearing Aids Work With Medical Alert Systems?
Nowadays, it’s common for hearing aids to connect directly to televisions, tablets, and cell phones. Unfortunately, hearing aids don’t connect directly to most medical alert systems. The biggest exception is Lively’s Jitterbug phones, which are hearing aid compatible. Whichever medical alert system you choose, though, your hearing aids will still boost your hearing as you speak with the operator through your system’s base unit or pendant speakerphone.
FYI: Almost half of all U.S. veterans are 65 or older. If you or a loved one have served in the armed forces, you’ll want to check out our guide on the best medical alert systems for veterans.
Some hearing aids actually come with some of the same features as a medical alert system. The Evolv AI hearing aids from Starkey double as fall detection devices. If you fall while wearing them, the connected app will notify three contacts of the fall and your GPS location. That way, someone can give you a call, come over to help you, and/or contact emergency services on your behalf.
FAQs
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What is the most vital alert for users with hearing loss?
Visual and haptic alerts are commonly used to notify users with hearing loss about smoke, carbon monoxide, doorbells, and potential break-ins. These can work very well in tandem with medical alert devices to ensure that seniors with hearing loss and emergency responders stay informed.
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What is a deaf alerter system?
A deaf alerter system is a type of fire alarm that sends a notification to connected devices within a building if and when a fire alarm is triggered. This is very different from a medical alert system, which sends an alert to a 24/7 monitoring center if a user experiences a fall or similar emergency.
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Does Life Alert have medical alert systems for hearing loss?
Yes, Life Alert does offer medical alert systems with loud speakers and other features for users. You can learn more in our most recent review of Life Alert.
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What’s the cheapest medical alert system for hearing impaired users?
Bay Alarm Medical currently offers the most affordable medical alert systems for hearing loss. However, if you plan to add fall detection and don’t mind paying for a year of service in advance, you could save more with LifeFone.