Best Cellular Medical Alert Systems
Bay Alarm Medical is our top pick for medical alert systems without a landline due to its affordable prices and useful features.
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- Cellular systems starting at $29.95 per month
- 1,000-foot button-to-base range
- At-home and on-the-go cellular systems
- Cellular prices starting at $29.95 per month
- 1,400-foot button-to-base range
- At-home and on-the-go cellular systems
- Cellular systems starting at $34.95 per month
- 1,300-foot button-to-base range
- At-home and on-the-go cellular systems
- One free month of service for veterans
- Prices starting at $39.99 per month
- Unique features: Activity and caregiver monitoring
- Detailed activity monitoring
- Simple, no-frills systems
- No equipment fees
Our team of senior tech and fall-prevention experts tested the top medical alert systems in the industry to find the best medical alert systems without a landline.
Our team of senior tech and fall-prevention experts tested the top medical alert systems in the industry to find the best medical alert systems without a landline.
Learn MoreContents
If you’re one of the many older adults who have ditched their landline connection in favor of a cellular option, you may be wondering if you can still use an in-home medical alert system. Well, good news: You can! In-home cellular medical alert systems keep you just as safe and independent as landline systems do.
Our team of tech experts has researched and tested the industry’s best medical alert systems. For this guide, we pared down the list to the top cellular medical alert systems that work without a landline. We also consulted with occupational therapist Linda Schlenker, a home health expert with 30 years of experience advising seniors and their caregivers about medical alert systems. All the systems on our list rank well for average response times, equipment durability, customer service, and overall value. Our top pick is Bay Alarm Medical for its competitive pricing and excellent features, such as free spouse monitoring. Keep reading to get the details you need to find the right system for yourself or a loved one.
Testing out Medical Guardian's MGHome Cellular system
Our Top 5 Providers for Cellular Medical Alert Systems
Our Methodology
Taylor testing out one of Medical Guardian’s alert systems
How We Tested the Medical Alert Systems
My team and I spent over 200 hours testing the industry’s best cellular medical alert systems. We ordered each system and used it for a week, taking notes on everything from system features to average response times. We also recruited medical alert experts and older adults (including my grandma!) whenever possible to get a better understanding of how the systems impact their target users.
How We Chose the Best Cellular Medical Alert Systems
Here are some of the most important criteria our team looked for when selecting a system.
- Price: About 40 percent of American seniors live on Social Security alone,1 so we understand older adults need medical alert systems at a good price. We tested many cellular systems and included only those that are a good value for seniors on a fixed income. All the systems on our list cost less than $40 per month, though additional fees may apply depending on the provider. We evaluated monthly fees, equipment costs, and any hidden fees, along with seasonal promotions and other ways to save.
- Cellular carrier compatibility: Cellular medical alert systems require mobile service coverage to function. Just like a cell signal is required to reach 911 from your cell, cellular medical alert systems need the same signal to reach a 24/7 monitoring center. All the systems on our list are compatible with one or more of the largest cellular service carriers, including popular nationwide carriers such as AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile. We assessed each system’s coverage quality and consistency by making 10 test calls in various areas of a 1,400-square-foot, two-story home. We also tested mobile systems on walks and while traveling.
- Response times: This is one of the most important aspects of a medical alert system. The industry standard is somewhere between 15 and 45 seconds, but every second counts in an emergency. We tested the response times and included only cellular systems that could meet or exceed the response times of their competitors.
- Equipment durability: Buying a cheap pendant may save you a few bucks now, but you may have to replace it frequently if it’s not made of durable materials. We tested the durability of each system to ensure that it could withstand falls, as well as regular wear and tear.
- Features: Every medical alert system should connect the user with an emergency-response agent quickly, but extra features can make a cellular system even more useful. Some great features we looked for include fall detection, mobile apps for caregivers, and spouse monitoring.
- Customer service: All the cellular medical alert systems on this list offer stellar service during an emergency, but it’s also important to consider their regular customer-support team. From getting the system set up to asking questions about pricing, we reached out to each provider’s tech and support teams to evaluate the quality of service.
Pro Tip: To learn more about how we test medical alert systems, check out our medical alert system methodology guide!
Why Trust Us
Our team of senior tech experts has tested dozens of medical alert systems from the industry’s leading providers. We’re always evaluating and trying out the newest tech to keep older adults safe. Our medical alert content is also reviewed by Linda Schlenker, an occupational therapist with over three decades of experience advising older adults and their caregivers on how to stay safe while aging in place. Schlenker and her patients have extensive experience with medical alert systems, and she approved all the systems on our list and provided her insights and expertise to our guide.
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1. Bay Alarm Medical - Most Affordable
What we like most
- Cellular systems starting at $29.95 per month
- 1,000-foot button-to-base range
- At-home and on-the-go cellular systems
Bay Alarm MedicalOverview:
Testing out Bay Alarm Medical's SOS Home system
Overview
I’ve tested and reviewed Bay Alarm Medical systems several times, and they never fail to impress. The in-home cellular unit has a 32-hour backup battery, a 1,000-foot button-to-base range (perfect for large houses), and optional fall detection. The in-home cellular system costs $29.95 per month and does not have an equipment fee, which I appreciate. Even better, there’s no additional monthly fee to add a spouse or roommate to your plan. You’ll just need to purchase an extra wearable help button for a one-time fee of $39.
» Learn More: Bay Alarm Medical vs. Medical Guardian
I found the in-home system doesn’t offer a lot of high-tech features, and it’s a bit of an eyesore. It’s still worth it, though, if you prefer to keep things simple and affordable. If looks are a concern, Bay Alarm Medical also offers sleek on-the-go systems. The company’s 30-day risk-free trial also makes it easy to test the system to ensure it’s right for you. Bay Alarm Medical is accessible to seniors across the country, as its cellular systems are compatible with AT&T and Verizon — two of the largest cellular service carriers in the nation — as well as less common VoIP services.
Pros & Cons:Pros About Bay Alarm Medical
- Affordable prices
- No activation fees
- No equipment fees on in-home systems
- Manufacturing and monitoring in the U.S.
- No long-term contracts
- Free spouse monitoring
- 30-day risk-free trial
- Landline or cellular in-home options
Cons About Bay Alarm Medical
- Fewer high-tech features
- High equipment fees for mobile devices
- Mobile app is incompatible with in-home system
Our Hand-On Testing:Response Times
Bay Alarm Medical claims you can get in contact with an emergency-response agent in 45 seconds or less. I’m excited to report that my experience surpassed those expectations. I ran emergency tests with the SOS Home, SOS Smartwatch, and SOS Micro systems, and I recorded average response times of around 10 to 20 seconds. Each agent I spoke with was helpful and patient. I noticed that there was no significant difference in response time for each device. That means you can get the same quality speed and support regardless of the device you choose.
Trying out Medical Guardian's MGMini Lite
Customer Service
I was satisfied with my experience contacting Bay Alarm Medical. You can reach the company’s customer service team via phone or email. I was able to ask about basic billing information and account settings through the mobile app.
Contacting Bay Alarm Mobile in the mobile app
The app also comes packed with features for families and caregivers. You can view the device status and location, ring a lost device, and see an emergency call log. I really appreciate those features, which help loved ones stay in the loop.
Navigating Bay Alarm Medical's companion mobile app
When I spoke with a customer service representative on the phone, I waited about five minutes. The agent I spoke with was very friendly and helpful. It took one business day to get a response by email, but that is pretty standard for larger providers. It would have been nice to have some kind of live support chat on the app or the company’s website, especially for when you just need a quick fix to a technical issue.
Pricing
Bay Alarm Medical’s prices are some of the lowest in the industry. The SOS Home Cellular starts at just $29.95 ($39.95 with fall detection) and there’s no equipment fee. Some providers, such as Medical Guardian, charge equipment fees, so this is a great way to save.
Expert InsightsFrom Linda Schlenker, M.S., M.A., O.T.R,It’s wonderful that there are affordable options for seniors. With inflation so high, it’s important that seniors don’t have to forgo safety because they are on a fixed income. Bay Alarm Medical’s option for a spouse to be able to get a device at no extra cost and LifeFone having a price lock are great features.Bay Alarm Medical offers three mobile systems to choose from, with prices ranging from $29.95 to $39.95 per month and equipment fees ranging from $99 to $179. You can also add fall detection to any system for $10 per month. For active seniors who want to track their daily activity, the SOS Smartwatch is a great option. The systems may cost a bit more than the in-home packages, but they’re a great fit if you want protection outside the home.
Testing out Bay Alarm Medical's SOS Smartwatch
I love that Bay Alarm Medical has packages that meet a wide range of needs. My grandma, for example, is quite the busy bee. She spends a lot of time at home, but she’s very active and leaves the house several times a week. She liked using the SOS Smartwatch and the SOS Micro for on-the-go protection. She preferred the smartwatch, however, since it felt more natural to wear. It also comes with additional features, such as daily goal setting and step tracking.
» For Tech-Savvy Seniors: Best Medical Alert Watches of 2024
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2. Medical Guardian - Most Customizable
What we like most
- Cellular prices starting at $29.95 per month
- 1,400-foot button-to-base range
- At-home and on-the-go cellular systems
Medical GuardianOverview:
My grandma testing out Medical Guardian's MGHome Cellular system
Overview
Medical Guardian offers a wide variety of systems, which is why it earned a spot on our list. There are five systems to choose from, plus add-ons such as fall detection, wall-mounted help buttons, and enhanced emergency notifications. Those features cost extra, so you’ll want to assess your budget before purchasing.
Expert InsightsFrom Linda Schlenker, M.S., M.A., O.T.R,I love that most medical alert systems, including Medical Guardian, do not require long-term contracts. Many older adults’ living situations change, and they may not need a medical alert system forever. They may choose to move in with family or into an assisted living community that offers its own medical alert system.MGHome Cellular, Medical Guardian’s home system that doesn’t require a landline, is one of my favorite cellular systems. It’s sleeker than Bay Alarm’s cellular in-home system, and it has an extensive coverage range of 1,400 feet. That’s about the distance of four football fields! Whether you call for help in the kitchen or an upstairs bedroom on the other side of the house, you’ll be covered. My grandma and I had no problem reaching the Medical Guardian team throughout her home. Just make sure you live in an area with good AT&T coverage, because the cellular in-home system uses AT&T’s service.
If you want a cellular device for on-the-go use, Medical Guardian has three options: a pendant-style mobile device, a medical alert smartwatch (similar to Bay Alarm’s watch), and a wrist-worn system. I’ve tested all three devices myself, and I love the variety they offer. MGMove, the smartwatch system, is probably my favorite. It’s discreet, and it gave me some extra motivation to stay active with step tracking and goal setting!
Testing out Medical Guardian's MGMove
Pros & Cons:Pros About Medical Guardian
- No long-term contracts
- Customizable systems
- Easy installation
- Free activation
- U.S.-based monitoring
- Versatile product lineup
Cons About Medical Guardian
- Only compatible with AT&T’s cellular network
- No trial period
- Potentially pricey add-ons
Our Hand-On Testing:Response Times
We tested response times for MGHome Cellular, MGMini, MGMini Lite, and MGMove, along with my grandma’s Active Guardian system (which the company no longer sells). We typically got in touch with an emergency-response agent in around 15 seconds, which falls right in the middle of our average response times for Bay Alarm Medical.
Testing out Medical Guardian's MGMini Lite
In one experience, I had a hard time connecting with an agent using my grandma’s system at home. When I placed a test call, the agent couldn’t hear me very clearly and the signal started to cut in and out. Because the agent didn’t hear that I was just making a test call, she said she was going to dispatch first responders. Luckily, I was able to call Medical Guardian on my cell phone and let them know it was a false alarm. I appreciate the company’s quick response when they thought I needed help, but that could be quite the hassle if it happened regularly.
Customer Service
My grandma has always had a great experience with Medical Guardian, as customer service representatives are friendly and quick to answer. Medical Guardian never made my grandma and I feel like we were being rushed off the phone. They gave us plenty of time to ask questions and resolve any issues we had.
We also liked that Medical Guardian makes it easy to connect with someone by phone, email, or contact form. Unlike Bay Alarm Medical’s customer-care team, Medical Guardian’s customer service isn’t available on Sundays. If you need help on the weekend, make sure to get in touch before the offices close for the week on Saturday.
Pricing
Medical Guardian’s price for ts MGHome Cellular is $37.95 per month. That’s $8 more than Bay Alarm Medical’s cellular in-home system. Medical Guardian’s system also has a $149.95 equipment fee, which I’m not a big fan of. If you want a mobile cellular system, prices range from $39.95 to $44.95.
Those prices seem competitive at first glance, but they don’t factor in the additional $10 per month for fall detection. Medical Guardian’s equipment fees are also high compared to providers such as Bay Alarm Medical. Depending on the device you choose, you’ll pay a one-time equipment fee between $149.95 and $199.95.
» For Bargain Hunters: Best Medical Alert Systems With No Monthly Fees
In addition to fall detection, Medical Guardian offers a lot of extras that could increase the cost of your service. You can add a wireless wall button for $2.99 per month, an entryway key lockbox for $2.99 per month, an equipment protection plan for $6.99 per month, a two-way speaker that connects directly with a 911 emergency responder for $9.99 per month, and a Support Circle app for easy contact with loved ones for $5 per month. My grandma and I loved having the option to customize our plan exactly the way we wanted, but those costs definitely add up.
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3. LifeFone - Most Affordable Fall Detection
What we like most
- Cellular systems starting at $34.95 per month
- 1,300-foot button-to-base range
- At-home and on-the-go cellular systems
LifeFoneOverview:
LifeFone – At Home (Landline or Cellular) Equipment
Overview
Since an older adult experiences a fall every second,2 I recommend adding automatic fall detection to your cellular system. LifeFone made our list because it offers some of the lowest-priced fall detection in the industry at just $5 per month. That’s half the cost of fall detection with most other providers, including Medical Guardian and Bay Alarm Medical. LifeFone’s At-Home Cellular system is $34.95 per month, and LifeFone offers a price-lock guarantee, so you won’t have to worry about the price of your service going up in the future.
» Learn More: 2024 LifeFone Review
In addition to affordable fall detection and a price-lock guarantee, LifeFone offers valuable perks such as free spouse monitoring. The company also offers discounts to veterans and AARP members, so take advantage if you qualify! All of LifeFone’s cellular systems are compatible with AT&T and Verizon networks, which gives seniors in rural or low-coverage areas more ways to stay connected and protected.
» Related Reading: Best Medical Alert Systems for Veterans
Pros & Cons:Pros About LifeFone
- No activation or equipment fees
- No long-term contracts
- Price-lock guarantee
- Inexpensive automatic fall detection
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- 1,300-foot button-to-base range
- Free spouse monitoring
Cons About LifeFone
- Free shipping only available on certain billing plans
- Only English- and Spanish-speaking agents
- Best rates require an annual plan
Our Hand-On Testing:Response Times
Based on my testing, LifeFone offers solid response times. I tested the In-Home Cellular package and the VIP flex system using the help buttons on both devices. I was able to get an emergency-response agent on the line in about 20 seconds with both systems. That was only five seconds slower than Medical Guardian, and 10 seconds faster than Aloe Care Health.
Charging LifeFone's VIP flex system
Customer Service
I called LifeFone’s customer-care number on three different occasions, and each time I was connected with a friendly, knowledgeable representative. Everyone I spoke with was happy to answer any questions I had and offer recommendations.
LifeFone has two numbers. The one you should call depends on the nature of your inquiry — general information or tech support — and we had to wait only a few minutes to connect with someone. It took a few days to get a response to our email inquiry, which was longer than it took Bay Alarm Medical’s customer support team. Still, as long as your issues are not urgent, LifeFone offers a great all-around customer experience.
>> Compare: LifeFone vs. Medical Guardian
Pricing
LifeFone’s At-Home Cellular system starts at $34.95 per month, which is around $5 more than Bay Alarm Medical’s similar system. You can knock that price down to $30.95 per month with an annual plan though. We think adding fall detection is a great value at just $5 per month, especially if you or a loved one are prone to missteps or falls.
» Also Check Out: Best Affordable Medical Alert Systems
LifeFone also has several mobile medical alert options if you spend a lot of time on the go. The VIP Active system offers GPS and Wi-Fi tracking, starting at $43.95 per month. For a mobile device with a longer battery life and an optional caregiver app, you can upgrade to the VIPx plan, which starts at $45.95 per month. The Safe Watch Active system is an excellent option for active seniors who want features such as heart monitoring and step tracking, but it’s also one of the most expensive plans at $49.95 per month. Unlike Medical Guardian, which charges high fees for equipment, LifeFone doesn’t charge activation or equipment fees. That’s a big win!
» You Might Like: Best Medical Alert bBracelets
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4. Aloe Care Health - Best High-Tech System
What we like most
- One free month of service for veterans
- Prices starting at $39.99 per month
- Unique features: Activity and caregiver monitoring
Overview:
Unboxing my Aloe Care Health Smart Hub
Overview
If you’re an older adult who embraces advanced technology, Aloe Care Health will be right up your alley. The Essentials package, powered by AT&T’s 4G network, uses a Smart Hub and help button to provide medical alert protection, motion and temperature monitoring, and check-in calls. The company’s modern technology is why it made our list.
I found that Aloe Care Health’s Smart Hub is very sleek and blended right in with the kitchen counter. If you’re looking for discreet protection, it’s my top in-home pick. The Smart Hub is also voice-activated, so you can use it just like a smart speaker.
My uncle trying out the Aloe Care Health Mobile Companion
With the mobile app, I could call the Smart Hub and use the two-way speaker to talk to the user. I also like that the system can detect motion and send alerts to the mobile app. When my uncle tried the system, I received an alert each morning when he first walked past the Care Hub. I could also see alerts if he hadn’t walked by the system for long periods of time. Those are unique features I haven’t seen with most medical alert systems. If your loved one lives alone, it’s an easy way to check in and make sure they’re OK.
Expert InsightsFrom Linda Schlenker, M.S., M.A., O.T.R,Aloe Care Health may be a little too high tech for many, but for those who can handle the technology, it has a lot of great features.Pros & Cons:Pros About Aloe Care Health
- Motion, temperature, and air-quality sensors
- Secure app for caregivers
- Two-way check-in calls via Smart Hub
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- No long-term contracts
- Assistance available by voice or by pressing the help button
Cons About Aloe Care Health
- Only works on AT&T’s cellular network
- Fall detection only available with top-tier packages
- High equipment fee
Our Hand-On Testing:Response Times
With average response times of 30 seconds, Aloe Care Health is a little slower than the other providers on our list. The times we recorded with Aloe Care Health are by no means slow though; LifeFone beat Aloe Care Health by only about 10 seconds.
» Further Reading: Aloe Care Health Medical Alert Review
I’m a big fan of the smart hub’s voice-activated feature. To call for help, I could press my help button or just say “emergency” three times in a row. The system picked up my voice and connected with Aloe Care Health’s emergency-response center. That’s a great option if you can’t press your pendant or you forget to wear it.
Customer Service
The Total Care app for caregivers makes it pretty easy for loved ones to keep in touch with support as needed. I could contact support via the secure mobile app, over the phone, or using the website’s live chat feature. When setting up my system, I had some trouble getting the mobile app to connect with the Smart Hub. I gave customer service a call, and they helped me troubleshoot the problem. It took a few attempts to get the system up and running, and the representative was patient and persistent!
A friendly customer-care representative greeted me and answered my questions with ease. Unfortunately, like QMedic, Aloe Care Health’s customer-care team is closed on weekends. That makes it a bit harder to get technical questions answered promptly.
Pricing
The cost of an Aloe Care Health system is a bit more than competitors such as Bay Alarm Medical and QMedic. The Essentials system costs $39.99 per month for monitoring service and $199.99 for equipment. Prices continue to climb for top-tier packages, but I believe the technology and sleek equipment can be worth the cost. Aloe Care Health also offers two mobile cellular medical alert systems for on-the-go older adults.
» Related Reading: Best Medical Alert Systems for Active Seniors
The Essentials Plus system, featuring the Smart Hub and a mobile device, has a staggering $349.99 equipment fee and $59.99 monthly rate. To put that price in perspective, you can get a comparable Bay Alarm Medical bundle with the same monthly rates and pay around $250 less in equipment fees. We love Aloe Care Health’s high-tech systems, but you’d be better off choosing another company if you’re on a tight budget.
Aloe Care Health’s equipment fee and monthly service fees are a bit higher than its competitors’, but you’ll get advanced features that other providers simply don’t offer. For those who want a reliable cellular medical alert system with all the bells and whistles, an Aloe Care Health system checks all the boxes.
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5. QMedic - Best Activity Monitoring
What we like most
- Detailed activity monitoring
- Simple, no-frills systems
- No equipment fees
Overview:
Qmedic Home Medical Alert
QMedic: Best Activity Monitoring
QMedic uses intelligent activity monitoring to provide helpful insights to caregivers. In addition to offering medical alert protection, QMedic systems monitor the user’s activity patterns, sleep, and compliance with wearing the help button. For caregivers who want to closely monitor their loved ones when they’re away, QMedic provides optimal data, which earned it a spot on our list.
Pro Tip: Need help taking care of a loved one? Check out our guide for family caregivers of seniors.
Unfortunately, you have to pay for QMedic annually and the company doesn’t refund customers for unused service after their 30-day trial period, so make sure QMedic is the best fit for your needs before purchasing. Caregivers of older adults with mobility issues or dementia may benefit from the activity monitoring, but QMedic doesn’t offer fall detection. If your loved one has a history of falling, consider LifeFone’s affordable fall detection or read our list of the best medical alert systems with fall detection.
QMedic uses AT&T’s cellular network by default, but it’s also compatible with various regional carriers, as well as UScellular (upon request).
» You Might Like: Best Medical Alert Systems for Seniors With Dementia
Pros & Cons:Pros About QMedic
- Detailed activity and compliance monitoring
- No equipment fees
- Free shipping
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- Free spouse monitoring
- Caregiver dashboard
Cons About QMedic
- Annual payment required for service
- No refund after 30 days
- Limited product lineup
Our Hand-On Testing:Response Times
When testing QMedic’s equipment, I pressed the large button on the base unit (which, I admit, is pretty clunky-looking). I heard a confirmation that said, “Alarm activated,” followed by a beeping noise. The agent who answered the call spoke clearly, loudly, and slowly. It was easy to communicate with the system’s speaker.
Expert InsightsFrom Linda Schlenker, M.S., M.A., O.T.R,QMedic is a terrific option for seniors who may need a little more supervision from a distance. Many family members have concerns about their loved one not wearing their medical alert, so being able to monitor it is important.I found average response times of around 30 seconds. That’s in line with industry standards and similar to Aloe Care Health’s response times, but a little slower than Bay Alarm Medical and Medical Guardian. To learn more about our team’s experience with QMedic, check out our video below with Jeff Hoyt, SeniorLiving.org’s Editor-in-Chief.
QMedic Medical Alert System Review Customer Service
QMedic offers pretty standard customer support, with agents available by phone or email. I was pretty impressed with how quickly I could get someone on the phone. I waited only about two minutes to reach someone. I was able to get all of our questions answered sufficiently by friendly customer-service representatives. Like Bay Alarm Medical, QMedic lacks any kind of live chat option, which is not ideal for seniors who need assistance without delay. Moreover, QMedic’s offices are closed on Saturdays and Sundays.
Pricing
QMedic’s pricing is a bit different from its competitors. You have to pay for a year of service in advance, which comes out to $300 for the home cellular system. For the mobile cellular option, the price goes up to $400 per year. When I tested QMedic’s system, I found the technology to be worth the up-front cost if you don’t mind prepaying for your service. If you prefer a monthly payment model and the option to cancel service at any time, however, you’re better off with a provider such as Bay Alarm Medical or Medical Guardian.
QMedic also offers more enhanced plans with fall detection and smartwatch technology, but you’ll need to contact QMedic for up-to-date pricing. The upside is that, unlike Aloe Care Health and Medical Guardian, QMedic doesn’t charge equipment fees. That means you won’t have any costs aside from the annual premium if you opt for the pricier Mobile GPS plan. If you do the math (and I did), you can get 24/7 monitoring at home and on the go for $33.33 per month. That’s about $6 per month cheaper than a comparable plan from Bay Alarm Medical.
The Pros and Cons of a Cellular Medical Alert System
Using Medical Guardian's help bracelet with the MGHome Cellular system
Still trying to decide between a landline and a cellular medical alert system? We’ll look at the advantages and drawbacks of a system without a landline below.
Pros
- Convenience: The number of U.S. homes without a landline keeps increasing. As of December 2022, 47.8 percent of adults 65 and over and 72.7 percent of all U.S. households depend solely on cell phones (no landlines at all), while just 0.6 percent of U.S. households are landline-only. As landlines become a thing of the past, a medical alert system that uses cellular service to provide protection is convenient and will only grow more popular.
- Mobility: For snowbirds and seniors who like to travel, a cellular medical alert system can be carried from home to home. If you get a landline system, you’ll have to worry about the homes you visit having landlines too. With an in-home cellular medical alert system, all you need is a power outlet. If you choose an on-the-go cellular system, you won’t even need a power outlet. Just throw your system on like a necklace or wristwatch, and you’re good to go!
Cons
- Cost: In-home systems usually range from $20 to $40 per month, depending on the provider and add-ons you select. In-home cellular medical alert systems without a landline typically are $5 to $10 more per month than systems that use a landline. On-the-go cellular medical alert systems tend to be pricier than in-home options, starting at around $35 per month.
- Reception: Just as your cell phone needs good reception to connect your phone calls, so does a cellular medical alert system. If you don’t have a landline, the medical alert system will rely on cellular coverage to make calls to the emergency-monitoring center. If you live in a rural area, make sure you’ll have strong, reliable reception for your cellular system. If you have concerns, ask a customer-service representative before you purchase a cellular system.
FYI:If you or a loved one struggles with hearing loss, consider a medical alert system for seniors with hearing loss.
Do I Need Wi-Fi for a Cellular Medical Alert System?
About 64 percent of U.S. adults over the age of 65 have a broadband connection in their home.4 Although the majority of older adults have an internet connection, it isn’t necessary to have one for an in-home or on-the-go cellular medical alert system, because a medical alert system without a landline uses cellular coverage (think Verizon or AT&T) to connect to the emergency-monitoring center when you need help. That’s why it’s important to make sure the medical alert provider has good cellular coverage in your area if you don’t have a landline.
How to Pick a Cellular Medical Alert System
Shopping for a medical alert system can quickly become overwhelming. There are so many options! We’ve done a lot of comparing to narrow it down for you, but you’ll ultimately need to make a decision for yourself or your loved one. To select a cellular medical alert system without a landline, consider all of the following:
- Focus on value: Nothing is more frustrating than spending your money on a product or service only to find out the quality doesn’t match the price tag. Read reviews, check out YouTube videos, and ask friends and family for recommendations. Doing all those things can increase your chances of choosing a system that gives you the most bang for your buck.
- Think about the features you want: For some older adults, technology is exciting. For others, it can be intimidating. Whether you prefer to keep it simple or embrace new tech, there are systems with features for everyone. Make sure the system you choose can accommodate your lifestyle, preferences, and technology skill level.
- Make sure you’re protected: With a medical alert system, 24/7 monitoring is a must. As long as you pick a system that has around-the-clock support and fast response times, you can generally rest easy knowing your safety is in good hands.
Did You Know? Nearly 80 percent of falls occur in the home, particularly in or around the bedroom, bathroom, and stairs.5
Mobile System vs. In-Home Cellular Medical Alert System
A mobile system — sometimes called an on-the-go or GPS system — provides protection no matter where you are, whether you’re taking a stroll on the beach, hiking, or relaxing by the pool. An in-home system provides protection — you guessed it! — in the home. They both use cellular service to connect you to the monitoring center in an emergency, but an in-home system has a limited range of about 400 to 1,300 feet, depending on the system you purchase.
Testing out Medical Guardian's MGMini system
For homebodies without a landline, an in-home cellular medical alert system, like the ones we listed above, will work just fine. If you’re active and want your cellular medical alert system to be as mobile as you are, an on-the-go system is probably more your style. On-the-go systems usually are a bit more expensive than in-home systems, but the comprehensive protection they offer is worth the extra bucks. If you’re interested in a mobile system, check out our list of the best GPS medical alert systems.
Still not sure if a home system is right for you? Check out the video below.
FAQs
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Does AT&T have a medical alert system?
AT&T has a partnership with the family-owned company LifeStation, but it does not have its own medical alert system. AT&T, however, is compatible with many other medical alert system providers.
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What is the difference between a landline and cellular medical alert system?
A landline medical alert system requires you to use a base station that’s connected to the phone jack in your home, and it uses that landline connection to get help. A cellular system uses a cellular network to connect to a monitoring center, opening the door for in-home and on-the-go protection (depending on the system you choose).
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What cellular network does Life Alert use?
Life Alert uses GSM cellular service, which includes carriers such as AT&T, T-Mobile, and Mint Mobile.
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Can a cell phone be used for a medical alert system?
Yes, some modern smartphones come equipped with emergency-response features and, in some cases, fall detection. Providers such as Lively design phones with dedicated medical alert buttons and 24/7 monitoring services.
National Center for Health Statistics. (2023). Early Release Reports on Wireless Substitution.
National Council on Aging. (2022). What Does Living on a Fixed Income Mean?
CDC. (2023). About Older Adult Fall Prevention
Pew Research Center. (2024). Internet, Broadband Fact Sheet.
National Library of Medicine. (2020). A Descriptive Analysis of Location of Older Adult Falls That Resulted in Emergency Department Visits in the United States.