An emergency button can provide invaluable peace of mind to caretakers of elderly parents, spouses and themselves alike. These lifesaving devices enable seniors to remain independent at home knowing that assistance can be called in case of falls or medical emergencies; however, selecting an effective system is paramount.The best senior alert systems feature wearable devices like pendants and bracelets with buttons designed to summon help when necessary. When activated, these devices connect with a central monitoring center staffed with experienced medical professionals who can dispatch emergency responders if necessary. Furthermore, some consoles may feature two-way speakers so the senior can speak directly with an operator in real time; and often monitoring centers also contact family or friends listed by seniors as emergency contacts.Most top-rated medical alert systems boast extremely rapid response times of under an hour, which is of paramount importance as this will allow seniors to be seen and treated quickly, decreasing complications and potentially saving costs in care costs. Furthermore, the system should offer additional safety features, including GPS tracking that monitors an elderly person's movements around their home or neighborhood.Since not everyone has access to a landline phone, consider looking for systems that don't rely on traditional landlines; many top-rated brands feature portable cellular-based systems which operate nationwide networks instead. Cellular systems are more convenient for active seniors who frequently leave their home.A system designed for seniors must also be easy for them to use. Search for consoles with large buttons that are simple for those with limited eyesight or dexterity impairments to understand and operate, while making sure wearable devices fit comfortably; otherwise, seniors may abandon it, rendering its protection worthless.An effective emergency alert system must be regularly tested to ensure its proper function. Before selecting your provider, inquire into their testing procedures and frequency. medical alarms for the elderly Check for warranties so you can ensure your senior receives help if their device stops working unexpectedly. Companies often provide trial periods to test equipment is an appropriate fit for elderly users before signing a long-term contract, so take advantage of any available offers if available - no senior should pay for something they won't use and may never need! For more information about our top picks for emergency buttons for seniors read through our full reviews or compare prices between companies to spot hidden fees or charges.