What is a Personal Medical Alarm

A personal medical alarm (also called a home monitoring device or a personal emergency response system, PERS) is an easy-to-use device that allows someone to get help at the push of a button. They can be fixed 4G Gateway VoLTE systems made up of a base unit and pendants or mobile cellular devices that work anywhere cellular service is available.

Choosing a Monitored System

There are many types of medical alert systems on the market, but not all are created equal. It's important to evaluate your loved one's specific needs and abilities, past and future, before choosing a device and service.

When a user presses the help button on an at-home base unit, wearable device or mobile system, a monitoring center professional contacts him or her to verify the emergency, then dispatches rescue services. Some systems also include a lockbox, which allows rescuers or caregivers to gain entry into the home without damaging windows and doors.

Ask providers about their connection requirements, including whether the devices use landline, cellular or Wi-Fi technology and what type of coverage is available in your area. Evaluate whether they offer an at-home or on-the-go solution and if the device offers optional fall detection, which can automatically alert the call center if it detects a fall without the user needing to press the button. Also, find out what features are included in the monthly fee -- some devices come with a smartphone that users can utilize on the go and others feature additional functionality such as games and video chat.

Unmonitored Systems

While not as reliable as a monitored system, unmonitored medical alert systems offer lower upfront costs. They typically connect directly to 911 or a list of predetermined emergency contacts (which may include family members and caregivers).

In the event of an accident or other health concern, pushing the help button on a medical alarm system’s base station or wearable pendant sends an alert to a 24/7 monitoring center. An operator then communicates with you to assess your situation and determine if it’s necessary to call for help.

Unmonitored systems don’t have the advantage of live emergency operators, but most of our picks include a feature called activity monitoring that can detect when you’ve fallen. It works by using measurements from your device that indicate you may have fallen unconscious.

Some at-home systems and on-the-go medical alert systems provide a lockbox that allows emergency responders or caregivers to get into your home without damaging your windows and doors. This is a great option to consider if you live alone or have a condition that limits your mobility.

Base Units





The medical alert system base station is the heart of any at-home medical alarm system. gps panic alarm It houses a speaker and microphone that allows seniors to communicate with a live operator at the monitoring center when their help button is activated. The base unit typically has a backup battery and is plugged into an electrical outlet, so it will continue to work even in the event of a power outage. Some medical alert systems have built-in activity sensors that are able to alert caregivers if the user isn't following their normal daily patterns.

The base unit may connect the user to a predetermined list of emergency contacts (if a monitored system), or 911 in the case of a life-threatening situation. Different providers have their own procedures for determining what steps to take when a help button is pressed, so be sure to read through the company's policies before purchasing.

Some medical alert companies also offer mobile devices that can be taken on trips and walks. These systems use a cellular connection and can be tracked by loved ones on demand so they know if their loved one hasn't returned home in the expected time. Some mobile devices are also GPS-enabled so that monitoring staff and family members can locate a user if they're unable to verbally communicate their location.

Wearable Help Buttons

Many medical alert systems offer wearable help buttons that seniors can put on around their neck or wrist, clip to a belt or carry in their purse or pocket. These devices typically work by pushing a button or voice activation and instantly connect with the medical alert company’s UL-listed monitoring center. Some of these devices come with fall detection for an additional monthly fee.

Alternatively, some systems provide a wall-mounted button that is large and easy to spot, even for those with limited mobility or cognitive impairments. These buttons often have a longer battery life than wearable help buttons and can be activated with a single push or through voice activation.

Both at-home and on-the-go systems communicate with a monitoring center by either a base unit that plugs into a home’s electrical system or via cellular technology. Once the at-home or mobile device receives a call, a trained medical alert professional can contact the senior directly through two-way communication and dispatch emergency services as needed. Some medical alert systems include extra optional features like automatic fall detection, medication reminders and activity tracking.

Activity Sensors

A medical alert system, also known as a personal emergency response system (PERS) or an emergency call device, helps foster independence and provides peace of mind to loved ones. The premise is simple: A wearable pendant with a button that, when pressed, immediately connects the user to a monitoring center for help.

These centers, sometimes called dispatch centers, are contracted by the monitoring companies to respond to the calls from the medical alarm users. They will contact the emergency contacts listed by the user and may activate the devices’ built-in fall detection sensors to automatically alert the call center of a potential fall.

These sensors are now available in many products including specialized mobile personal medical alarms and smartwatches that look like traditional watches. They operate independently from a cellular phone and require no monthly service fees (although they will use some of your device’s battery life). Other wearable sensors are incorporated into orthoses and exoskeletons for patients with hemiplegia, as well as work posture monitors to reduce work-related back injuries. These sensors are able to collect motion data quickly and easily and provide accurate movement metrics to the user and their caregivers.