Table of Contents
Our Verdict
Alert1 Medical Alert Systems (Alert1) is a medical alert system provider that offers an in-home device (landline or wireless) and two on-the-go mobile devices. Each system provides access to a 24/7/365 emergency assistance contact center.
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Key Features
- Selection of medical alert systems and accessories for home use and for on-the-go emergency care
- Alert1 monitoring systems are UL-listed, which means they have have undergone and passed product safety certification checks, according to the company
- Alert1 monitoring call centers are U.S.-based and provide 24/7 multilingual support for 190 languages, according to the company
Founded in 1988, Alert1 is based in Williamsport, Pennsylvania. The company is the result of Paul Graafsma’s focus on building technology to assist older adults like his grandmother who lived alone.
Alert1 Medical Alert System at a Glance
- Price: Monthly service options start at $28.95 per month, and prepaid service options (when paying for at least 10 months) start at $199.50 (which averages to $19.95 per month) for Alert1’s home- and mobile-based medical alert systems. Wireless medical alert systems and automatic fall detection services can each cost an additional $10 per month, depending on the service option selected.
- Installation: Devices are pre-programmed—users just have to take the device out of the box and plug it in. Alert1 does, however, provide additional installation support through video tutorials and phone support as needed.
- Coverage: Alert1 provides medical monitoring services in all 50 states. Alert1 devices use AT&T and Verizon networks.
How Do Alert1 Medical Alert Systems Work?
Alert1 offers several device and service options for in-home and on-the-go protection. Devices come in several wearable forms, such as a pendant, belt clip or wristwatch. All wearable devices are waterproof and compatible with pacemakers, according to the company.
According to Alert1, all Alert1 devices operate by pressing an alarm button in the event of a fall, medical concern or emergency. The device then connects the user with Alert1’s command center, where operators are trained in handling medical, safety and emergency situations.
- Service starts at $24.95 a month
- 2-way communication during an emergency
- 32-hour battery backup in the event of a power outage
- Help button has a signal range of up to 1,000 feet
- Up to 5 years of battery life
Call NowThe systems provide two-way communication between the user and the Alert1 call operator. For in-home devices, communication occurs through the base unit. For on-the-go devices, communication occurs through the device itself, which is equipped with a microphone and speaker.
“Once a member sends an alert, our emergency response team stays on the line with them until help arrives,” says an Alert1 Medical Alert Systems salesperson. “Our systems [also] offer optional fall detection technology, which is a built-in sensor that can automatically detect falls.” If a fall is detected and the user is unable to press the alarm button or speak with an operator, Alert1 will activate its non-response protocol and contact emergency services to check on the user.
On-the-go devices are GPS enabled and use Verizon or AT&T mobile networks to provide 24/7 coverage across the U.S. You don’t need to have a cell phone to use these devices.
Whenever the system sends a low battery signal to Alert1, the company will replace the battery for the base station or send the user a new alarm button at no additional cost.
The Cost of Alert1 Medical Alert Systems
Alert1 offers several device options and service packages. There’s a monthly rate, as well as a prepaid option, which involves paying for 10 months up front. According to Alert1, there are no long-term contracts and prorated refunds are available for prepaid options. There are also no cancellation fees, though members are responsible for equipment return shipping fees.
Alert1 also offers optional accessories and support packages for in-home protection for additional fees. Accessories can include a wall-mounted emergency button ($39.95), emergency lockbox ($39.95), surge guard ($19.95), protective case ($9.95) and belt adapters ($9.95). Additional support services include the Advantage Plan ($8.33 per month), which provides free replacement, repairs and coverage for damage or destruction to devices, and a monitored smoke detector ($10 per month) that notifies the Alert1 command center if smoke is detected in the home.
If a second person in the user’s home could benefit from Alert1’s monitoring services, they are eligible for a discount, depending on the device and service options selected. Users must contact Alert1 directly, as discounts can vary by device and service plan selected.
To qualify for a product return, users must be within their 30-day trial period and use the Alert1 device to make a successful test call to the command center before returning the device in its original condition. Any prepaid shipping, warranty or activation fees are nonrefundable, according to the company. Customers who opted to prepay for monitoring services would need to return the system to Alert1 in good condition before any prorated refund can be issued.
What Experts Say
“Medical alert companies either rent or sell their equipment,” says Kathleen Cameron, a senior director at the Center for Healthy Aging at the National Council on Aging. “If you rent the equipment, the cost will be included in your monthly fee, and you’ll need to return the equipment upon ending your subscription. If you buy the equipment, you’ll pay an upfront equipment fee.” She also notes that high-tech devices, such as a smartwatch, often cost extra, encouraging older adults to inquire about hidden fees.
“It’s important for the older adult and their caregiver(s), in some cases, to identify their specific needs, budget and technology capacity and capabilities when choosing a product,” adds Cameron. “A health care professional like an occupational therapist can help determine needs and what products best meet those needs.“ She also notes that connection type, device range and battery life needs depend on the individual choosing a device. “Older adults should think about how often they’re at home and how often they like to get out of the house,” she says.
In regards to technology, Cameron mentions that medical alert systems have evolved significantly over the past several years, with some integrating technologies like home security systems, smartphones, caregiver app connections, GPS tracking and medication management services. She acknowledges that while there are privacy concerns with these systems, as technology becomes more consumer friendly, it will lead to better protection for older adults—especially those who live alone and are at risk for fall-related injuries.
You May Also Be Interested In Medical Alert Systems For Home Use From Our Featured Partners
Medical Guardian MGClassic
- Service starts at $29.95 a month
- In-home range is 1,300 feet
- Translation services for emergency response available in 70 languages
- Automatic fall detection available for additional $10 per month
Bay Alarm Medical In-Home Medical Alert
- Service starts at $24.95 a month
- All packages include a choice of wristband or necklace alert wearable
- 24/7 live agent will initiate 2-way conversation, assess the situation and make sure you’re taken care of
- No minimum contract lengths
GetSafe Medical Alert System
- Equipment costs start at $79, service starts at $27.95 a month
- Medical alert buttons are 100% waterproof with a 5 year battery life
- Get help by pushing a button, pulling a cord, or simply saying “Call 9-1-1. Call 9-1-1.”
- No landline required
MobileHelp Classic
- Service starts at $19.95 a month
- Remote activation with 1400 ft. range
- Waterproof help button
- No landline required
LifeFone At-Home Landline
- Service starts at $24.95 a month
- In-home range is 1,300 feet and wearable button range is 1,300 feet
- With 32-hour backup battery
- Free system activation
(Note: Product details and price are accurate as of publication and are subject to change.)
The Experience
Many reviewers on the Consumer Affairs website share that they faced challenges when trying to cancel their Alert1 subscription—either for themselves or a family member. Issues encountered include declining the refund, not receiving a prorated refund after prepaying for the service, lack of company communication and unclear policies. One user writes: “My elderly mother has been charged $25 a month for 11 months without someone notifying her that the old machine that stopped working needed to be returned or there would be a charge on her credit card every month. They said a letter was sent out once. This is unacceptable when the majority of your clients are elderly. And on fixed incomes. She didn’t even see the charge.”
Meanwhile, other Consumer Affairs reviewers note that users will be charged $15 if Alert1 sends them a prepaid envelope to return equipment.
One pleased customer posted, “My alarm button worked exactly as it was supposed to,” adding that they were grateful for the quick response time. Another user, whose mother uses Alert1, shared that the alert button provides security by alerting emergency contacts each time the user presses the alert button.
Read more about our medical alert systems review methodology.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How much do Alert1 devices cost?
Users can rent Alert1 systems and devices, except for the On-the-Go Wrist Watch. System costs are built into monthly service rates, with the exception of the On-the-Go Wrist Watch, for which users must pay an upfront equipment cost of $179. Alert1 also has a one-time product activation fee of $19.95 for in-home and on-the-go devices purchased on a monthly service plan. This fee is waived if users opt for the prepaid service plan.
Are Alert1 systems worth it?
If you need a medical alert system, Alert1 provides a range of options for you to explore. First, determine the most suitable device option, service package and payment plan based on your lifestyle, health needs and budget. The company also has a 30-day trial period, for which specific terms, conditions and charges may apply, depending on whether you choose a monthly or prepaid service plan.
Are Alert1 systems easy to set up and use?
Alert1 devices are designed for self-installation. Devices are pre-programmed and allow users to get started by simply taking the device out of the box and plugging it in. Alert1 also provides installation support through video tutorials and phone support.
All Alert1 devices operate by pressing the alarm button in the event of a fall, medical concern or emergency. The alarm button connects the user with Alert1’s 24/7 command center, where operators are trained in handling medical, safety and emergency situations, according to the company. If a fall is detected and the user is unable to press the alarm button or speak with an operator, Alert1 activate its non-response protocol and contacts emergency services.
