Should I Get Life Alert if I Live Alone?

Whether or not to get a medical alert system like Life Alert if you live alone depends on several factors, including your overall health, mobility, and lifestyle.

If you have a chronic medical condition, mobility issues, or a history of falls, a medical alert system can provide peace of mind and help ensure that you get prompt medical attention in case of an emergency.

Similarly, if you live alone and do not have close family or friends nearby, a medical alert system can be a valuable tool for summoning help quickly in case of a medical emergency, such as a heart attack or stroke.

Woman thinking with a big question mark

However, if you are in good health, have no mobility issues, and have a strong support network of family and friends who live nearby, you may not need a medical alert system like Life Alert.

Ultimately, the decision to get a medical alert system is a personal one, and you should consider your individual needs and circumstances before making a decision. If you are unsure whether a medical alert system is right for you, you may want to speak with your doctor or a healthcare professional for guidance.

Living alone can be both liberating and challenging. You can do what you want when you want, but you’re also solely responsible for your safety and well-being. As we age, we become more vulnerable to accidents and medical emergencies. That’s why many people consider getting Life Alert, a personal emergency response system that can summon help with the press of a button.

What is a Life Alert?

Life Alert is a personal emergency response system (PERS) that provides wearable medical alert devices that can be used to summon help in case of a medical emergency or a fall. The company’s mission is to provide peace of mind and help seniors and people with disabilities live independently while ensuring they can receive assistance quickly in an emergency. Life Alert offers various devices and service plans to fit the needs and preferences of its customers.

Life Alert has been credited with saving many lives, and its effectiveness in emergencies is well-documented. However, it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution, and there are a few things to consider before deciding whether to get Life Alert.

Do Life Alert Devices Work? How Does it Work?

Life Alert is a personal emergency response system that can be used to summon help in a medical emergency or a fall. The device works by pressing a button on a pendant or wristband, which then sends a signal to a monitoring center. The center then contacts emergency services or designated family members to assist.

Life Alert devices can effectively provide quick access to help in an emergency, but it’s important to note that they are not foolproof and may not work in all circumstances. It’s also important to keep the device charged and within reach.

Do You Need Life Alert?

The decision to get Life Alert is personal, with many factors to consider. Here are a few things to keep in mind when deciding whether Life Alert is right for you:

Wi-Fi-enabled medical emergency alert systems

Health and Mobility

If you have a pre-existing medical condition that puts you at a higher risk of falling or experiencing a medical emergency, Life Alert may be a good option. The same applies if you have limited mobility, making it difficult to reach a phone or call for help in an emergency.

Living Situation

Living alone doesn’t necessarily mean you need Life Alert. If you have a support system nearby, such as family or friends who can check on you regularly, you may not need it. However, if you live in a remote area or don’t have a support system nearby, Life Alert can provide peace of mind.

Risk of Falling

Falls are one of the leading causes of injury and death among older adults. If you have a history of falling or are at a higher risk of falling, Life Alert can be an effective way to get help quickly in case of a fall.

Cost

Cost is one of the biggest factors to consider when deciding whether to get a Life Alert. Life Alert can be expensive, and there are monthly fees associated with the service. It’s important to weigh the costs against the potential benefits and decide whether it’s a worthwhile investment.

The Benefits of Life Alert

Here are some of the benefits of getting Life Alert:

Quick Response Time

In an emergency, every second counts. Life Alert has a quick response time, and the monitoring center can dispatch help within seconds of receiving your call.

24/7 Monitoring

Life Alert provides 24/7 monitoring, which means you can get help anytime or at night.

Peace of Mind

One of the biggest benefits of Life Alert is the peace of mind it provides. Knowing that you can get help quickly in an emergency can be a huge relief, especially if you live alone.

Frequently Asked Questions


Who can benefit from using Life Alert?

Life Alert is primarily designed for seniors and people with disabilities who live alone or are at risk of falling or experiencing a medical emergency. It can also be useful for anyone who wants extra protection and peace of mind.


How much does Life Alert cost?

The cost of Life Alert depends on the device and service plan you choose. Prices range from $20 to $90 per month, plus an initial equipment fee.


Does Life Alert require a long-term contract?

Life Alert does not require a long-term contract but offers discounts for customers who sign up for annual plans.


What happens if I accidentally press the Life Alert button?

If you accidentally press the Life Alert button, you should immediately notify the monitoring center to inform them that you are okay and do not require assistance. This will prevent the unnecessary dispatch of emergency services.


Is Life Alert waterproof?

Yes, Life Alert devices are designed to be waterproof, which means that they can be worn in the shower or bath.


Can I use Life Alert outside of my home?

Yes, Life Alert devices can be used inside and outside of the home as long as there is cellular coverage in your area.


Will Life Alert still work if the power goes out?

Yes, Life Alert devices have backup batteries that can provide power for up to 72 hours in case of a power outage.


How long does it take for help to arrive after I press the button?

The response time can vary depending on the location and severity of the emergency, but Life Alert’s average response time from a command center operator is around 20-30 seconds.


What happens if I move or travel to a different location?

If you move or travel to a different location, you need to contact Life Alert to update your information and ensure your device will work in your new location. Life Alert offers coverage throughout the United States, but there may be some areas where service is limited or unavailable.

Conclusion

Medicare-covered medical alert devices

So, should you get Life Alert if you live alone? It ultimately depends on your circumstances. If you have a pre-existing medical condition, are at a higher risk of falling, or don’t have a support system nearby, Life Alert can be a good investment.

However, if you’re in good health, have a support system nearby, and don’t have a history of falling, Life Alert may not be necessary.

Jose Alpuerto

Written by

Jose Alpuerto

With a heart that beats for the young and young-at-heart alike, Jose dives headfirst into the world of tech wizardry and safety gadgets, all with the mission of turning aging at home into an adventure. Armed with a keyboard and an unquenchable enthusiasm, he spins tales of gadgets that bring laughter and ease to the lives of the elderly, proving that growing older doesn’t mean you can’t keep the spirit of play alive.