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Help when something goes wrong

When someone needs help, the question is who answers. Some buttons reach a response center staffed around the clock. Others ring a pager in the next room.

What to look for

  • Who answers: a 24/7 response center, or someone in the home.
  • Whether it works only at home or also out and about.
  • The monthly service fee, any equipment fee, and what fall detection adds.
  • Whether it needs a landline.

Questions to ask first

  • Will the person wear it, and where?
  • Who should get the call, and did the person choose?
  • What does it cost after any sale or first-month offer?

Good to know

A simple call button works inside the home only. It does not call 911 or an outside service. The person decides when to call.

Listings for this need

7 listings

Listings are guides. Fit depends on each person's needs.

Every listing on this page was checked on the date shown. See how we check.

Questions people ask

Do medical alert systems need a monthly fee?

The ones with a 24/7 response center do. The listing shows the monthly cost and any equipment fee.

How much does fall detection add?

It varies by maker, and it is often an add-on. Each listing shows it.

Is there a help button that doesn't need a monthly plan?

Yes. In-home call buttons with a pager have no plan, but they only reach someone in the home.