Life Alert necklaces and other medical alert systems have become crucial lifelines for seniors aging in place, providing invaluable peace of mind for both users and their loved ones. These wearable devices with help buttons support individuals in maintaining independence while ensuring help is always within reach whenever needed. If you're wondering about Life Alert necklaces and similar wearable alert pendants - how they work, where to buy them, and how much they cost - Alert1 has the answers.

What Is a Life Alert Necklace?

A Life Alert necklace is a specific brand of wearable PERS (personal emergency response system) that is worn as a pendant around the neck. There are many other brands of alert pendants available, and several of them are not only significantly less expensive, but they also offer features that LifeAlert does not provide, such as fall detection. These wearable alert necklaces for seniors allow users to summon immediate help with the simple press of a button. Because the Life Alert company has become famous for its “I’ve fallen and I can’t get up” commercials, many people use the term generically for any medical alert (similar to calling tissues “Kleenex” or colas “Coke”). These wearable alert systems connect users to a 24/7 monitoring center where live, trained emergency response agents can dispatch professional help or personal contacts as needed.

How Does a Life Alert Necklace or Other Alert Pendant Work?

When a person wearing an Alert1 pendant or Life Alert necklace presses the button during an emergency, the system immediately connects to the company's response center. The agents at the monitoring center then assess the situation and dispatch appropriate help.

Key Features of Alert1 and Life Alert Necklaces or Similar Devices

• Wearable help button for easy access during emergencies
• Shower-safe, water-resistant design allows the person wearing it to use it in the bathroom where many falls occur
• Compact size makes it easy and comfortable to wear
• Live, trained agents in the monitoring center who are available 24/7
• Selection of devices includes help necklaces for in-home or mobile (on-the-go) use
• Automatic fall detection capabilities are available with Alert1, but not with LifeAlert
• GPS tracking built into mobile medical alert systems
  

How Much Does a LifeAlert Necklace Cost Compared to an Alert1 Help Necklace?

Life Alert necklaces range in price from $49.95 to $89.95 per month, making them among the most expensive options in the medical alert industry. The exact cost depends on the specific package and features selected:

• Basic in-home system: LifeAlert typically starts around $49.95 per month, while Alert1 starts at $19.95 per month
• Mobile systems with GPS: Life Alert is usually around $69.95 per month, while Alert1 is $29.95/month
• Complete protection packages: LifeAlert can reach $89.95 per month, while Alert1 is half that price

In addition to the monthly fees, the Life Alert company often requires:

• A one-time activation fee of $200 or more (free activation with Alert1)
• A three-year contract commitment (no contracts with Alert1)
• Potential equipment costs in the hundreds (free equipment use with Alert1)

It's important to note that Life Alert's total cost over time can be substantially higher than the cost of competitor help necklaces such as those from Alert1 due to their higher pricing across the board and long-term contract requirement.

Where to Buy a Life Alert Type Necklace

If you're wondering where to buy a Life Alert necklace or other similar type of emergency alert pendant, here are the main options:

How to Get a Life Alert Necklace or Other Emergency Alert Pendant

1. Contact the alert company: Call the company's customer service number or visit their website
2. Get a free consultation: Discuss your specific needs with a sales representative
3. Choose a payment plan: Select from the available service packages
4. Sign a contract (if needed): LifeAlert requires a three-year contract; Alert1 does not
5. Receive the device: The system will be shipped to you, often pre-programmed and ready to wear

Benefits of Alert Necklaces for Seniors & Family Members

Comparing Life Alert to Other Medical Alert Systems

While Life Alert is perhaps the best-known brand thanks to its "I've fallen and I can't get up" commercials, other systems in the medical alert industry might provide:

•  Faster response times from the monitoring center
•  More flexible monthly payments with no hidden fees
•  No long-term contracts with the ability to cancel anytime
•  No activation fees
•  Lower monthly or yearly costs
•  Free use of alert necklace with service
  

Many providers such as Alert1 offer discounts for annual plans, making it a cost-effective option for long-term use.

Cost and Contract Length Comparisons

Additional features like automatic fall detection typically increase the rate by $5 - $10 per month. While Alert1 does not charge any equipment fees, many other companies charge from $30 to $160 depending on the system. Always ask about any additional fees that may not be disclosed upfront, as these can add to the overall cost. For example, Alert1 does not charge an Activation fee, while most other alert necklace providers charge $99 and up.

Alert Necklace Discounts

• Many providers offer promotional discounts to new customers
• Many companies, such as Alert1, offer AARP and Veterans discounts
• Look for companies that do not charge equipment fees or activation fees
• Of note, most health insurance plans don't cover alert pendants

DIY and Alternative Options

For those searching "how to make a life alert necklace" or "how to make a fake life alert necklace" due to budget constraints, there are more affordable alternatives to consider:

While these DIY options don't provide the professional monitoring service of a true Life Alert necklace, they may serve as temporary or budget-friendly alternatives. However, for reliable emergency response, a professional medical alert system is recommended.

Types of Systems Available

Design and Wearability Factors

The effectiveness of a medical alert system largely depends on whether the person wearing it will use it consistently: