Personal Emergency Response Systems, otherwise also known as PERS are helping seniors looking to age in place to have convenient access to emergency and assisted care when desired.
The days of bulky and outdated panic buttons are now something of the past.
PERS devices are more streamlined and state-of-the-art, boasting unimaginable features.
While these devices may seem expensive, some manufacturers are focusing their efforts towards seniors looking to save a few extra dollars per month on PERS devices.
As we know tech gadgets of any caliber can come with a hefty price tag .
Wearable technology shouldn’t cost you your health and safety, and high-end devices such as these should be market and consumer-friendly, and above all affordable.
The following list comprises the four most affordable personal emergency response systems currently available on the market.
These devices have some incredible features and are truly designed with the user in mind, looking to give them the best the industry has to offer while keeping costs to a minimum.
Philips Lifeline
We’ll start the list with the Philips Lifeline, a PERS device for active seniors.
This device costs between $29.95 and $49.95 per month, but AARP members will receive an additional 15% membership discount.
Although not the cheapest of them all, the Philips comes standard with a free caregiver platform, automatic fall detection, and a caregiver app.
There is a small activation fee of $50 and can be as high as $99.95. The device can be worn or used in-home, and the battery can last for about three days before it needs to be recharged.
Unlike other top medical alert devices, the Philips automatic fall detection is free of charge, and no additional fee is needed to activate it.
Philips is popular for its user-friendliness and functionality and is trusted by the American Association for Retired Persons.
Medical Alert
Standard subscription plans for medical alert devices may be affordable, but it’s not always to say you’ll get everything included.
The Medical Alert PERS device has one of the best-designed packages, with prices starting at $19.95 per month, with more expensive plans topping $43.00 per month.
Features for the Medical Alert include a lifetime warranty, multiple button options, and a caregiver app.
Additionally, there are no activation or equipment fees involved, but for an additional $1 per month, you can sign up for their protection plan.
Users can decide if they want a wearable, or in-home device, as this is one of few devices that can be worn around the wrist or as a pendant.
Medical Alert can be connected to a landline or AT&T cell service.
MobileHelp
One of the most budget-friendly PERS devices currently on the market, MobileHelp has zero activation or equipment fees, and subscriptions can cost as little as $19.95 per month.
Their most expensive plan comes in at $44.95 but includes a plethora of additional features.
MobileHelp can easily connect to your smartphone via their app, which is shareable across multiple devices, giving friends and family some added peace of mind.
There are also two-way communication capabilities via Wired Home, and devices are monitored by the Security Industry Association Certification board.
Wearable tech doesn’t get cheaper than this, as an additional $10 per month gives you fall protection, and can be worn as a wrist button, or neck pendant with a range of 1,400 feet for in-home use.
LifeFone
Some PERS devices are only compatible with one individual at a time. LifeFone makes it easy for your spouse to join on one subscription plan, which can cost between $24.95 and $39.95 per month.
Depending on which device you’re looking to get, either wearable or in-home, LifeFone has a built-in smoke and carbon monoxide detector, bathroom and hallway buttons and has received a TMA Five Diamond Certification.
There is also no additional activation or equipment fees, and individuals who want to add fall detection can do so for an extra $5 per month.
LifeFone has all the bells and whistles you are looking for, and retirees still living with their spouses will find this to be the most affordable and convenient device.
Final Considerations
There is no need to break the bank when looking to purchase a medical alert system device.
Today’s technology and software are more accessible across all generations and have been designed to be more convenient and user-friendly, especially for older individuals looking to age in place.
As you enter your golden years, a PERS device adds more comfort for your spouse and your family.