Technology

NCOA Adviser: 7 Best Medical Alert Systems of 2024: Expert Tested & Reviewed

We narrowed down the best medical alert systems based on features, cost, and performance to help you find the right device.

"Some people might still associate medical alert systems with bulky, outdated buttons and the “I’ve fallen and I can’t get up!” slogan from nightly infomercials. Fortunately, today’s medical alert devices are modern, discreet, and full of high-tech features, like voice recognition, step tracking, and health vitals monitoring. And most importantly, a 24/7 connection to a monitoring center.

These devices are valuable safety tools for older adults, people at risk of falling, and anyone living alone.

Our Reviews Team researched and tested the top medical alert systems on the market to help you make an informed decision for yourself or your loved one. Let’s take a look at our picks for the best medical alert systems in 2024."

Check out the following link from the NCOA Adviser.

Essential Technology to Have During Natural Disasters

"Free apps and affordable gadgets can help before and after extreme weather."

"Given the frequency and intensity of natural disasters these days, chances are it’s a case of when — not if — extreme weather will affect your life.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) says emergency preparedness is critical to help protect your family, your home and your belongings from a myriad of threats, such as wildfires, drought, floods, hurricanes and tornadoes."

“We encourage everyone to be prepared year-round for any disaster, hazard or climate event,” says Jaclyn Rothenberg, FEMA’s director of public affairs. “Know what disasters and hazards could affect your area, how to get emergency alerts and where to go if you and your family need to evacuate.” Rothenberg says this requires having an evacuation plan and practicing it often.

"Technology can play an essential role in emergency preparedness with helpful apps and gadgets to get you through a natural disaster."

For more information, check the website for this 2022 article from AARP.

How Technology Can Positively Affect A Senior's Mental Health

"The golden years of life should be filled with happiness, connection, and the opportunity to explore new horizons. For seniors and their loved ones, technology has emerged as a valuable ally, enriching these years in ways we might not have imagined a few decades ago. In this article, we will delve into the transformative power of technology, focusing on three key aspects: long-distance connections, the health benefits it brings, and the power of lifelong learning. Each of these elements contributes to the mental well-being of seniors, making their journey through life's later stages not just manageable but truly enjoyable."

Check out this article from Today's Caregiver for more information.

AARP - 5 Types of Tech Products to Help Loved Ones Age in Place

You don’t need a smart home to ensure comfort and safety

"Thanks to new technology, older adults can stay independent in their own homes with cherished possessions, established routines and the help of innovative products that make living easier."

Some solutions don’t require Wi-Fi connectivity, while others leverage smart technology to be compatible with other devices. Either way, these tools enable family caregivers who don’t live in the home to be an integral part of the day-to-day activities of an aging adult."

This AARP article addresses: Preferring home • Detecting falls • About alarm buttons • Managing medications • Keeping clean • Tracking without intruding • Sleeping comfortably

Technology for Seniors

A Guide to Useful Technology for Older Adults in 2024 -

"Aging in place is an attractive option for many older adults. And thanks to advances in technology, it's a safe and realistic option for the majority of Americans enjoying their golden years. Assistive devices, mobile apps, and medical alert systems can work together to keep you safe and independent in your home, even as your health needs change.

Below, we'll touch on some gadgets, apps, and services that can help seniors safely remain in the familiarity of their home for longer and connect with friends and family, even from afar. Of course, most of these digital devices require a good internet connection for them to work properly. So, we'll give you the rundown on your internet options as well."

This article from SeniorLiving.org provides a comprehensive view on the use of technology to support seniors so that they can age in place.

SeniorLiving.org is supported by commissions from providers listed on our site. Read our Editorial Guidelines

AARP Senior Planet - 2024 Annual Technology Review

We are excited to share with you the 2024 Annual Technology Review! Every year we reach out to Senior Planet's diverse community of participants, staff and volunteers and ask them a simple question: What's happening in tech that more people should know about?

Our community never fails to impress us with the cutting-edge finds and time-saving hacks they share, and this year is no exception. In this Technology Review, you’ll read about how to film better videos on your smartphone, the hottest new podcasts made by and for seniors, artificial intelligence and much more. Have a question about one of the recommendations? Call our free technology hotline (888-713-3495) for assistance!

Thank you for being a part of our Senior Planet community. Whether you've made a gift, participated in classes or volunteered, we wouldn't be here without you

5 Things You Need to Know Before Buying a Doorbell Camera

Smart video doorbells are convenient for home security, but do your homework

If you’re away from home much of the day, take trips often or can’t sprint to the door when you hear a knock, a doorbell camera can help you and your home stay safe.

Check out this article from AARP on what factors to consider when buying a smart video doorbell.

NOTE: Read the comments attached to the article. Several reviewers have disagreed with the article's comments on the connection to existing chimes.

AARP - 5 Ways Technology Can Make Life Easier for Caregivers of Dementia Patients

Wearables, smart homes and other solutions may help, though one size doesn’t fit all

Everyday technology that people use around the house — including doorbell cameras, smart speakers and wrist-worn trackers — can help those suffering from cognitive decline. The tech may ease the burden on caregivers, too.

“Every family caregiver’s number one priority is their loved one’s safety,” says Jennifer Reeder, director of educational and social services for the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America. “And this is where technology can play an important and helpful role, especially if the caregiver and their family member who is living with dementia don’t reside in the same home.”

No solution works for all Alzheimer’s patients and their caregivers.

“Dementia-related illnesses affect everyone differently,” Reeder says.

This article from AARP helps to explain the ways that technology can be useful when caring for patients with dementia.

AARP - Caregiver's Guide to Smart Home Technology

Technology today can offer caregivers oversight into the lives of aging loved ones without being intrusive. The devices that can help put together the big picture of a loved one’s health and well-being aren’t a substitute for interaction. But they can help an older adult remain independent longer.

AARP - Ride-Hailing App Adds Feature for Caregivers

Uber app will let caregivers be part of three-way talk with driver, help bill insurer if covered.

Caregivers face an especially rough road when navigating ride-hailing services designed for able-bodied people familiar with technology.

Organizing a Lyft or Uber ride on somebody else’s behalf requires communicating with the driver through your app and keeping in touch with the passenger separately. Getting insurance to cover those costs can also be a bumpy ride.

This AARP article explains how new technology can help caregivers when using ride-hailing transportation for their care recipients.

AARP - Quiz: Do You Know How Technology Can Help You Care for a Loved One?

Tech won’t solve all problems, but it can take some pressure off you

"If you’re an older adult, smart homes may seem like a lot of hype — or best left to those more comfortable with technology.

But if you’re one of the 9 in 10 people ages 50 to 80 who say they want to stay in their homes as long as possible, innovations available today can help you remain independent, especially if you live alone. And that tech can help your family keep tabs on your safety without being intrusive. Here’s a quiz to show you what today’s tech can do for you and your family."

This article from AARP illustrates many of the ways that technology can assist in the process of caregiving.

Does Medicare cover medical alert systems?

"According to the National Poll on Healthy Aging, which surveyed adults from ages 50 to 80, 88% responded that it was important to remain in their homes as long as possible. For older Americans to age in place well, technology can be useful, especially medical alert systems."

“These devices allow those who have fallen or have an emergency to contact someone for assistance,” says Jen Teague, Director for Health Coverage and Benefits at the National Council on Aging. “Ultimately, they help an individual maintain independence.”

"Medical alert devices have come a long way since the 1980s Lifecall ads that featured an older woman on the ground saying, “I’ve fallen and I can’t get up.” Today’s medical alert options range from in-home and on-the-go systems to watches and other wearables."

A May 1, 2024, article in the Aging Well section of Fortune Well magazine talks about the medical alert options currently available and answers the question regarding Medicare or Medicaid coverage. Use the following link: