3 Best Medical Alert Watches in 2026: Tested and Reviewed

How we test the best medical alert watches

We began testing the best medical alert watches by researching the market. Which products are popular and why? Which companies have the best reviews — and are the reviews legitimate?

To put the watches through their paces, we recruited adults 60 and older to test them. We purchased the devices, and the testers unboxed them, giving us their unbiased feedback on how the units looked, how professional the operators were and how confident they would feel about relying on the watches during an emergency. We also asked testers to rank how easy it was to set up and charge watches.

In addition, we performed a series of lab-controlled tests assessing the following criteria, which survey respondents, focus group participants and aging experts told us were most important:

• Fall detection
• Call connection speed
• Audio clarity
• Operator professionalism
• GPS location tracking

For more details, you can see our medical alert system testing methodology page.

How to choose the best medical alert watches

The best medical alert watch for someone depends on that person’s specific health needs, says Kylie Meyer, an associate professor at the Case Western Reserve University Frances Payne Bolton School of Nursing in Cleveland.

For example, she says automatic fall detection would likely be a top consideration for an individual with a history of falls. In addition, GPS location services could be valuable for older adults with cognitive issues, like dementia, who may wander, Meyer adds. However, as with most medical alert features, these are only helpful if the watch is powered up and used as directed. So caregivers should make sure it’s fully charged and consistently worn. 

But how do you determine which model is right for you or your loved one? Based on our research, testing, survey results and feedback from focus group participants, if you’re shopping for a medical alert watch, the following features are most important to consider. 

User-friendly design and wearability

You or a loved one will be more likely to wear a medical alert watch if it’s easy to use every day. According to our test results, the most user-friendly watches can be set up quickly and have responsive screens and clear two-way speakers.

Another frequently overlooked quality is the wearability of the watch, says Cherie Macri, an occupational therapist and director at Masonicare, a not-for-profit provider of health care and retirement living for older adults in Connecticut. “If a device is uncomfortable or doesn’t align with someone’s preferences, it won’t be worn,” she notes. And if it isn’t worn, it doesn’t serve its purpose.

What’s user-friendly to one person may not be to another. For instance, challenges with eyesight and manual dexterity commonly affect the usability of a watch, Meyer adds. If someone has low vision, a large, bright watch face with bold lettering and high contrast is helpful. And a person who finds it difficult to fasten a buckle because of arthritis pain, may want to consider a watchband made of elastic or with Velcro or magnetic closures. 

So how do the watches on our list stack up? In general, they have a modern and sporty look — similar to most smartwatches on the market. Testers said the Medical Guardian MGMove, a relatively small model, is suitable for older adults who have thin wrists or prefer more delicate wearables. The LifeStation Sidekick Smart and LifeFone Safe Watch Active have slightly larger watch faces.

Connectivity

Monitoring center connectivity should be high on the checklist for anyone considering a medical alert watch, Macri says. These devices often rely on cellular networks, just like cellphones, to reach an operator when help is needed. If there’s no cellular service, there may be no connection. 

Reception can fluctuate in certain areas, though, such as when you're driving across town or in rural dead zones, places that have little to no signal. So check to make sure the device you choose uses a carrier that offers reliable service in your location. Most medical alert systems run on AT&T or Verizon cellular networks. You can make sure the signal is strong where you live by looking at AT&T or Verizon coverage maps.

Response time

If you ever need help, you’ll want to reach an operator as quickly as possible. Most medical alert watches we’ve tested have a short window of time to cancel a call after the help button is pressed. If the call isn't canceled, you'll be routed to a real person. Unlike an Apple Watch, which contacts emergency services directly when a fall is detected, the watches in this review connect users with monitoring center agents who can dispatch assistance. All watches included in this review have a response time of less than one minute, which we consider a passing performance.

GPS location

One of the advantages of using a mobile medical alert device like a watch is its GPS tracking. All watches in this list passed our GPS location tests, during which our lab team traveled to various places, pressed the help button to connect to a monitoring center and asked the agents who answered to confirm where the callers were.

Accurate GPS location can help older adults maintain their independence and confidence in doing things on their own. When they are wearing a medical alert device, they can walk to their local park, visit a neighbor down the street or do their usual shopping, knowing someone can find them if something were to happen.

Advanced devices, such as the Medical Guardian MGMove, offer GPS tracking for caregivers by displaying regularly updated location data via a smartphone app. These apps can store historical data. Several focus group members, particularly the caregivers, told us that GPS tracking provided peace of mind by allowing them to monitor family members who might wander. 

Automatic fall detection

Automatic fall detection is an optional feature that calls for help without the user having to press the help button. All watches in this review offer it for an additional $5 to $10 per month.

Macri, the occupational therapist, says fall detection isn’t always perfect, especially in watches. In addition, there are scenarios in which it may not work. Rick Douglass, a doctor of physical therapy and chief clinical officer of FYZICAL Therapy in Sarasota, Florida, says most systems detect a hard fall, which is identified by rapid acceleration, sudden deceleration and sometimes a period of inactivity afterward. “But softer or controlled movements, like sliding out of a chair or bed, might not trigger [a response],” he says.

Risk of triggering false alarms

Automatic fall detection can cause false alarms if the help button is accidentally pressed, the watch is dropped or when sudden arm movements or changes in posture are made. “These products are trustworthy, but I’d be prepared for a few false positives,” says Meyer, the associate nursing professor in Cleveland. 

Based on our testing, the watches in this review all have easy ways to cancel a false alarm, usually manually, by pressing a button on the display after a call is initiated. If the call does go through, the operator can simply be informed that it was a mistake.

The bottom line here: Opting for automatic fall detection adds a layer of protection when the user is unable to press a help button. For example, dehydration and certain medications (such as blood pressure pills) increases the risk of fainting, a situation where the person likely can’t request immediate assistance. 

For more information on this feature, see our review of the best medical alert systems with fall detection.

15 questions to ask before buying a medical alert system

1. Is it comfortable enough for daily wear? Pay attention to the fit and strap material — especially if you or your loved one has sensitive skin. A lightweight device you can use continuously is key.
2. Does the device look discreet? You or your loved one may be more likely to wear the device regularly if it looks inconspicuous. Ask whether there are color options or ways to customize the device's appearance, such as by adding decorative covers.
3. Is the device waterproof? It’s important to choose a device that still works when it’s wet, as falls can happen in the tub or shower.
4. How long does the battery last? Some wearable devices require daily charging, while others last several days. Check how often the device needs to be charged, how long it takes to recharge and if it has a low-battery alerts?
5. How does it stay connected? Ask if an at-home unit needs a landline or cellular connection and what happens if service goes out. If it relies on a cellular connection, ask what provider (like Verizon or AT&T) it uses and how to check signal strength in your area. 
6. Does it have automatic fall detection? Confirm whether the device can automatically identify when the user falls. Ask whether the company has data on the accuracy of its fall detection, or read Smart Picks reviews of the device you want to know about.
7. How does the company keep your data secure? Find out how the company collects, stores and shares your information. If the system uses GPS or cameras, ask who can see your data and if you can control access.
8. Who answers when you press the help button? Make sure the system offers 24/7 call center monitoring. Ask whether the company operates its own response center, what the average response time is and whether operators can communicate in your (or your caregiver’s) preferred language.
9. What customer support is available? Find out the company’s technical and customer support hours and how to contact them (email, phone, online form, etc.). Ensure that you can easily reach them for device setup, troubleshooting and repairs.
10. How are false alarms handled? Learn how to cancel an accidental alert triggered by unintentionally pressing the help button. Ask about any fees or penalties for false alarms.
11. How are family or caregivers notified of issues or emergencies? Ask whether the system can contact family members in emergencies. Is there a companion or caregiver app to help loved ones monitor alerts, battery status or the user’s location? If so, ask which features are included, whether they cost extra and who controls access.
12. What are the costs? Request a clear breakdown of all fees, including monthly charges, equipment costs and activation or membership fees. Do certain features, such as automatic fall detection or a companion app, cost extra? 
13. What is the cancellation policy? Understand whether the company charges any cancellation or equipment return fees. Is there a trial period or refund policy for unused service? 
14. Is there a long-term contract? Avoid any company requiring you to sign a long-term contract. Most reputable companies let you pay on a month-to-month basis. 
15. Is the company reputable? Read customer reviews, explore our Smart Picks coverage and check the Better Business Bureau for complaints. Look for repeated complaints about billing, equipment reliability or emergency response.

Does Medicare cover medical alert watches?

No, original Medicare (Part A and Part B) generally doesn’t cover medical alert watches. Some Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans might offer partial coverage. For example, William, a 50-year-old focus group participant in Missouri, says his mother was able to afford her device because of her Advantage plan. Check with your insurance provider to see if your plan covers a medical alert watch — or another device to help you age in place. For example, Medicare and Medicaid may cover other devices, like pulse oximeters and blood pressure monitors, as durable medical equipment.

Does insurance cover medical alert watches?

No, private insurance typically doesn’t cover medical alert watches, but it doesn’t hurt to call and ask. If it does offer coverage, you can ask how much and what documentation you’ll need to receive it.

TRICARE — health insurance for active-duty military members — also doesn’t cover medical alert watches. However, retired military members with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) may qualify for discounted or free devices. The VA requires you to first discuss with your health care provider whether you meet the criteria for coverage, which include living alone or being unable to use a cellphone.

How to save money on medical alert watches

You can save money on medical alert watches in a few ways.

• Pay annually for monitoring: Companies often offer discounts for annual subscriptions.
• Look for sales: Many medical alert companies have promotions, including around holidays.
• Use a Health Savings Account (HSA): If you have one of these tax-advantaged accounts, you may be able to use it for a medical alert watch. Many HSAs consider medical alert systems eligible purchases but check the terms of your account to verify.
• Use a Flexible Spending Account (FSA): In many cases, FSAs (another type of tax-advantaged account) also consider medical alert systems to be eligible purchases, but you may want to check your account’s terms first.
• Check state and local programs: You may qualify for a free or discounted device through a local aging or community agency, nonprofit or government program. For example, some states cover medical alert systems — also known as personal emergency response services — through certain programs, like Home and Community-Based Services. Check your state’s coverage to learn more.

Comparing the cost of the best medical alert watches

The best medical alert watches on this list have starting monthly costs between $47.95 and $50.95. Your monthly payments may vary if you opt for the fall detection service, which generally adds $5 to $10 per month. You can see a breakdown in the chart below.

Our experts

For each AARP Smart Picks review, we consult medical experts and industry professionals to gather valuable insights that help guide our recommendations. Featured experts in this article include:

• Kylie Meyer, an associate professor at the Case Western Reserve University Frances Payne Bolton School of Nursing in Cleveland, Ohio
• Cherie Macri, an occupational therapist, adjunct professor of occupational therapy at Quinnipiac University and director of EnCompass at Masonicare, a not-for-profit provider of health care and retirement living for older adults in Connecticut
• Rick Douglass, a doctor of physical therapy and chief clinical officer of FYZICAL Therapy in Sarasota, Florida

FAQs

Will medical alert watches work with iPhone and Android phones?

Some medical alert watches offer companion apps that are compatible with iPhone and Android devices. For example, the Medical Guardian MGMove works with the MyMedicalGuardian app, which lets caregivers check battery life, signal strength, location updates and activity information through their smartphones. App features and compatibility vary, so check the manufacturer’s requirements before purchasing. 

Does an Apple Watch have fall detection?

Yes, most Apple Watch models (Apple Watch SE or later, Apple Watch Series 4 or later or Apple Watch Ultra or later) can detect hard falls and automatically contact emergency services if the user is unresponsive. When a fall is detected, the watch displays an alert that lets the user request help or indicate they’re OK. Unlike a traditional monitored medical alert watch, which connects the user with a trained response agent, an Apple Watch contacts emergency services directly. 

How much does a medical alert watch cost?

The medical alert watches on our list cost between $47.95 and $50.95 per month for their lowest-priced plans. Automatic fall detection plans may cost an additional $5 to $10 monthly, depending on the provider. Some watches, including the Medical Guardian MGMove, may also have an upfront equipment fee. Compare the total cost, including optional features, before choosing a plan that suits your needs. 

Do medical alert watches need a smartphone to work? 

Not necessarily. Many medical alert watches have built-in cellular connectivity, allowing the user to contact a monitoring center without carrying a smartphone. However, certain features, such as caregiver apps or activity tracking, may require a compatible phone. Check the device’s requirements to see which features work independently.

Questions or feedback? Email us at AARPSmartPicks@aarp.org.

CORRECTION: This article incorrectly stated that the LifeFone Safe Watch Active has an app. While LifeFone does offer an app, it isn’t compatible with the Safe Watch Active. Kylie Meyer was also incorrectly identified as an assistant professor at Case Western University. She is in fact an associate professor. And while the MGMove watch charges a one-time fee at time of purchase, that fee is called an equipment fee, not an activation fee as previously stated.