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Medical Alert System Discounts for AARP Members
Since its establishment in 1958, the AARP has been providing older adults with numerous benefits and essential information. With a membership of 38 million people over the age of 50, it is one of the most prominent and influential lobbying organizations in the United States. AARP has leveraged this influence to advocate for various rights and protections for seniors.
While AARP recommends seniors use medical alert systems, it does not endorse any particular company. Instead, it encourages individuals to choose a system based on their unique needs. AARP members can often find discounts on these systems, so it’s advisable to compare providers to find those offering such savings.
Below are some medical alert system providers that may offer discounts to AARP members. We’ve reviewed each based on their features and services.
Bay Alarm Medical has been in the medical alert industry for nearly 70 years, offering a variety of solutions including in-home systems, mobile devices, and options for use on the road. Based in the USA, they offer 24/7 service in over 170 languages.
Their systems work with both landlines and wireless networks, with the wireless systems relying on AT&T’s 4G LTE network. Bay Alarm Medical’s devices feature long battery life, fall detection, and useful accessories like wall-mounted emergency buttons and lockboxes for spare keys. Some systems also include a Vial of Life, a kit that provides crucial medical information to first responders in an emergency.
New customers can try Bay Alarm Medical with a 30-day risk-free trial. While there is no specific AARP discount, they do offer free shipping on quarterly plans and an additional free month with annual subscriptions. Watch this video to learn more about their systems and features.
With over 25 years in the business, Medical Guardian is one of the largest medical alert providers in the U.S. They offer both in-home and mobile devices, including systems with medication reminders and activity tracking. All their systems include waterproof help buttons and fall detection options.
Their mobile devices, equipped with GPS technology, are particularly beneficial for those with dementia, as recommended by the Alzheimer’s Association. GPS allows caregivers to quickly locate loved ones in an emergency.
Medical Guardian’s discounts include a free month, free shipping, and a free lockbox with annual subscriptions. At the time of writing, it is unclear whether they offer AARP discounts, so it’s best to contact the company directly for current promotions.
GetSafe offers a unique, non-wearable medical alert system, differentiating itself from competitors. Instead of wearable devices, GetSafe uses wall-mounted buttons, which can be activated manually or through voice commands.
This system is ideal for seniors who are reluctant to wear a traditional alert button due to the stigma. GetSafe’s discreet approach may make it easier for aging loved ones to integrate the system into their daily lives.
GetSafe offers several plans, all with free shipping. As you move up through the package tiers, additional discounts are available.
Medical Alert by Connect America
For an affordable and reliable in-home emergency alert system, Medical Alert (medicalalert.com) is a strong option. Their systems are easy to install and use, with lightweight alert buttons and long-lasting batteries. For an additional $10 per month, automatic fall detection can be added.
Falls are a significant health risk for older adults, with deaths from falls rising 59% in the past decade, according to the National Safety Council. Medical Alert’s systems allow users to connect to an operator with the press of a button, who will then assess the situation and send help if needed.
These systems ensure help is always available, whether in an emergency or for routine check-ins with a caregiver.
Life Alert
Life Alert has been a well-known name in the medical alert industry since the 1980s, thanks to its memorable commercials. Their services start at $49.95 per month, with a three-year contract required. However, the contract can be canceled in cases of death or admittance to a nursing home.
If you’re looking for more flexibility in terms of pricing and contract length, you may want to explore other options mentioned in this guide.
AARP Member Discounts
As an AARP member, you can take advantage of various discounts, including those for medical alert systems. Since AARP does not endorse specific systems, it’s best to inquire directly with companies to find out if they offer member discounts.
How To Choose The Right Medical Alert System
Read our reviews of the top-rated medical alert systems for 2024. These recommendations are based on extensive testing and real-world evaluations.
Frequently Asked Questions About Medical Alert Systems
What is the best medical alert for seniors??
It depends on your requirements – you have to shop around to find the right fit for your needs, and use comparison reviews to judge the best for you.
Think about your or your loved one’s needs. Do you need the system to call for help, track the whereabouts of someone with memory problems, or detect falls?
Estimates show that one third of adults over the age of 65 fall at least once a year. Possibly more dangerous is the time spent after a fall if the person is unable to move.
Many alert systems now come with fall detection or offer upgrades to check on the user or alert responders when a fall happens. Some non-wearable systems have cameras, motion sensors, microphones, and even floor sensors.
See our Best Medical Alert Systems for 2020. At a Glance 2020’s Best Medical Alert Providers:
- Bay Alarm Medical
- MobileHelp
- Medical Alert
- GetSafe
Which medical alert system does AARP recommend?
AARP does not endorse any specific alert system. It does recommend the use of an alert system in general but an AARP membership does not cover the cost of any alert system. Some companies do offer discounts to AARP members, but this is not done by arrangement with AARP. Discount offers frequently change so check directly with your medical alert system provider to see if they offer an AARP discount.
Check our other cost-saving guides such as our review of Unmonitored Medical Alerts – No Monthly Fee options, and see our 3 Affordable Alternatives to Life Alert guide.
Does Medicare pay for life alert systems?
Medicare does not cover medical alert systems, but some insurance plans do. So if you have a Medicare Advantage plan, you should check to see if it covers medical alert systems. See our guide for more detail: Medical Alert System Discounts: Medicare/Medicaid and Group Discounts.
Does Costco sell medical alert systems?
Costco sells medical alert systems though its online stores, but not in its physical stores. The range of brands is very limited, but Costco does offer a discount. See our review for details – Costco Medical Alert Systems: A Buyers Guide.
Does Walmart Sell Life Alert?
Walmart sells several brands of medical alert systems including unmonitored, no-monthly fee systems (see our guide to Unmonitored Alert Systems). See our guide to the offerings in our article Walmart Medical Alert Systems: How Find the Best System From a Blizzard of Choices.