Medical alert systems are potentially life-saving technologies that are tailor made for senior adults.
They typically involve wearable pendants, bracelets, and necklaces that when pressed, emit an emergency alert signal to a response control center or emergency contact.
Some systems come with GPS location features and fall sensors that can detect fall-like motions and automatically call for help. Not only are they important safety items for older users, but they can provide peace of mind for their caregivers and loved ones.
The question you may be asking, however, is how much do medical alert systems cost?
A number of factors apply, such as type, service options, and features, but an average monthly price usually lands between $30 and $90. This can be a lot or a little depending on whether a senior adult relies on a fixed income or has ample financial resources. To help guide your decision, let us share with you three important cost considerations when it comes to medical alert systems.
Contracts
It is important to try and avoid long-term contracts and large upfront service charges. Plenty of reputable medical alert companies structure billing on a month-to-month basis without locking seniors into expensive long-term arrangements. Large upfront charges may be difficult, if not impossible, to recoup if you are ultimately unsatisfied and move to a different company.
Cancellation Policies
We encourage you to look for companies that offer free trial periods so you can genuinely decide whether you like the medical alert product before buying it. If you do purchase the system, make sure you can cancel at any time without penalty.
Fees
Some companies offer low monthly prices, but attach fees to medical alert equipment, shipping, installation, activation, and repairs. Be aware of these schemes and ask a friend or adult child to review a pricing plan before signing anything.
Keep in mind that Medicare does not cover costs associated with medical alert systems, although Medicaid does cover certain costs depending on where you live. Long-term care insurance providers might reimburse you for medical alert expenses depending on your policy, and the Internal Revenue Service allows for some related expenses to be deducted from annual tax filings.
These are just a few cost considerations when it comes to medical alert systems. If this article raises more questions than it answers for you, we encourage you to contact our office. Do not wait to ask us your questions.
