AARP medical alert systems are a trusted choice for seniors who desire safety and independence. AARP is well known for offering access to healthcare services, insurance coverage, and special discounts, including collaborations with selected providers of emergency response solutions.
Though AARP does not manufacture or retail direct medical alert devices, it collaborates with established businesses in providing discounted in-home and mobile medical alert systems. These devices include medical alert necklaces, bracelets, and advanced fall detection, giving seniors safe access to immediate emergency assistance if needed. It is important to understand the fees, benefits, and potential drawbacks of such systems before making a decision.
Does AARP Cover Medical Alert Systems?
AARP doesn’t cover medical alert systems by paying for them in full but negotiates member discounts. They are applicable on specific providers with 24/7 monitoring services, GPS monitoring, and the ability to detect falls.
Medical alert systems are not covered under regular Part A or Part B Medicare, but medical alert systems are included as a benefit for some Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans. Medicaid coverage varies from state to state, with some states covering partial costs for eligible seniors on a financial or medical basis.
Seniors who require a medical alert system but are concerned about expense should inquire about alternatives such as long-term care insurance, veterans’ benefits, or state programs that provide aid. Such programs can reimburse some or all of the expense of purchasing and maintaining a device.
Pros and Cons of AARP Medical Alert Systems
AARP-labeled medical alert systems are reassuring but not without constraint.
Pros
One of the biggest advantages of choosing an AARP medical alert system is to have an exclusive discount made available to members. The equipment made available in these arrangements provides up to 24/7 emergency response, water-resistant emergency buttons, and GPS-enabled mobile units for those who tend to be on the go.
But another benefit is the absence of long-term commitments. Some medical alert providers require their users to sign multi-year contracts, but AARP-affiliated organizations have month-to-month plans, which are convenient without tying up capital.
For individuals concerned about falls, AARP fall detection can be an added feature. AARP fall detection automatically detects a fall and calls emergency responders, even if the individual cannot press the emergency button.
Cons
Even with discounts, AARP members do not fully cover these devices, with equipment and monthly monitoring fees to be paid by them. Fees vary based on the carrier, and additional features like fall detection and GPS tracking increase fees.
One disadvantage is the limited provider selection. AARP partners with only select companies, meaning members may not always receive the best rates or most up-to-date technology compared to non-AARP providers.
Finally, AARP medical alert systems are higher in price compared to some competitors. While discounts reduce the fee, other companies offer similar products at a lesser cost, so it is prudent to shop around before signing.
How Much Does an AARP Medical Alert System Cost?
AARP medical alert systems vary in price based on the features, the company, and whether or not fall detection or GPS tracking services are included.
- Basic home-based systems cost between $20 and $30 monthly. These systems have access via a cellular or landline network and include an emergency feature that calls into a monitoring center.
- Cellular GPS-enabled systems cost between $35 and $50 a month for protection outside the home. They use cellular networks to provide location tracking, making them appropriate for active elderly or frequent travelers.
- Fall detection is an additional feature that is available for an extra $5 to $10 monthly. It is suitable for individuals who are at high risk of falling since it will detect the accident even if the user cannot push the emergency button.
There are fees associated with activation or equipment in some carriers, while others give devices for free initial cost. Pricematch among a number of companies is required to ascertain the least expense.
Choosing the Best AARP Medical Alert System
Selecting the right AARP medical alert system depends on individual needs, lifestyle, and budget. Seniors who primarily stay at home can be accommodated by an in-home system, and those who venture out on a regular basis will need a mobile GPS-enabled device.
For those who are at risk of falling, AARP fall detection can provide added protection by sending an automatic alert to emergency services if a fall is detected. Some devices also feature caregiver tracking so that family members can remotely monitor their loved one’s status and location.
Battery life, ease of use, and customer service quality are also important factors. In some systems, charging must be done often, while others can last for months on a single battery. In addition, customer reviews can be read to determine how reliable and responsive a company’s emergency monitoring service is.
Are There Better Alternatives to AARP Medical Alert Systems?
While AARP-affiliated medical alert systems are reduced in price, they may not always be the cheapest or most feature-rich options. Some other brands offer comparable services at lower costs, along with additional benefits such as free equipment, lifetime warranties, or no activation fees.
There are other companies like Medical Guardian, LifeFone, Bay Alarm Medical, and MobileHelp that are also trustworthy and budget-friendly. These organizations offer different medical alert necklaces, bracelets, and mobile GPS devices, and therefore are a suitable alternative to AARP-affiliated services.
Before purchasing a medical alert system, it’s advisable to compare companies on the basis of cost, features, and client satisfaction ratings. Some brands also offer free trials, which allow users to test the device before subscribing.
Final Thoughts
AARP medical alert systems offer a good safety net for the elderly, but they are not one size fits all. Although AARP’s affiliations have discounted rates, the fees, features, and choice of providers might not always be the best available.
Seniors must thoroughly assess their budget, lifestyle, and health needs before choosing a system. Seniors requiring fall detection, GPS location, or caregiver monitoring must consider a number of options to find the best value for their money.
A comparison of AARP-branded services to independent brands and research into other medical alert companies can give confidence that the selected system is the most well-balanced between cost, reliability, and ease.
Category: Trending gossip