Wellness

[World Traveler]

I know someone who is going to need some type of medical alert device when they get home from the hospital. During the day they will be alone, but in the evening/night there will be someone at the home. 

I have been looking online for various types: Philips Lifeline, Mobile Help, Medical Guardian, Medical Alert, Life Alert.

Of course, each of those have their positive reviews. I would like to hear from those of you who already are using one of these devices (even if it is a different company), and would appreciate your pros and cons.

I only know of one person who has one and they have to pay around $1500 a year on a three-year contract. Although they like the device, that seems really high to me. Perhaps the insurance company pays for it. I didn't ask.

Any comments you might have that I could pass on to this individual in order to help them make a decision would be greatly appreciated. 

[Kachina624]

@World Traveler.  You might check the one HSN sells.  It automatically dials 911 even if you're outside away from home.  You don't go through an operator, you go direct to 911.  There is no monthly fee.

[Havarti]

We have one here at the house that we got at HSN called 911 Help Now Plus Emergency Communicator for $99.00 + tax and no other fees.  If you press the button it will contact the closest 911 center. It will not contact family and it does not have GSP, so you need to be able to speak to tell them where you are.  It is good for a sense of safety for falls if you are alone, or if there is a break-in, but if you are alone & unconscious it will not know you fell or where you are.  You must be able to press the button and tell them where you are.  You can take it out & about or even travel with it because it always contacts the closest 911 center, it just doesn't tell them where you are.  I don't know if this meets your needs, but this is what we currently have at our house.

I hope they will allow the link to HSN: 

https://www.hsn.com/products/911-help-now-plus-emergency-communicator-with-alarm-and/9218064?query=9...

[World Traveler]

@Havarti  and @Kachina624 Thanks! I will do that. It would not have occurred to me to check on HSN. 

Oh, I just read your information more closely @Havarti . I will check with them when I get to the hospital today, but I think they want one that they can wear in the shower. Guess they could wait until the other family members get home in the evening to take a shower.

I'll go on HSN and print out the information for them.

Thanks!

[World Traveler]

The newest version of the 911 Help on HSN is the SmartGo 911, which you can take in the shower, for $100. I will print out the information and take it with me. @Havarti and @Kachina624 

[Mz iMac]

Does Medicare Pay for Medical Alert Systems?

Typically medical alert systems (or PERS) are not covered under .  Unfortunately they are not considered a “medical necessity” by Medicare. This is something we disagree with, as do many leaders in the medical alert industry.

Some Medicare Advantage Plans (Medicare Part C) cover medical alerts, but this will vary  and the state in which you live. If you have a Medicare Advantage plan, check with your provider to see if they pay for medical alert systems.

FULL ARTICLE:  copy/paste link--->theseniorlist.com/medical-alert-systems/medicare/

[Shelbelle]

We got Senior Safety for my Mom several years ago, it was a very good plan, no obligations. 

[MalteseMomma]

Alert 1

I have had them for many years and they are wonderful!

[meem120]

Ask the hospital a few days before discharge.  They were very helpful when I got one for my elderly mother.

[LonestarBabs]

We have the 5Star Response device from Greatcall. They make a water-resistent model, I believe. No contracts. Under $20/mo. Has worked great.