How Can I Get a Life Alert Cost Reduced or Even Free?

Approximately 30,000 seniors die from a fall-related death each year. Combine that staggering statistic with the anticipated shortage of registered nurses, and you might be wondering: How can seniors protect themselves from injuries that become fatal or require long-term medical care? While it’s not always possible to prevent falls, even with home modifications or lifestyle changes, seeking prompt medical care may help prevent lengthy hospital stays and long-term complications. That’s why many elderly adults trust the performance of medical alert systems, also known as life alert systems.

The best medical alert systems provide constant monitoring day and night, so you always have convenient access to emergency care. Some life alert systems have a handy help button that notifies loved ones or medical professionals, so you can quickly request assistance when you need it. Others rely on automatic fall detection alerts that let operators know when a senior may be injured, even if the subscriber is unresponsive or cannot reach the help button.

Unfortunately, life alert systems often have ongoing subscription fees, plus installation, activation and shipping costs. These expenses can quickly put a strain on seniors’ budgets, so many elderly adults search for free monitoring devices. Finding a life alert system at no cost isn’t easy, but it’s possible. We’ve compiled several options below to help you narrow down your search for a complimentary medical alert system.

Some insurance providers cover the cost of life alert systems. Whether you qualify for a free device depends on numerous factors, including the type of coverage you have, your location and your income. Benefits might not be outlined in your subscriber portal or guide, so contact providers directly if you are unsure whether coverage is available.

Medicare typically doesn’t offer reimbursement or discounts for life alert devices, so you may want to contact Medicaid first if you have dual coverage. We’ve included information about each of these health insurance programs below so you can decide how to proceed during your quest for life alert system coverage.

Many elderly adults have Medicare Part A and Medicare Part B. Medicare Part A primarily covers major care, such as eligible stays in a nursing home or hospitalization costs. Medicare Part B focuses on one-time expenses or short-term treatments, such as doctor’s visits, blood tests or imaging scans. Unfortunately, neither of these plans typically cover life alert systems.

Here are some common questions you may have about Medicare coverage:

Medicaid has several options for seniors seeking help paying for life alert systems. You can apply for Medicaid assistance for life alert devices even if you do not qualify for reimbursement from Medicare.

Here are some questions you may have as a Medicaid recipient:

Elderly veterans may qualify for a complimentary life alert system from one of two providers. Approved devices have limited features when compared to other well-known medical alert system providers, but you may still find it beneficial to have one.

Here are some common questions about benefits for veterans:

Area Agencies on Aging (AAA) provides assistance for seniors across the nation. Reach out to your local Area Agency on Aging for help receiving a free life alert system. The agency can connect you with other agencies or inform you about grants and scholarships for seniors.

Many medical alert providers understand the budget restraints of elderly subscribers, so they partner with programs and organizations that offer discounts. You can learn more about these programs by contacting your preferred medical alert provider directly.

However, keep in mind that a free device may still have other fees. You may still have to pay for a monthly subscription, shipping, installation, activation or cancellation. Learn about all of these potential expenses before you accept a free device from a medical alert provider.

The right medical alert system can save your life, but high fees may deter you from getting the monitoring services that you need. Consider the suggestions above before you abandon your search for a medical alert system, as many companies connect seniors with free or reduced-price options.