Most of us picture the old pendant commercial — "I've fallen and I can't get up." The modern version is better: watches and pendants that can sense a fall and call for help on their own, even if the wearer can't press a button. This guide compares them plainly, from a caregiver's point of view.
The best device is the one that gets worn every day — in the shower, to bed, and out the door. Pick the category that matches the routine, then compare within it.
Monitored pendants and watches that can place a call automatically after a fall is sensed.
For wearers who refuse a "medical pendant" but will wear a watch — including options with no monitoring company at all.
One-time-purchase devices that call 911 or family directly. No monitoring centre, no subscription — know the trade-offs.
The seven questions to answer before you buy, including the ones sales reps hope you won't ask.
Four starting points that cover most families. Full reasoning is on the category pages.
Best all-round monitoredOne small pendant that works at home and away, with two-way talk, GPS location, and a caregiver tracking option. Automatic fall detection is an add-on. No long-term contract; plans are month-to-month.
Simple, from Best Buy's LivelyA single-button mobile alert with GPS and an Urgent Response centre. Fall Detection is an add-on to either plan. Family can follow along in the Lively Link app. Sold with the Jitterbug phones under the same service.
Smallest monitored pendantMedical Guardian's smallest mobile device: GPS and Wi-Fi location, step counter, up to 5 days of battery, worn on a lanyard or belt clip. Fall detection is available as an add-on pendant/plan option at activation.
Best no-monthly-feeNo monitoring company and no monthly bill. The pendant talks directly to 911 over 4G, and its fall detection can place that call automatically. Water-resistant, with lanyard and belt clip.
