Understanding whether Medicare will help cover the cost of a medical alert system is crucial—especially for individuals on a fixed income. Unfortunately, the answer is less clear-cut than many consumers hope.

​

Traditional Medicare: What It Doesn’t Cover

​

Original Medicare (Parts A and B) does not consider medical alert systems to be “medical equipment,” which means they are not eligible for reimbursement or coverage. Medicare typically reserves benefits for medically necessary services, such as wheelchairs, hospital beds, or oxygen equipment. Devices like Life Alert, Medical Guardian, or Bay Alarm Medical do not qualify under this definition—even if recommended by a doctor.

​

Medicare Advantage Plans May Offer Help

​

The good news is that some Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans do offer coverage for medical alert devices as part of their additional benefits package. This inclusion can vary from plan to plan, even within the same insurance company. These benefits are often marketed as part of broader “wellness” services that aim to keep seniors living safely and independently at home.

​

For example, a 2024 Humana Advantage plan in certain regions may reimburse the cost of specific alert systems, depending on medical need and provider agreement. Other plans, including some from UnitedHealthcare and Aetna, may also include similar benefits.

​

How to Check Your Coverage

​

If you or a loved one is enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan, the first step is to contact the plan provider directly and ask:

​

• Do you offer coverage or reimbursement for personal emergency response systems (PERS)?
• If so, what brands/models are included?
• Are there any restrictions or prerequisites for receiving this benefit?

​

You can also ask your primary care provider or geriatrician about systems they've recommended for other patients. In some cases, they can provide medical documentation that increases the likelihood of insurance reimbursement.

​

Additional Funding Options

​

If Medicare doesn’t offer support, other funding sources may include:

​

• Medicaid (Home & Community-Based Services Waivers): Some states include PERS in their Medicaid-related senior support programs.
• Veterans Affairs (VA) Benefits: Qualifying veterans may be eligible through VA Aid & Attendance benefits.
• Local Senior Agencies: Some county or city programs provide discounts or subsidies for low-income seniors.

​

Ultimately, while original Medicare does not cover medical alert systems, those exploring Medicare Advantage or supplementary programs may find partial help—making it well worth your time to investigate.

While choosing the right device is important, making sure it’s used effectively can significantly improve safety outcomes. Below are expert-backed tips for integrating an in-home medical alert system smoothly into daily life.

​

Wear It, Always

​

The effectiveness of an alert pendant or wristband hinges entirely on one key factor: whether your loved one is actually wearing it. Encourage consistent wear during waking hours—even if they’re simply moving between rooms. This might take time to become a habit, particularly for seniors new to the technology. A short daily routine reminder, such as putting it on after brushing teeth or while getting dressed, can go a long way.

​

Place the Base Strategically

​

Where you place the base station matters. For landline systems, it should be centrally located in the home so that the signal reaches every important area—bedroom, kitchen, bathroom, and living space. For cellular-based systems, check coverage by performing a test call in different areas of the house. Some homes with thick walls or basement areas may experience weak signals in certain spots.

​

Test the System Monthly

​

Most providers recommend testing the system at least once a month. This involves pressing the help button and ensuring the call connects to the monitoring center. It's a good practice to label the testing date on a calendar or use an automated app reminder. Monthly tests help confirm the equipment is functioning and provides reassurance that help will truly come when needed.

​

Keep Emergency Contacts Updated

​

Monitoring services often come with customizable contact plans—like who to call when an alert is triggered. Ensure that the contact list is up to date and reflects current phone numbers and preferred order of notification (e.g., daughter first, then neighbor). Make updates promptly if someone moves or changes phone numbers.

​

Practice Role-Plays and Drills

​

Especially for seniors living alone, it can be helpful to run through "what if" scenarios together. What happens if they fall and hit their head? What if they feel chest pain but aren’t sure it’s serious? Going through situational drills helps them better understand when to use the alarm and gives families a clearer communication plan.

​

Pair It with Other Safety Tools

​

In-home systems work best as part of a larger safety plan. Installing grab bars in bathrooms, ensuring good lighting in all rooms, and removing tripping hazards like rugs or cords can complement the system’s protection. Medication organizers, smart thermostats, and digital pill reminders can further improve overall home safety.