An alert button, also known as the emergency button or help button, is your constant contact with the medical alert company. Simply press the button in the event of an emergency and the button will send a signal to the base station to initiate a call to the medical alert call center. Depending on the medical alert service you choose, the alert button is available in several designs.

Choosing the Style of Your Alert Button

Bay Alarm Medical Alert Button Example

There are three types of alert buttons available at most medical alert service companies: the pendant, the wristband, and the belt clip. The types and styles available will depend on the medical alert company you choose.

Since alert buttons are to be worn at all times, most buttons are waterproof, so you easily bathe while wearing your alert button. The pendant alert button is worn around the neck while the wristband is worn just like a watch. If you decide to use the belt clip alert button, remember to wear it every day. You can choose from the available designs and styles offered through your company. Some alert buttons are discreet and resemble fitness trackers more than emergency systems.

Possible Additional Features

Additional features may cost more and may not be available with every medical alert service, but you may like the convenience they provide. Some buttons also feature a fall detection button. This button will automatically send the signal to the base station to contact the call center. The call center operator will automatically contact emergency services on your behalf.

Some companies provide two-way communication through your alert button for an extra cost. With this option, you can speak directly with the call center operator instead of through the base station speakerphone. You may like this option better if you tend to garden frequently or use the basement for laundry and other chores.

GPS is another optional feature you may want to consider. If you are an active senior or travel a great deal, a GPS alert button can notify the medical alert service to your exact location. Combined with two-way communication, you’ll feel as if you always have help with you. Some companies rely solely on the completely mobile alert button and no longer require a base station to operate.

Protecting Your Family

With most medical alert companies, you can order additional alert buttons for an extra cost. Some companies provide free monitoring for your spouse after you purchase the alert button. Monitoring of additional family members may cost extra. The alert buttons will use the same base station in your home.

Staying Within Range

The alert button range will vary depending on the medical alert service you choose, however most alert buttons emit a signal 800 to 1000 feet away from the base station. If the call center technician cannot hear you from the base station speaker phone, the operator will automatically contact emergency services for you.

Changing the Battery

The battery life for your alert button can last for years since it is only used in emergencies, although many companies recommend you test the battery either weekly or monthly. Most companies will replace the battery at no charge.

The battery within your base station can typically last 24 to 48 hours when unplugged or without power, depending on the manufacturer.