Caregivers of older adults navigate a delicate balancing act: helping them feel more independent while keeping them safe. If you’re supporting an aging loved one, you likely already know that falls are the leading cause of hospitalizations among Canadian seniors. Evaluating options to improve and monitor senior safety can get overwhelming, so here’s an overview to help you move forward.
In this caregiver’s guide to finding the Canadian best medical alert system, you’ll learn:
- Why medical alert systems offer more trust and peace of mind for seniors and their caregivers
- Important differences in medical alert system features, like fall detection features or manual alert systems
- What features to consider and prioritize when shopping for a medical alert system
- Tips for talking with your loved one about safety, prevention, and deciding when to get a medical alert system
Feelings of worry are a responsibility every caregiver knows too well. You're not alone, and you shouldn't have to carry this alone. We're here to help you move forward with confidence.
Why medical alert systems give more confidence to every family member
Maybe you've noticed little things with your senior loved one that are starting to worry you – they take longer to pick up the phone or look unsteady getting up the stairs. Perhaps there's already been a close call that left you wondering what could happen next time if you're not there.
Medical alert systems offer something invaluable: the confidence of knowing that access to help is as simple as pressing a button. With your loved one wearing a discreet emergency alert device like a pendant or wearable, both of you can trust that professional help is there for them, day or night.
Faster emergency response when seconds count
In medical emergencies like a fall, stroke, or cardiac event, every second counts. Medical alert systems can connect your loved one to trained operators who can assess the situation and dispatch help. The best medical alert system providers in Canada measure response times in seconds because even a few seconds can make a critical difference in recovery and outcomes.
Supporting independence without compromising safety
Here's what your aging parent will value most in a medical alert system: if it actually helps them stay more independent for longer.
A medical alert system can help your loved one move more freely at home and outdoors without the need for constant supervision. The result? More confidence and less stress for your whole family.
Staying connected through caregiver apps
Some medical alert systems today include caregiver mobile apps that keep you informed without being intrusive to your loved one.
The TELUS Health Medical Alert Caregiver Mobile app lets you customize what mobile notifications to get – like when the emergency button is pressed, activity status, and location information. Your loved one has 24/7 access to call centre support, and you can receive timely notifications if something does happen.
Go about your day with confidence, knowing you have a round-the-clock system looking out for your loved one.
What is a medical alert system, and who should consider one?
A medical alert system, also called a personal emergency response system (PERS), is a wearable device that enables a quick call for help during an emergency. It typically includes a small pendant or device worn on the wrist or belt and a button that connects directly to a specialized call centre.
These senior safety systems are valuable for older adults who:
- Live alone or want to age in place
- Are at risk of falls or have balance issues
- Manage chronic conditions
- Are recovering from hospitalization
There's no specific age that determines when someone needs a medical alert system. The right time is when it helps both you and your loved one to sleep better at night, knowing that they have access to 24/7 support.
How medical alert systems work: fall detection vs. manual activation
Automatic fall detection feature
Fall detection technology uses sensors to monitor movement patterns and detect a fall.
With TELUS Health Medical Alert, if a fall is detected, the system connects your loved one to trained operators who can gather details and help coordinate next steps, including calling designated contacts and emergency responders.
The automatic fall detection feature can be lifesaving for seniors. Falls may render them unconscious, disoriented, or injured and potentially physically unable to press the call button. Automatically detecting a fall can get them help faster.
Manual medical alert systems
Manual systems require the wearer to press an emergency button when assistance is needed. These personal emergency response systems can also be pendants, wristbands, or carried in a pocket. They are more basic and lower cost, but may be sufficient for seniors who are generally mobile and cognitively sharp.
In-home medical alert devices vs. mobile GPS systems
In-home medical alert devices
In-home medical alert systems include a base station and a wearable device that work within a determined range. These devices use two-way communication via the base station and may be suitable for seniors who primarily stay home and are seeking lower-cost, home-based coverage.
The in-home system from TELUS Health Medical Alert can cover a home and outdoor zone—typically within 600 feet from the base station.
Mobile medical alert systems with GPS
Mobile medical alert systems work anywhere in Canada with cellular coverage and use GPS location tracking. With a button press or automatic fall detection alert, responders can detect your loved one's location and act accordingly. They're perfect for more active seniors and proactive caregivers.
The mobile TELUS Health Medical Alert system integrates with a caregiver app to provide important information like location updates and alerts.
The best medical alert system features we recommend
Simple use (and call cancellation): One-button functionality and straightforward installation reduce stress for everyone. Plus, having call cancellation helps avoid false alarms.
Long battery life: Battery life measured in days or weeks, with simple charging and low-battery warnings.
Caregiver app integration: Receive instant notifications, check activity status, and see location updates without hovering.
Canadian-based monitoring: Canadian monitoring centres understand our healthcare systems, geography, and emergency services, enabling faster, more accurate responses.
Comfortable to wear: Lightweight, discreet designs that don't look or feel like obvious medical equipment help to ensure consistent use.
Water-resistant design: Non-negotiable. Many slips and falls occur in bathrooms, so devices must be usable in the shower.
Clear two-way communication: Look for built-in speakerphones, hands-free functionality, and high-quality audio (this helps when hearing aids get misplaced).
How to choose the right medical alert system
Consider lifestyle: Homebodies do well with in-home systems; active seniors benefit from mobile GPS coverage.
Evaluate fall risk: A history of falls, balance issues, or cognitive changes may indicate the need for choosing a system with automatic fall detection.
Think about comfort: Involve your loved one in choosing the style so they feel more inclined to use their device.
Compare value, not just sticker price: Monthly fees for medical alert systems typically range from $35 to $70. Consider response times, monitoring quality, and features. Also, be sure to check if you qualify for loyalty or member association discounts.
What to expect from quality medical alert providers
Canada’s best medical alert providers offer fast response times (seconds, not minutes), professional and empathetic operators, accessible customer service with real humans, comprehensive setup support, and flexible options as needs change. Look for Canadian-based monitoring and customer service teams who understand our healthcare landscape.
Why families trust TELUS Health Medical Alert
As Canada's largest medical alert provider, TELUS Health Medical Alert delivers industry-leading response times with operators who answer calls within seconds.
Our innovative caregiver mobile app keeps families connected with timely alerts and location tracking. All monitoring centres and customer service are proudly Canadian-owned and operated.
TELUS Health offers flexible options for every lifestyle—in-home and mobile systems, fall detection feature and manual devices—plus loyalty discounts for existing TELUS home internet, TELUS Mobility, and Koodo customers.