Fall Detection FAQ’s


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Updated: October 20, 2022

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Does Medicaid pay for Life Alert?

There are four Medicaid programs that may cover fall detection devices. These programs are Home and Community Based Services, Consumer Directed Services, Personal Attendant Programs, and Money Follows The Person. These programs can vary from state to state so to answer the question “Does Medicaid pay for Life Alert,” will take a bit of research on your part.

Do you need a landline for Life Alert?

While many medical alert devices do require a landline, Life Alert offers products that can also connect using cellular technology. Some of their mobile device options can work both in and outside of the home, as long as you have good cell coverage in your area.

What is fall detection?

Fall detection technology can sense when you’ve fallen and sends a notification to an emergency response system or directly to emergency responders. Fall detectors use accelerometer and gyroscope technology to sense abnormal movements that could be caused by a fall.

Does fall detection work?

While fall detection devices are not 100 percent accurate, they do save lives every day. This is from automatic fall detectors as well as devices with a manual alert button that you must press after a fall. Life Alert advertises that they save a life every 11 minutes.

Can you get Life Alert for free?

There are a few things to consider when looking at Life Alert costs. Life Alert has activation costs and monthly membership fees. While the product itself is not free, you may get Life Alert for free or for a reduced cost with long-term care insurance plans and some Medicare Advantage plans.

Does Medicare pay for a Life Alert system?

Medicare parts A and B will not pay for fall detection devices or PERS systems like Life Alert. However, Medicare part C and other supplemental plans may pay for Life Alert. However, not all private or supplemental insurance plans cover Life Alert.

What is the best medical alert system for the elderly?

The best medical alert system for you will depend on your personal circumstances. When choosing a medical alert system, you’ll need to look at the quality and effectiveness of the device, as well as the specific features that your loved one needs. Some devices provide automatic fall detection and GPS tracking in addition to an alert button.

What is the cheapest medical alert system?

The costs for medical alert systems fluctuate over the time, and there are many affordable options. While Life Alert is one of the most well-known medical alert devices, it is actually more expensive than most medical alert systems on the market.

What is fall detection on the Apple Watch?

Apple has added a fall detection feature to their watches, starting with the series 4. The fall detection feature is automatically turned on for all users over the age of 55. When the watch detects abnormal movement that could indicate a fall, a notification will pop up. Users can dismiss the notification if it was a false alarm, but otherwise, the Apple Watch will call the appropriate first responders depending on your location.

Can you wear Life Alert in the shower?

All Life Alert devices are waterproof, so they won’t sustain any water damage and can be used in the shower.