Philips Lifeline has four main packages for all activity levels. The Lifeline pendant is the heart of all these systems. In the HomeSafe Standard package, you can wear the Lifeline as a bracelet or pendant and call for help with a single button. Each necklace and bracelet has two-way communication that lets you reach support wherever you are. These alert devices are all waterproof too, so you can take them in the shower, pool, or out in the rain.
Most medical alert systems consider fall detection a separate service, selling it as an add-on in a different pendant or wristband. Philips Lifeline’s fall detection, also called AutoAlert, comes included in several of its packages.
The Philips pendants use an accelerometer, a barometer, and specially designed algorithms to measure speed, height, and pressure to sense falls. If you take a sudden spill on the stairs, your Philips pendant will notice and allow you 30 seconds to get up on your own. If you’re unable to move or respond, a monitoring professional will contact you through the two-way communicator on the device. Falls are a serious threat to adults 65 and older. So while this feature can be expensive, it may be worth the investment.
The location technology in the Philips Lifeline system uses multiple methods of tracking and pinpointing so help can find you no matter where you are.
A-GPS: Also called “assisted GPS,” this technology uses a satellite network to pinpoint the device’s location. It’s the most common form of location technology used in medical alert systems and can be helpful in public places like malls or parks.
Wi-Fi: You’d be hard-pressed to find a place without Wi-Fi. That’s why Philips Lifeline added a feature that connects to nearby Wi-Fi hotspots like hotels, restaurants, or homes to help first responders find your location.
Location breadcrumbs: Unlike Hansel and Gretel, you won’t get lost in the woods with this tech. This feature takes ongoing snapshots of your location throughout the day to create a digital trail of where you’ve gone.
Two-way communication: If these other systems fail or cannot connect, the two-way intercom built into the device lets you speak to a Philips pro. These trained professionals will call for help from your friends, family, or first responders depending on your needs.
Audio beacon: This feature emits a loud siren to help assistance get to you faster. The audio beacon is especially useful if you’re stuck in a dark place or hidden from plain view.
In-home communicator: This feature sends a signal to the in-home communicator to contact help from Philips. You’d have to opt for one of the GoSafe units for this feature, though.
The medication dispenser is another monthly service from Philips Lifeline that is particularly helpful for caretakers or those living alone. You load up the small medication cups with your daily doses (morning, afternoon, and night), then add them to the dispenser. It can be beneficial for anyone who needs help remembering to frequently take medications. But at $59.95 per month, it’s an expensive way to remember your daily medications.
