Nowadays, home security systems come with many bells and whistles — smart home automation, mobile app control, and next-level surveillance. But older adults care about their safety and peace of mind. Caregivers are juggling several concerns, including flexibility, affordability, easy-to-use equipment, and more. After looking at our best home security systems, we narrowed down the best solutions that older adults and their caregivers will both love.
 SimpliSafe Security |  Abode Security | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Pro monitoring starts at | $14.99//mo. | $19.99/mo. | $45.99/mo. | $29.99/mo. | $20/mo. |
Installation type | DIY or Professional | DIY | Professional | Professional | DIY |
Minimum contract length | No contract required | No contract required | 12 months | 42 months | No contract required |
Smart home compatible | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
BBB rating | A+ | A | A+ | D | A+ |
What is the best home security package for you?
Use our Package Finder to find the right package based on your home security needs!
Best DIY security: SimpliSafe
Contract-free professional monitoring is available for $15 per month for police dispatch, fire, and medical dispatching. If a sensor is triggered or the panic button is pressed, SimpliSafe will alert emergency responders.
SimpliSafe keeps it simple with a video doorbell and security camera that works indoors and outdoors if you’re interested in surveillance. Mobile app and voice assistant compatibility are also available.
- Best overall DIY security system
Our take on SimpliSafe Home Security:
SimpliSafe Home Security is our top pick for inexpensive monitoring, durable equipment, and reliable services that simplify home security. You’ll have all the right devices and features to give you peace of mind — even when the unexpected happens.
Pros
- Inexpensive professional monitoring
- Wireless equipment
- Cellular monitoring
Cons
- Mobile alerts not available in the basic monitoring plan
- No selection of smart home devices
- Smart home capabilities not available in the basic monitoring plan
Best traditional home security: ADT
But one of the perks of ADT is its commitment to personal safety and security. ADT also offers in-home and on-the-go medical alerts for seniors starting at $30 per month. We like that ADT’s monitoring professionals are senior-sensitivity trained to best help older adults.
- Best home security for industry experience
Our Take on ADT Home Security
ADT Home Security is a well-known name in the home security industry. It offers traditional security that requires professional installation and monitoring at a steep price.
Pros
- 6-month money-back guarantee
- $500 theft protection guarantee
- High-quality equipment
Cons
- Must pay for an extended warranty
- Lengthy contracts
- More expensive than competitors
Best surveillance: Vivint
But Vivint has some of the best cameras that are easy to use. Here are a few of our favorite features that will give both caregivers and older adults peace of mind.
• Smart Deter to alarm if someone lingers too long
• Smart Drive to securely store all footage on the cloud
• Package and person detection
• Continuous video recording
Vivint has many other surveillance features and industry-leading technical specifications. Vivint has an app that older adults can use to see footage and zoom in, or share footage with caregivers for peace of mind. If there’s an emergency, professional monitoring is included in each package.
- Best smart home security
Our Take on Vivint Home Security
Vivint is our top choice for smart home security with an extensive line of equipment filled with smart features. The control panel also doubles as a smart hub. The only downside is that Vivint requires a long-term contract if you finance the equipment. Professional monitoring and installation are also required.
Pros
- Smart Hub to connect and control smart home and security devices
- Extensive smart features for security equipment including package detection and Smart Deter
- Wide range of security and smart home equipment
Cons
- Contract required for service and financed equipment.
- Professional monitoring and installation required
- Expensive equipment compared to other providers
Best smart home: Abode
The hub also has top security essentials for your loved one’s safety, including a built-in camera, siren, and motion sensor. It also includes person detection to help reduce false alarms. It’s easy to install, but if it’s not quite what you’re looking for, Abode offers a 30-day money-back guarantee.
- Best smart home security
Our Take on Vivint Home Security
Vivint is our top choice for smart home security with an extensive line of equipment filled with smart features. The control panel also doubles as a smart hub. The only downside is that Vivint requires a long-term contract if you finance the equipment. Professional monitoring and installation are also required.
Pros
- Smart Hub to connect and control smart home and security devices
- Extensive smart features for security equipment including package detection and Smart Deter
- Wide range of security and smart home equipment
Cons
- Contract required for service and financed equipment.
- Professional monitoring and installation required
- Expensive equipment compared to other providers
Senior Home Security Factors to Consider
- Contracts: Committing to a home security contract can be risky for seniors. Living conditions or your senior’s security needs may change. Unfortunately, security contracts lock-in costs, services, and equipment for a set period of time. You can be hit with hefty cancellation fees if you do try and get out of your agreement.
- DIY home security: If you’re leaning towards a DIY security provider that doesn’t require a contract, be sure to factor in the cost of equipment upfront, which can be costly. But, you’ll be able to pack-up your equipment and reinstall it at your new home without installation or cancellation fees. You’ll also have the flexibility to only buy the equipment you need and add on later.
- Installation: Some providers require professional installation that could cost $100 on average. When professional technicians set-up your equipment, they’ll also show your loved one how to use the equipment so they’re comfortable. On the other hand, DIY installation is free but requires someone in your family to install the equipment correctly. Many seniors choose professional installation for in-person help and to ensure their system is installed correctly. Keep in mind that some DIY providers that offer self-installation also offer optional professional installation.
- Customer service: Look for a home security provider with plenty of customer and technical service options and availability for your loved one to reach out whenever they need help. Some providers have 24/7 customer service phone numbers, while others have normal business hours for availability. Some technical support is included in the overall cost, while others cost extra for in-home appointments. You should also read customer service reviews to help determine the provider’s service satisfaction and common concerns.
FAQs: Home security for elders
Yes, seniors can get home security systems for their rental homes. We recommend a DIY security solution to easy self-install it without drilling and wires. It’s also easy to pack up and reinstall if you move.
Yes, you can have a trusted caregiver install your DIY security system. If your caregiver doesn’t feel comfortable, consider professional installation options for hassle-free set-up and an in-person tutorial.
It’s best to check with your home security provider for any special senior discounts and offers.
The cost of a security system varies. Most basic systems cost at least $100 and professional monitoring could cost as little as $8/mo.
Check with your security provider to see if your medical alert can connect to your security system and smartphone. If not, ask your provider what senior equipment they offer for your safety and security.
Medical alerts and security systems are both designed for your protection and safety, but they have different functions. Your use of a medical alert and security system depends on your needs, but we recommend both.