What Sets GreatCall Apart?
If you’ve been researching medical alert systems, you might be asking, “Why not just get a cell phone?” After all, most of today’s phones can do all of the things that medical alerts can do (and then some). On the other hand, older adults are often hesitant to make use of today’s cellphones: They’re small, hard to read, and confusing to operate for non-digital natives.
Enter GreatCall, a company that specializes in bringing modern communication solutions to older adults. Their specially designed devices offer seniors 21st-century technology in a way that’s easy to use and understand. Once you pick the mobile device that’s right for you, you also can select a monitoring/service package that best suits your needs.
Pros
- Competitive starting price for mobile medical alert device with GPS tracking
- Mobile phones eliminate the need to worry about landline connections altogether
- Flip phones and smartphones available
Cons
- No in-home landline options
- Mobile pendant is too large to wear on the wrist
- Must pay device fees up front
GreatCall Medical Devices
Our Take
For folks who aren’t interested in getting a mobile phone – but still want modern technology like GPS tracking and on-the-go mobile coverage – GreatCall’s Lively Mobile Plus package is a great option. It’s centered around the water resistant Lively Plus mobile device with GPS tracking, which allows on-the-go seniors to have push-button assistance whenever they’re anywhere that cellular coverage can reach.
Purchase the device for $49.99; after that, 24/7 service is $24.99 – $39.99 per month. Higher-tier plans include fall detection, the ability to speak directly with a nurse or doctor on-demand, and the GreatCall Link mobile app, which updates family members if you call for emergency service.
Package Features
- 24/7 assistance
- Cellular connection
- GPS location tracking
- Fall detection option
Our Take
The Jitterbug Flip is a senior-friendly mobile phone that offers the core functionality of a personal medical alert along with all of the other benefits of a basic cell phone. It has large, easy-to-read buttons, a bright screen, a speaker that can go much louder than standard earpieces, and a simple menu. You can call or text your family and friends, and there’s also a built-in 5Star instant help button for reaching GreatCall’s assistance professionals.
The Jitterbug costs $99.99 and service costs $19.99 – $34.99/month, depending on the Health & Safety Plan you choose. Higher tier plans include perks like device replacement, GreatCall Link mobile app access for family members, and assistance from a personal operator who can help you with non-emergency tasks like finding addresses or looking up phone numbers.
Package Features
- 24/7 monitoring
- Cellular connectivity
- Calling and texting
- Higher-tier service plans for advanced assistance
Our Take
The GreatCall Jitterbug Smart2 phone is a great choice for those who prefer smartphone features like email, map directions and more. You’ll be able to stay in touch with family and friends as well as have access to 24/7 assistance. Like the Jitterbug Flip, you’ll only have to press the 5Star Response button to connect with an agent. Additional features of the Jitterbug Smart2 include a large 5.5 inch screen, a built-in camera, voice typing and more.
Like the Jitterbug Flip, you’ll be able to choose a Health & Safety Package with features that best suits your needs, medication reminder messages, access to Urgent Care, the GreatCall Link app and more. You can purchase the Jitterbug Smart2 for $149.99 and have access to 24/7 assistance for as little as $19.99/mo.
Package Features
- 24/7 monitoring
- Calling and texting
- Higher-tier service plans for advanced assistance
GreatCall Equipment and Features
Lively Mobile Plus Device
With the Lively Mobile Plus Device, you’ll be able to travel anywhere and still get help whenever you need it. The device is worn around the neck and is waterproof so you can keep it on while showering. If you’re out and need help, the Lively Mobile Plus device has built-in GPS functionality so you can easily be located.
Jitterbug Flip Phone
The Jitterbug Flip Phone is double-fold in its benefits – you can reach out to friends and family while also have easy access to support if you need it. At the touch of the 5Star Response button, an agent will connect with you. Large buttons, a bright screen and powerful speaker make this device easy to use for your communication needs.
Jitterbug Smart2 Phone
Get smartphone functionality with the Jitterbug Smart2 phone that will also connect you to the support you need. You can voice type your text messages, access email, map directions, take pictures and more with the Jitterbug Smart2. A simple 5Star Response button is also available in the event of emergencies.
GreatCall Mobile App
GreatCall Link’s app is free for caregivers to check up on your loved ones and get instant alerts when an emergency or suspicious activity has been detected. The GreatCall Link app also lets you know when 5Star has been called. You can check to see if your loved one has upcoming doctor’s appointments, and track their activity to know when they were at home or on the go. You’ll also be able to check their location, check the GreatCall device location to know if it’s been left at home. GreatCall also get support from other caregivers and experts.
GreatCall Trial Period
GreatCall has a 30-day trial period to try the system and services risk-free. If you’re not satisfied, you’ll receive a refund on the activation fee, first month’s service and the GreatCall equipment cost. You’ll also get a refund on taxes, but all equipment must be in ‘like new’ condition for a refund during the 30 day period.
GreatCall Warranties
GreatCall offers a 1-year warranty on their devices and rechargeable batteries. The warranty doesn’t cover normal wear and tear, scratches or defects from misusing equipment. It’s important to note that the equipment warranty is not valid if the equipment has been damaged from weather conditions, water or theft. And the batteries are only covered if they fall below 80 percent or leak within the first year.
Compare GreatCall Packages
Device Cost | $49.99 | $99.99 | $149.99 |
|---|---|---|---|
Service Cost | $24.99-$39.99/mo. | $19.99-$34.99/mo. | $19.99-$34.99/mo. |
GPS location tracking | Yes | No | Yes |
Fall detection option | Yes | No | No |
24/7 assistance | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Frequently Asked Questions about GreatCall
GreatCall is a good medical alert system provider for older adults who are more technically inclined. The provider specializes in mobile medical alert options so you can have access to assistance whether you’re at home or on the go. If you’re generally more active and run errands, have doctor’s appointments, travel or have other activities that you’re a part of, we would recommend GreatCall.
This will depend more-so on your comfortability with technical devices. If you currently have a phone and are not seeking to purchase another one soon, you may want to just consider the Live Mobile Device plus package which comes with wearable pendant. If, however, you are looking to purchase a new phone but still want access to emergency assistance, the Jitterbug Flip or Jitterbug Smart2 are better options.
Yes, GreatCall provides 24/7 assistance. By pressing the button on the Lively Mobile Plus device or the 5Star Response button on the Jitterbug Flip or Smart2, you’ll be connected with a 5Star agent who can assist. In some higher-tier health and safety plans, you can even speak to an actual doctor or nurse on-demand, or a non-emergency operator who can help you with non-medical tasks like finding phone numbers.
GreatCall Health & Safety packages are the service plans for what kind of monthly assistance you’d like to receive. There are three packages you can choose from: the Basic Package, Preferred Package or the Ultimate Package. Each one offers different features based on the GreatCall mobile device you choose. Features you’ll find with the Health & Safety Packages include 5Star Urgent Response, access to urgent care services, fall detection, product replacements, medication reminders and more.
No, you can cancel your GreatCall anytime without any cancellation fees.
Fall detection is optional and can be added if you’d like, but it is not included in basic services.
No, GreatCall’s urgent care service does not require a co-pay or insurance coverage for service.