Grabbing ideas and presenting them in a tangible form requires fast action. Mind maps are a great bridge between inspiration and illustration – the sheer volume of mind map software available on desktop PCs alone is testament to that.

Among the more interesting apps for mind mapping is Xmind. This is an open source project with a paid option for organizations and cross-platform support for popular desktop and mobile operating systems. Because it is open source, Xmind Ltd. the company behind Xmind, has made the code base is publicly available on GitHub, where anyone can go and raise issues or suggest code changes (in the form of pull requests) to the software.

Xmind launched in 2006 and since then has been used by over 100 million global users. We’ve spent some time using this tool, assessing it based on pricing, features, ease of use, the customer support provision, and how it compares with competing tools.

Xmind: Plans and pricing

Xmind comes in free and Pro flavors, with the free option offering limited functionality beyond the basic mind map creation environment.

You can buy an annual subscription for $59.99 a year, which works out at $4.99 a month. This has a 7-day money back guarantee. Alternatively, you can use the quarterly payment option of $19.99 every 3 months. Note that this does not come with a money-back offer, however.

Alternative packages are available, however – if you work in academia, it is $34.99 a year, while government departments, NGOs, and NPOs can get Xmind for $41.99 a year. Different pricing is available on request for enterprise and volume licensing.

The best way to use Xmind is to start off with the free version, but in this version, select features are inactive and any images or PDFs you export will display Xmind watermarks.

Xmind: Features

The software is available for Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS and iPad OS, and Android.

Xmind is geared toward the creation of non-linear documents, but if you need something with a more linear format, the application allows you to convert easily between outlines and mind maps.

What you get for free is pretty good: unlimited topics and maps, support for logic charts, brace maps, fishbones, timelines, and other map types, and a file cache. You also get to access the template library. Basic topic elements (notes, labels, stickers, summaries) are included, along with the outline feature, rich text styles, and smart color themes. You can also export your mind map to PNG and PDF. 

So while Xmind’s free version includes just basic tools, Xmind Pro includes more professional-grade features and functionality like the ability to create Gantt Charts and slide-based presentations, access to more export options, and increased control over the aesthetics of your files.

Xmind Pro users also enjoy the same abilities to create mind maps. However, instead of being able to manage tasks and goals with Outliner, Pro users can create business charts and Gantt Views, get support for brainstorming, switch into presentation mode, and export to a greater number of file types. Xmind Pro users get priority support, too.

Zen Mode is worth mentioning. It features a cleaner, more modern UI/UX. It makes the app’s main pane full screen, reducing menu options to shadows in the top-right corner. It is a really interesting way to mind map, and is completely distraction free.

(Xmind also offers Xmind AI, a web-based tool available with free and paid tiers, with Copilot enhancement. However, in our opinion it isn’t yet developed enough for a full review, and testing demonstrates that it is some way from being an adequate replacement for Xmind.)

Xmind: Ease of use

Upon loading up Xmind you need to create an account or sign in using an existing Apple or Google. After a couple of clicks, you’ll see the option to create a new mind map from scratch, or select one from the template library. These are fully-populated mind maps (and other diagram types) that you can edit, but as they feature useful information, they’re also worth spending some time viewing.

Running the software for the first time initiates a series of basic guides to help you build your first mind map. It’s a simple approach that relies on Tab, Enter, and Space keys, so that your hand never needs to leave the keyboard.

Most of the functionality you need from Xmind can be accessed using the toolbar at the top of the page. This is also where you can activate Zen Mode.

Xmind: Customer support

To help you use the software, the Xmind website provides a user guide and video tutorials. These aim to get you started as quickly as possible and demonstrate advanced use of the software. 

Xmind offers you several ways to get in touch regarding your questions and concerns. The Help Center features a knowledge base, as well as forums for you to ask your questions and a page for you to provide suggestions for improvements. There’s also the Xmind blog, which is a good source for announcements, news, and special offers. 

If you want to talk to someone on the Xmind team, you can send them an email or reach out via Discord.

Xmind: The competition

Xmind isn’t the only tool on the market supporting idea generation. Two key competitors are Ayoa and MindMeister.

Ayoa has great collaboration tools, something that Xmind does not, but aside from that difference they’re both pretty similar. Each tool is easy to use and provides a focused work space for ideation and mapping.

Meanwhile, MindMeister is a web-based mind mapping tool that features robust collaboration features and allows you to export your files in a number of formats. It has a modern, easy-to-use interface and offers a free plan that allows you to get a feel for the product. However, to access all of the features, you will need to upgrade to a paid subscription.

Xmind: Final verdict

Xmind is a mind mapping/brainstorming tool that offers its users a lot of features and functionality. While there is a divide between its free and Pro packages, there is enough in the free option to entice you into the upgrade should you need more functionality. The paid version is affordable enough, although the bulk pricing may put you off.

In a market populated by mind mapping tools of varying quality, Xmind stands out as one of the best around. It is simply a pleasure to use, encouraging frictionless “mindflow” from head to screen. 

We list the best free Gantt chart software.

Alert1 is a company that provides medical alert systems for seniors who want to live independently and safely. Alert1 has three plans to choose from, depending on your needs and preferences. Each plan includes a wearable device with an emergency button and a 24/7 monitoring service that can contact your family, friends, or emergency responders in case of an emergency. Alert1 was founded in 1988 and is based in Williamsport, Pennsylvania. It has two UL-listed and Five Diamond-certified call centers that offer customer service in 190 different languages.

Alert1: Medical alert systems

Both the in-home landline and cellular systems utilize the same medical alert system. When selecting the cellular option, an adapter is included to connect to a cellular network instead of relying on a landline. While most services have a pre-configured cellular system, this particular system requires manual assembly. The adapter itself is not compact, potentially posing a challenge in limited counter spaces.

The in-home system's pendant range, averaging 100 feet, surpasses the industry average. It outperforms MyTrex and MobileHelp systems, which typically cover around 77 and 88 feet, respectively. Although rated for 1,000 feet, the 100-foot range is ideal for homes or apartments. Venturing beyond this distance increases the risk of failed emergency communication or false alerts.

During fall detection tests, the Alert1 pendant stood out as the service's highlight. It accurately detected falls without being overly sensitive and generating excessive false alerts. However, it's important to note that false alerts can still occur, as even dropping the pendant from a mere 12 inches triggered a fall detection, indicating that help calls may be initiated more easily than anticipated.

The mobile GPS device, specifically the Kelsi mobile PERS device, demonstrated significantly improved fall detection capabilities. While the audio quality of the Kelsi is inferior to that of other mobile devices, it surpasses that of the in-home base station, which lacks both clarity and volume.

We were genuinely surprised by the cellular adapter that came with the in-home cellular system. Given the absence of any images on the company's website, we were completely unprepared for its substantial size. Resembling a Wi-Fi modem, it occupies a significant amount of space. In contrast, most in-home cellular systems simply require flipping a switch to establish a connection to the cellular signal. 

Alert1: Emergency response center

In terms of emergency call response speed, Alert1 exhibited the weakest performance. During the initial three-week daily testing phase, it recorded an average of 67 seconds per call, positioning it as one of the slowest services in the test. Surprisingly, in the subsequent three-week daily testing phase, while most other services showed improvements, Alert1's performance regressed, resulting in an average of almost 120 seconds per call. To put this into perspective, GreatCall, a competing service, achieved average response times of 20 seconds and 15 seconds in the respective testing phases. In emergency situations, these time differences can be profoundly significant. Even in non-emergency scenarios, the disparities are noticeable. 

Furthermore, the call quality was less than satisfactory. Although most operators were professional, there were instances where they abruptly ended the call without checking on our well-being. Additionally, our identity was never verified. It was also noticeable that some operators sounded unenthusiastic and fatigued. In multiple calls, we experienced disruptive and loud beeping noises due to operators pressing buttons on their end. These factors collectively failed to provide any comfort or reduce the anxiety typically associated with reaching out to an emergency call center.  

Alert1: Accessories

On a positive note, Alert1 does offer more accessories to help with aging in place than other services. While they have the standard accessories, like lockbox and fall detection pendants, they also have medication reminders, fall protection kits, and more. 

Alert1: Pricing

Alert1's medical alert systems start at $19.95 per month, depending on the features and functions you choose. Here's a breakdown of their most popular plans:

In-Home Classic Medical Alert: This plan starts at $19.95 per month and includes a help button, 24/7 monitoring, and fall detection.

On-The-Go: This plan starts at $39.95 per month and includes a mobile help button with GPS, 24/7 monitoring, and fall detection. 

Ultimate: This plan starts at $44.95 per month and includes all the features of the Homeland Classic and On-The-Go plans, plus medication reminders and voice activated help.

Alert1 also offers a variety of other features and add-ons, such as fall detection for $10 per month, a lockbox for $5 per month, and additional help buttons for $5 per month each. If this all sounds confusing, no worries as you can get a free quote on Alert1's website or by calling them at 1-888-782-5378.

Finally, some additional things to keep in mind when considering Alert1 include that there is no activation fee or long-term contract required, you can cancel your service at any time, and there is a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Alert1: Final verdict

Alert1 offers medical alert systems for seniors who want to live independently. They have various plans and devices to suit different needs, including in-home, mobile, and fall detection options. Their prices range start at $19.95 per month, with additional features and add-ons available. While they offer more accessories than other services and have no activation fee or contract, their emergency response center was slow and call quality was not the best. Their Kelsi mobile GPS device with fall detection was their best product. 

We've listed the best fall detection sensors.

For nearly four decades, LifeStation has been delivering essential safety services, aiming to enhance the safety and independence of seniors while providing greater peace of mind to their loved ones. As one of the leading providers of medical alert systems in the United States, LifeStation has established a solid reputation in the industry. 

LifeStation: Medical alert systems

LifeStation offers a variety of features across its different plans and devices, but some of the core functionalities include:

Core Features:

24/7 Emergency Monitoring: This is the heart of LifeStation's service. Upon pressing the help button, you'll be connected to their US-based monitoring center staffed by trained professionals who can assess the situation and dispatch help if needed.

Nationwide Cellular Coverage: LifeStation utilizes reliable cellular networks to ensure connectivity throughout the US, even in remote areas.

Two-Way Communication: Speak directly with the monitoring center through the help button, allowing for clear communication of your situation and needs.

Fall Detection (Optional): This feature uses advanced technology to automatically detect falls and trigger an emergency response if you're unable to call for help yourself.

GPS Location Tracking (Mobile Devices): Helps pinpoint your location for faster emergency response, especially helpful for mobile help buttons worn outside the home.

Water Resistance: Most LifeStation devices are water-resistant, allowing for use in various environments like bathrooms or near sinks.

Long Battery Life: Devices are designed to last for extended periods without needing recharge, providing peace of mind during power outages or extended use.

Voice Prompts: Audio cues inform you about battery levels, system status, and provide confirmation when pressing the help button.

Additional Features (Depending on Plan and Device):

Lockbox: Securely store medication or valuables and grant access to emergency personnel through a PIN code.

Smartwatch Features (Sidekick Smart): Track heart rate, steps, and receive additional health insights alongside emergency alert functionality.

Alexa Integration: Use voice commands through compatible Alexa devices to request help or check system status.

It's important to note that specific features may vary depending on the chosen plan and device. Always refer to LifeStation's website or consult with their representatives for detailed information on features included in each option.

During our testing in an apartment complex with numerous walls, the pendant demonstrated an exceptional range, with an average reach of 117 feet. This surpassed most medical alert systems, which typically maxed out at approximately 75 feet. While it fell short of the specified range of 1,200 feet under ideal conditions, it was still one of the longest ranges among the systems we evaluated. With a range of 117 feet, it effectively covers large apartments and houses, eliminating concerns about signal obstruction by walls or furniture.

Despite its relatively better performance compared to other pendants, the fall detection pendant still had limitations. None of the tested pendants performed exceptionally well. Common complaints among seniors revealed that the sensors were either too sensitive, triggering constant false alerts, or insensitive, failing to recognize actual falls. While LifeStation's pendant excelled at detecting genuine falls, it still generated some false alerts. Additionally, there was a noticeable delay of 25 to 30 seconds between a fall occurring and the device calling for help, which could be improved for more immediate assistance.

LifeStation: Emergency response center

During the initial three-week daily tests, LifeStation achieved an average call response time of approximately 47 seconds. This performance placed LifeStation among the top three fastest response times recorded during the test, despite being considerably slower than GreatCall's average time of 20 seconds. However, in the subsequent three-week testing period, LifeStation's call response time regressed to an average of around 52 seconds. While still above average, this decline in performance was disappointing as we had anticipated improvement. 

One significant drawback of the monitoring center was the subpar call quality. The audio quality of the in-home system was extremely poor, and we could only effectively evaluate calls made on the mobile medical alert device due to its superior audio quality. However, even with the mobile device, we often encountered difficulties understanding the operators. They either spoke too rapidly or had strong regional accents that hindered effective communication. Furthermore, the operators frequently sounded disinterested and bored, which was particularly noticeable compared to other services we reviewed. While none of the calls were severely problematic, their quality was generally inferior to most other services we assessed. 

LifeStation: Pricing

Previously, we criticized this company for the lack of upfront pricing, however things have improved now. From the website, we can report that LifeStation offers three main pricing plans, each with additional options and add-ons you can choose from:

1. In-Home Systems:

Standard: Starts at $34.95 per month. Includes 24/7 monitoring, one help button, and a cellular-connected base unit.

Select: $31.95 per month on top of the Standard plan. Adds LifeStation's protection plan, which covers accidental damage and malfunction of the equipment.

Supreme: $14 per month on top of the Select plan. Includes everything in the Select plan plus a PIN-protected lock box for medication or valuables.

2. Sidekick (Mobile Help Button):

Standard: Starts at $39.95 per month. Includes 24/7 monitoring, a mobile help button with GPS location tracking, and fall detection (optional for an additional fee).

Select: $4 per month on top of the Standard plan. Adds LifeStation's protection plan for the mobile help button.

3. Sidekick Smart (Wearable Help Button):

Standard: Starts at $46.95 per month. Includes 24/7 monitoring, a smartwatch-style help button with fall detection, and GPS location tracking.

Also keep in mind that all plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee, and there are no long-term contracts required. Also some plans require a one-time activation fee of $99.95, and also a shipping fee of $12.50. There is also the option for additional help buttons on the wrist or neck pendant for an extra fee per month, and fall detection is an optional add-on on some plans.

LifeStation: Support

If you need to get in touch with LifeStation, you can call LifeStation’s experienced customer service team at (800) 998-2400; the hours of operation are not specified. While we always appreciate direct phone support, we did not find any other options, such as a chat, email or support portal.

There are also some limited self support options. These include an installation guide, and a FAQ.

LifeStation: Final Verdict

Despite being one of the biggest and oldest medical alert companies, LifeStation doesn’t do enough to push the market forward. It offers nothing that you can’t get from other medical alert services for better prices. However, we do appreciate the choice of plans, and the move for transparent pricing. Overall, the emergency call response times were good and the fall detection pendant was decent. We also appreciate the 30 day money back guarantee. 

We've also listed the Best medical alert with GPS tracking, and the best medical alert smartwatch.

Established in 1976 and headquartered in White Plains, New York, LifeFone is a highly reputable medical alert company devoted to delivering emergency assistance to seniors and individuals in need. Their diverse offerings include at-home and mobile systems utilizing landline or cellular connections, ensuring seamless communication with their 24/7 monitoring centers. Additionally, they provide a cutting-edge smartwatch featuring GPS, fitness tracking, and text-to-speech capabilities.

LifeFone is a BBB-accredited organization that proudly holds an A+ rating. Positive customer reviews consistently highlight the effortless installation process, exceptional service reliability, and the friendly and supportive staff. LifeFone's unwavering commitment is to provide a sense of security and peace of mind to its thousands of customers across the United States.

LifeFone: Medical alert systems

Regarding residential landline and cellular services, LifeFone employs the identical medical alert system utilized by Medical Guardian's landline system. During our evaluations, this specific system (the manufacturer of which could not be ascertained) demonstrated a considerably longer wireless pendant range. It achieved a range of 2,000 feet, surpassing its specified range by 400 feet.

However, it is important to note that while an extensive range allows for greater mobility within one's yard and surrounding area, it does not necessarily imply that it should be utilized in such a manner. If your mobility extends beyond the confines of your home, a mobile medical alert system may be a more prudent choice. In the event of a false alarm triggered by a fall detection pendant (a not uncommon occurrence) while you are outside your home, an ambulance may be dispatched unnecessarily.

The On-the-Go and At-home package includes the MobileHelp CBS2-01 device and the MobileHelp GPS mobile system. Both are widely utilized and highly sought after, with five of the services we reviewed incorporating them.

The popularity of the MobileHelp device can be attributed to several distinguishing factors. Notably, its speakerphone provides exceptional audio quality, ensuring clear and effective communication with emergency operators, despite not being as loud as the MyTrex MXG. Moreover, the device incorporates a display that indicates the strength of the cellular signal, allowing users to strategically position it within their homes for optimal reception. Additionally, the display conveniently displays the current time and temperature.

The fall detection pendant, which costs an additional $5 to the monthly service fee, was found to be disappointing and lacking in reliability. During our testing, the pendant demonstrated a high level of sensitivity, resulting in numerous false alarms. This underscores the potential drawbacks of an extended range, particularly for fall detection pendants. If the sensitive sensor triggers an alert and the user is too far from the base station to communicate with the operator to confirm it as a false alarm, it may result in unnecessary emergency medical assistance.

Also keep in mind that in the United States, as a precautionary measure against legal liabilities, most emergency medical technicians (EMTs) are required or compelled to transport seniors to the hospital for evaluation, even in non-emergency situations.

These considerations aside, the Numeris Libris mobile device's fall detection sensor is decidedly superior. Although not flawless, it exhibits a relatively high degree of accuracy in detecting falls. While some Numera Libris devices we have tested have been overly sensitive, the fact that it is a mobile device allows you to easily communicate with the operator and clarify that you are not experiencing an emergency.

LifeFone: Emergency response center

During the initial three-week daily testing phase, LifeFone demonstrated a commendable response time, averaging 45 seconds to answer calls for assistance. This performance surpassed the overall average by a significant margin of 25 seconds. In fact, LifeFone stood second only to GreatCall, which achieved an impressive average of 20 seconds per call. Subsequently, in the second phase of three-week daily testing, LifeFone further improved its performance, reducing the average response time to 37 seconds per call. It is worth noting, however, that other service providers such as Medical Guardian and GreatCall also exhibited improvements during this phase. Consequently, while LifeFone may not have secured the title of the fastest response time, it has firmly established itself as one of the most expeditious services in answering calls. 

Our assessment of the call quality was above average. The operators consistently spoke clearly and at a pace well-suited for seniors, who often find it challenging to follow phone conversations. Additionally, the operators verified our well-being and identity during almost every call, which could pose a security issue. Furthermore, we appreciated the operators' practice of signaling the end of the call, as many other services end calls abruptly without any indication from the operator. The signaling system offers reassurance that the call has ended and that the operator is no longer connected.

The sole drawback was the infrequent occurrence of operators exhibiting signs of disinterest and boredom during certain calls. It is understandable that toward the end of their shifts, a small number of operators may exhibit fatigue and diminished enthusiasm. Nonetheless, when contrasted with other calls characterized by engaged operators who communicate in a reassuring and calming tone, this disparity can be jarring.

LifeFone: Medical alert service

According to the LifeFone website, the pricing for their medical alert systems varies depending on the type of service, the billing option, and the optional features. LifeFone has six medical alert plans that cater to different lifestyles and needs. They are:

At-Home Landline: This plan uses a landline connection to provide 24/7 protection at home. It costs $24.95/month with annual billing, $27.95/month with quarterly billing, or $29.95/month with monthly billing. You can add fall detection for $5/month.

At-Home Cellular: This plan uses a cellular connection to provide 24/7 protection at home. It costs $30.95/month with annual billing, $32.95/month with quarterly billing, or $34.95/month with monthly billing. You can add fall detection for $5/month.

At-Home & On-the-Go VIPx: This plan uses a cellular connection for unlimited range, and GPS to provide 24/7 protection at home and away. It costs $41.95/month with annual billing, $43.95/month with quarterly billing, or $46.95/month with monthly billing. You can add fall detection for $10/month and a caregiver app for $7/month.

At-Home & On-the-Go VIP Active: This plan uses a cellular connection via a simpler device with a shorter battery life, and GPS to provide 24/7 protection at home and away. It costs $39.95/month with annual billing, $41.95/month with quarterly billing, or $44.95/month with monthly billing. You can add fall detection for $10/month.

At-Home & On-the-Go VIP flex: This plan uses a cellular connection and GPS to provide 24/7 protection at home and away via a wristband device. It costs $41.95/month with annual billing, $43.95/month with quarterly billing, or $46.95/month with monthly billing. You can add fall detection for $10/month.

At-Home & On-the-Go Safe Watch Active: This plan uses a smartwatch with cellular connection and GPS to provide 24/7 protection at home and away. It costs $45.95/month with annual billing, $47.95/month with quarterly billing, or $49.95/month with monthly billing. You can add fall detection for $10/month. The watch has a color display, but it only has a 24 hour battery life.

All plans include free activation, free equipment, free shipping, and a price-lock guarantee. You can cancel anytime without any penalty. You can also get free spouse monitoring with any at-home system.

LifeFone: Support

If you need help with your LifeFone system or service, you can contact their customer service by phone or email. They can be contacted directly, either via a toll free number, or via email. We also like that there is a dedicated line for “Emergency Care Instructions.” The hours of operation for the customer service and sales support team is from 8 am to 10 pm Eastern Standard Time, seven days a week, including holidays. 

There is also an online account portal for paying bills, updating a profile, and managing the settings. For self help, there is a FAQ and a blog. We did not find any chat,or a support portal, but we did locate a few user guides and videos. 

LifeFone: Final verdict

LifeFone offers reliable systems, impressive performance, and exceptional customer support, making it a solid medical alert service. Choosing LifeFone is a wise decision, as its systems deliver clear audio quality and surpass standard emergency response times.

However, it is crucial to acknowledge that LifeFone is comparable to other medical alert services in the market. While its performance and service are commendable, they do not significantly set it apart from its competitors.

Although LifeFone remains a reliable choice, there are more cost-effective options available that provide better value and enhanced benefits.

We've listed the best medical alert with GPS tracking.

Bay Alarm Medical is a company that specializes in providing medical alert systems and services for seniors and their families. It offers home-based and mobile systems with 24/7 professional monitoring services. It has been in business for over 70 years and has a headquarters in Concord, California. It overall gets high marks with 4.8 out of 5 stars based on over 10,000 reviews.

That said, we’ve had too many issues with connection and sensitivity issues. The issues actually overshadow the benefits of Bay Alarm Medical's overall value. Twice we’ve had issues with medical alert devices not connecting to the emergency response center that the brand has partnered with. And twice we’ve had fall detection sensors call for help when nobody was around, resulting in an ambulance being sent out to us. Twice. That said, we recognize the issues might be isolated to our experience and not endemic to the service as a whole. 

Still, it is a concerning pattern that we can’t ignore. While Bay Alarm Medical offers some benefits, we've encountered persistent problems with connectivity and sensitivity. These issues overshadow the overall value of the service. Twice, our medical alert devices failed to connect to the emergency response center that Bay Alarm Medical partners with. Additionally, our fall detection sensors triggered false alarms twice, resulting in unnecessary ambulance dispatches.

It's important to note that our experience may not be representative of the service as a whole. However, the recurring issues are concerning and cannot be disregarded.

Bay Alarm Medical: Medical alert systems

In keeping with the practices of many medical alert companies, Bay Alarm Medical utilizes the MyTrex MXD system for both the in-home landline and cellular systems. This system incorporates a speakerphone with a high volume output, offering both advantages and drawbacks. Having evaluated numerous MyTrex MXD systems, we have found that while they consistently deliver the highest volume output on the market, the audio quality can be variable. We believe this is due to the practice of reusing medical alert systems after they have been returned by customers who have canceled their service. Over time, the speaker will inevitably deteriorate, leading to poor communication quality with emergency responders. We strongly recommend testing the speaker quality and returning the device if you are not satisfied with its performance.

Additionally, Bay Alarm Medical offers a unique in-car medical alert system. This system connects to your vehicle's AC adapter and automatically calls for assistance in the event of an accident or if you are stranded, lost, or in need of help.

During our initial three-week testing period, we received a device that was programmed with an invalid phone number. When we pressed the help button, we received an automated message stating that the number was no longer valid, followed by a request to call a different number. However, the message was always terminated before the complete number was provided. We reported this issue to Bay Alarm, and they promptly sent us a replacement device. Unfortunately, by the time we received the new medical alert system, it was no longer practical to conduct comparative testing with other systems in terms of their call response times.

During the execution of the second phase of testing, our team experienced connectivity challenges with Bay Alarm Medical's mobile medical alert system. On two separate occasions, the system failed to establish a connection with an emergency response center, necessitating them to contact our personal telephone number to ascertain our well-being. Additionally, the system initiated two false alarms when no individuals were present, resulting in the dispatch of an ambulance to our testing facility on both instances. Currently, the precise cause of these issues remains uncertain. Bay Alarm Medical has provided an apology and has offered to replace the device; however, the persistent issues have undoubtedly given us cause for concern. 

Bay Alarm Medical: Emergency response center

The initial testing phase revealed that the emergency response time was not satisfactory, with an average of approximately 50 seconds, which exceeded the industry standard. Notably, there were two instances where calls remained unanswered after a duration of five minutes. These instances were excluded from the final results due to a suspected device malfunction. 

It is noteworthy that in both cases, the emergency response center proactively contacted us via our private phone line to ensure our well-being. This indicates that the call for assistance was received, but the device encountered an unexplained technical issue that prevented it from establishing a connection with an operator. In comparison, GreatCall demonstrated significantly faster response times for emergency calls, with an average of 20 seconds per call, which is approximately four times faster than our device's performance. 

One positive takeaway was the quality of the calls. When we were successfully able to connect, the calls were excellent. The operators were clearly well-trained, maintaining an interested, yet calm demeanor. They made sure to ask if we were okay multiple times and almost always required us to confirm our identity, a necessary security measure often skipped by call centers. One positive aspect of the calls was their overall quality. When connections were successfully established, the calls were consistently excellent. The operators demonstrated a high level of training by maintaining a professional and attentive demeanor throughout the interactions. They consistently inquired about our well-being and almost always requested confirmation of our identity, which is a vital security measure that is frequently overlooked by other call centers.

Bay Alarm Medical: Medical alert service

Bay Alarm Medical employs a relatively assertive approach to marketing and sales strategies compared to its competitors. Upon providing personal information, individuals should anticipate a consistent stream of emails, texts, and phone calls. Nevertheless, such practices are commonplace within the industry. It is important to note that Bay Alarm Medical operates on a no-obligation basis, ensuring that customers are never pressured into making unaffordable purchases.

Bay Alarm Medical has forged a partnership with Bella Charms to enhance the aesthetics of medical alert pendants through innovative decorative elements. This strategic collaboration aims to address the social stigma associated with traditional medical alert devices. By concealing the pendant within an attractive piece of jewelry, the solution increases the likelihood of seniors adhering to the usage of their devices.   

Bay Alarm Medical: Pricing

Bay Alarm Medical offers different plans and packages for their medical alert systems and services. The pricing varies depending on the type of system, the features, and the payment frequency. Here are some examples of their pricing:

SOS Home Landline: This is the basic package that works with a landline phone and a help button. It starts at $24.95 per month with no equipment cost.

SOS Home Cellular: This is similar to the landline package but works with a cellular network instead of a phone line. It starts at $29.95 per month with no equipment cost.

SOS Home Cellular with Fall Prevention: This is a device that combines the features of the in-home and mobile systems. It has a base station, a help button, and a GPS tracker. It can work both in and away from home. It starts at $39.95 per month with a one-time fee of $159.

Also note that there is free shipping on devices, and some plans offer a free month of service.

Bay Alarm Medical: Support

If you need support from Bay Alarm Medical, you have several options to contact them. You can call them at 1-877-522-9633 or 1-925-677-1400 and press “1” to reach their customer service team. You can also send them an email at cs@bayalarmmedical.com. Their customer service hours are Monday to Friday, 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM Pacific Time.

We also visited their website and found helpful guides and videos on how to use their products and services. If you have a medical emergency, you can push your help button and a professionally-trained operator will be on the line.

Bay Alarm Medical: Final verdict

Bay Alarm Medical has low prices for its landline and mobile systems, starting at $25 and $30 per month respectively. It also has a unique in-car medical alert system that sets it apart from other services.

However, we are less than satisfied with Bay Alarm Medical due to the frequent issues we have faced. The connection problems with both the MyTrex and the mobile system reduce the value of the service, despite the otherwise attractive pricing.

We've listed the best fall detection sensors.