Yes, AARP Offers a Discount Through an Exclusive Partnership with Lifeline
AARP has an official partnership with Lifeline, a well-known provider of medical alert systems, to offer its members a significant discount. The discount includes 15% off the monthly monitoring service, plus free shipping and free activation. This benefit is available to all AARP members and is easily claimed by providing a valid membership number when setting up the service. This is a valuable starting point for many seniors and their families, as it guarantees a saving from a reputable brand. However, this is not the only option to consider, and it is wise to explore alternatives before making a final decision.
How to Claim Your Lifeline Medical Alert Discount with AARP
Obtaining the AARP member discount for a Lifeline medical alert system is a straightforward process. You have two main options:
- Online: Navigate to the specific Lifeline page for AARP members via the AARP website or directly on the Lifeline site. During the online checkout process, you will be prompted to enter your AARP membership number and the account holder's last name to verify eligibility and apply the discount.
- By Phone: Call Lifeline directly at the phone number provided on the AARP benefits page (1-855-345-0130) and inform the representative that you are an AARP member. They will request your membership number to apply the 15% discount, free shipping, and free activation to your order.
Existing Lifeline customers who are also AARP members can retroactively apply the discount to their future bills by calling Lifeline and providing their membership details.
Is the AARP Discount Always the Best Deal?
While the AARP discount provides a solid and reliable saving, it is not always the cheapest or best option for every individual. The overall value depends on the specific medical alert system and features you need. Many other providers frequently offer their own promotions and deals that can sometimes be more attractive than the standard 15% offered through AARP. These promotions can include a free month of service, free equipment, or a free lockbox for emergency access.
For example, some companies may have a lower starting price point, meaning their discounted rate is still more affordable than Lifeline's discounted price. Others might offer a more robust package of features for a similar or lower overall cost. It is crucial to compare various providers to ensure you get the best fit for your budget and safety needs.
Key Considerations Beyond Price
Beyond just the monthly cost, there are several other factors to weigh when choosing a medical alert system:
- Equipment Fees: Some companies, like Medical Guardian, charge an upfront equipment fee, while others, like LifeFone, may not. Even with a percentage-based discount, a system with a high equipment fee could cost more overall than a system with no equipment fee.
- Fall Detection: The cost and reliability of fall detection technology vary by provider. This is an important consideration, especially for individuals at a high risk of falls. Some systems might have very accurate fall detection, while others may be prone to false positives.
- GPS Tracking: If the user is active and spends time away from home, a mobile system with GPS tracking is essential. Different providers have varying battery life and GPS capabilities in their mobile units.
- Monitoring Quality: The quality and training of the emergency response operators are paramount. A reputable provider with a fast response time and TMA Five Diamond certification is a major plus.
- Contract Terms: AARP members should look for services without long-term contracts. Many modern medical alert companies offer flexible, month-to-month plans, which is a key advantage over providers that require multi-year commitments.
Comparison of Medical Alert System Discounts
To help illustrate how the AARP discount compares to other options, consider this comparison of different providers and their common deals. Note that specific promotions can change frequently, so it is always best to call and confirm the latest offers.
| Provider | AARP Discount | Monthly Fee (Estimated) | Freebies Included | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lifeline | 15% off service | Varies by system | Free shipping & activation | Direct AARP partnership |
| Bay Alarm Medical | None | Starting at $19.95 | Free month with annual plan, free shipping on quarterly | Excellent customer service |
| LifeFone | None advertised | Starting at $19.95 (mention promo code) | 1 free month, free lockbox, free shipping | 30-day trial period, price lock guarantee |
| MobileHelp | None advertised | Starting at $19.99 (mention promo) | 2 months free, 50% off fall detection (promo) | Cost-competitive with strong incentives |
| Medical Guardian | Unclear/None advertised | Varies, starts higher | Free month, free shipping, free lockbox with annual plan | Advanced technology, multiple options |
Making the Best Choice for Your Needs
Choosing the right medical alert system is a personal decision that involves more than just finding the biggest discount. While the AARP-endorsed Lifeline offer is a great baseline, exploring multiple options is crucial to finding the best solution for safety and budget. By comparing features like fall detection accuracy, GPS capabilities, and overall contract terms, you can ensure a well-informed choice that provides peace of mind for both you and your family.
Ultimately, the strongest strategy is to leverage your AARP discount with Lifeline, but also call and compare quotes from at least one or two other top providers, such as Bay Alarm Medical or MobileHelp. This approach allows you to weigh the value of the AARP discount against other compelling deals in the market, ensuring you get the most bang for your buck in your personal safety investment.
Conclusion
Yes, AARP members can receive a 15% discount on medical alert services from Lifeline, along with free shipping and activation. This exclusive offer is a valuable benefit for members looking for a reputable and reliable system. However, shoppers should not assume this is the only or best deal available. By comparing the Lifeline discount with promotions offered by other top providers like Bay Alarm Medical and MobileHelp, consumers can find the system that offers the best combination of features, cost, and overall value. Considering aspects such as fall detection, GPS tracking, and contract flexibility ensures that the final choice is tailored to specific safety needs and budget requirements.
