Does Best Buy Sell Medical Alert Devices? The Definitive Guide

Oct 29, 2025 3 min read •

senior care Independent Living Health Technology

According to the CDC, over one-quarter of adults aged 65 and older report falling each year, making reliable emergency systems a critical safety tool. Navigating retail options for these vital technologies often leads to a key question: Does Best Buy sell medical alert devices?

Quick Summary

Best Buy, through its health division and subsidiary Lively, does sell a variety of medical alert devices and services both in-store and online. These offerings include mobile GPS-enabled devices with optional fall detection and access to 24/7 urgent response agents for comprehensive senior safety.

Key Points

Official Best Buy Offering: Yes, Best Buy sells medical alert devices, primarily through its subsidiary brand, Lively.
Lively Brand Products: Best Buy's product line includes Lively Mobile2 and Lively Mobile Plus devices, which feature GPS and optional fall detection.
Emergency Response System: These devices operate with a monthly subscription plan that connects users to 24/7 urgent response agents via Lively's Caring Centers.
Integrated with Senior Phones: Lively's Jitterbug phones also incorporate a dedicated Urgent Response button, combining a senior-friendly mobile phone with a medical alert system.
Convenient Retail Experience: Buying from Best Buy allows for in-store consultation and access to Geek Squad support for setup and technical issues.
Fall Detection Feature: For an additional monthly fee, many Lively devices offer automatic fall detection, which is a vital feature for many seniors.
Family Caregiver App: The Lively Link App keeps family members and caregivers informed with alerts and updates.

Yes, Best Buy is a Source for Medical Alert Devices

For those wondering, “Does Best Buy sell medical alert devices?”, the answer is a definitive yes. Best Buy is involved in the health and wellness technology space, including solutions for active aging. Through its subsidiary, Lively (formerly GreatCall), Best Buy offers medical alert systems and services. This includes both devices and subscription-based monitoring that provides 24/7 access to trained professionals.

The Lively Brand: Best Buy's Senior Health Solution

Lively is Best Buy's primary brand for medical alert offerings, providing health and safety solutions for older adults to live independently. Their products are available on BestBuy.com and often in-store, integrating with apps for family members and caregiver support.

Key Lively Medical Alert Products at Best Buy

Best Buy offers several Lively medical alert devices:

Lively Mobile2: An all-in-one mobile device with an easy-to-press button for emergencies, enhanced GPS, and optional fall detection. It's waterproof and connects to agents in case of a fall.
Lively Mobile Plus: An earlier version offering similar features like GPS, optional fall detection, long battery life, and water resistance.
Lively Flip2/Jitterbug Smart4: These senior-friendly phones include a dedicated Urgent Response button, functioning as a medical alert system with a service plan.

Subscription Plans and Services

Purchasing a Lively device at Best Buy requires a separate subscription for monitoring services. Lively offers plans with access to 'Caring Centers' staffed with Urgent Response Agents. Some plans include 'Nurse On-Call' and 'Care Advocate' services. The Lively Link App allows family members to receive notifications.

How to Choose a Medical Alert Device at Best Buy

When selecting a device at Best Buy, consider mobility, fall detection needs, and whether a standalone device or integrated solution is preferred.

Comparing Lively Medical Alert Devices Available at Best Buy


Feature	Lively Mobile2	Lively Mobile Plus	Jitterbug Smart4	Jitterbug Flip2
Device Type	All-in-one Mobile Alert	Mobile Alert	Smartphone	Flip Phone
Emergency Button	Yes	Yes	Yes (Dedicated)	Yes (Dedicated)
GPS Tracking	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Fall Detection	Optional	Optional	Optional (Urgent Response)	Optional (Urgent Response)
Communication	Two-way talk	Two-way talk	Two-way talk	Two-way talk
App Integration	Yes (Lively Link)	Yes (Lively Link)	Yes (Lively Link)	Yes (Lively Link)
Best For	On-the-go users needing simple, dedicated device	Users needing reliable mobile alert	Tech-savvy seniors who want a smartphone	Seniors who prefer a simple, tactile phone

The Best Buy Advantage: Setup and Support

Best Buy offers the advantage of physical stores to view products and consult with staff. Geek Squad services provide setup and technical support, which is beneficial for seniors transitioning to new technology. This in-person support can distinguish Best Buy from online-only providers.

Conclusion: A Reliable Retailer for Medical Alert Needs

Best Buy is a reliable retailer for medical alert devices, offering a selection of monitored systems through its Lively brand. These systems cater to various senior needs, from mobile pendants to integrated phone solutions. The convenience of purchasing from Best Buy and accessing support offers peace of mind for seniors and their families, making it a viable option for those seeking a medical alert system.

Visit the Best Buy Health page for more information.

Best Buy's Role in Medical Alert Technology

Best Buy's entry into health and wellness, including medical alert technology, reflects a trend of retailers addressing the needs of an aging population. By acquiring Lively, Best Buy became a player in the 'aging at home' sector, using its retail and support infrastructure. The company aims to provide comprehensive solutions beyond traditional electronics.

Alternatives and Competitive Landscape

While Lively is a strong option, competitors like Medical Guardian, MobileHelp, and Bay Alarm Medical also offer various systems. Lively's advantage includes its physical retail presence and integration with Best Buy services like Geek Squad. Best Buy also offers related products like smart home security and fitness trackers, supporting a holistic approach to senior safety and wellness.

The Importance of Monitored Services

Monitored systems, like Lively's Urgent Response, connect users to live agents 24/7, unlike unmonitored systems that only call 911. Agents can assess situations, contact family, and dispatch appropriate services, offering a key benefit of the Lively system sold at Best Buy.

Frequently Asked Questions

While you can purchase the medical alert hardware device, such as the Lively Mobile2, at Best Buy, it will not function as a monitored system without a subscription to a Lively service plan. The plan provides the 24/7 access to the Urgent Response Agents.

Yes, fall detection is available for an additional monthly fee with Lively medical alert devices, including the Lively Mobile2. This feature automatically connects you with an urgent response agent if a fall is detected, even if you can't press the button.

The mobile versions, like the Lively Mobile2 and Mobile Plus, use nationwide cellular coverage and GPS to provide protection both at home and on the go. This means you can be protected wherever you have cellular service.

Yes, many of the Lively medical alert devices sold at Best Buy are water-resistant, with specific models like the Mobile Plus rated IPX7 for immersion, making them safe to wear in the shower where many falls occur.

The Lively Link App is a free smartphone app for family members and caregivers. It allows them to stay updated on the user's status, receiving alerts if they contact Urgent Response or if the device's battery is low.

While other reputable brands exist, Lively, sold through Best Buy, offers the unique advantage of in-person retail support and integration with Geek Squad for setup. Comparative pricing and features vary, so it's always wise to research multiple options.

Yes, a key benefit of purchasing through Best Buy is access to their tech support services, including Geek Squad, for assistance with device setup and troubleshooting. The Lively service plan also includes customer service support.

References

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider regarding personal health decisions.