Lively Medical Alert System: A Look at Upfront Costs
When you purchase a Lively medical alert system, specifically the Mobile2 device, you'll encounter a couple of one-time fees before your monthly service begins. Being aware of these initial expenses is key to budgeting accurately for your safety and peace of mind.
The Lively Mobile2 Equipment Fee
The centerpiece of Lively's mobile solution is the Mobile2 device. This compact, all-in-one unit serves as your connection to help. The standard one-time equipment fee for the Lively Mobile2 is $79.99. However, it's worth noting that Lively often runs promotions, so it's wise to check their website for any current sales that could lower this initial cost.
The Activation Fee
In addition to the equipment charge, Lively assesses a one-time activation fee of $35. This fee covers the setup of your service and account. It's a fairly standard practice in the industry. Some consumer reports suggest that this fee can sometimes be waived by activating over the phone with a customer service representative, but this is not guaranteed. Always ask about potential fee waivers when you sign up.
Lively Monthly Plans: Service and Features
After the initial purchase, the bulk of your Lively medical alert cost comes from the ongoing monthly monitoring subscription. Lively offers two main plan tiers for their medical alert service, allowing you to choose the level of protection that best fits your needs and budget.
The Basic Plan (Preferred)
Lively's entry-level plan, often called the Basic or Preferred plan, costs $24.99 per month for the Mobile2. For this price, you get access to the essential Lively services:
- Urgent Response: Connects you 24/7 to a certified Urgent Response agent with the press of a button.
- Ask Lively: A concierge-like service where a live operator can help you with simple requests like looking up a phone number.
- Lively Link App: Notifies friends and family in your circle when there's an emergency alert.
The Premium Plan
For those who desire additional health and wellness resources, the Premium plan is available for $34.99 per month. It includes all the features of the Basic plan, plus two valuable additions:
- Nurse On-Call: Provides 24/7 access to board-certified nurses and doctors for non-emergency medical advice or to request a prescription refill.
- Care Advocate: Experts who can help create a personalized plan to meet health goals and connect you with local resources.
Lively's Additional Costs and Add-ons
There are other optional services and accessories that can affect your total Lively medical alert cost. While not mandatory, these additions can significantly enhance your safety and the device's functionality.
Automatic Fall Detection
For many seniors, fall detection is a critical feature. Lively offers this important service as an add-on to either the Basic or Premium plan for an extra $9.99 per month. The Mobile2 device is equipped with advanced sensors that can detect a fall and automatically send an alert to the monitoring center, even if you can't press the button yourself. This feature requires the device to be worn as a pendant with the included lanyard for best performance.
Extended Warranty
Lively includes a one-year warranty against manufacturing defects with your device purchase. For ongoing protection beyond the first year, you can opt for an extended warranty plan for an additional $2.50 per month. This covers accidents, battery replacement, and normal wear and tear.
Accessories
Lively also offers several accessories for purchase to improve the device's usability, including wristbands ($7.99), belt clips ($9.99), and a lockbox for emergency personnel ($19.99).
Comparison: Lively Mobile2 Plans
Here’s a simple table to compare the two main Lively Mobile2 plans and see how the costs break down.
| Feature | Basic Plan | Premium Plan |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Monitoring Fee | $24.99 | $34.99 |
| Urgent Response | Included | Included |
| Ask Lively | Included | Included |
| Lively Link App | Included | Included |
| Nurse On-Call | Not Included | Included |
| Care Advocate | Not Included | Included |
| Fall Detection (Optional) | +$9.99/mo | +$9.99/mo |
Lively vs. Competitors: A Quick Overview
Lively's transparent and affordable pricing structure, coupled with its no-contract policy, often positions it favorably against competitors. Many other medical alert companies, such as the well-known Life Alert, may have significantly higher monthly fees and require multi-year contracts, leading to a much higher overall cost of ownership. Meanwhile, other competitors like Medical Guardian might offer more device variety but at a higher price point. For a broader view of the market, you can find comparisons on independent review sites like Medical Alert Buyers Guide, which can help inform your decision.
Lively's Overall Value
Lively provides strong value for those seeking a dedicated, simple-to-use mobile medical alert device. The core services are robust, and the option to add advanced health features or fall detection creates a customizable package. The flexibility of month-to-month contracts and a money-back guarantee within the first 30 days of service make it a low-risk option to try. For an active senior who is on the go, the GPS-enabled Mobile2 offers a reliable and competitively priced way to stay protected everywhere.
Conclusion: Making Your Decision on Lively Pricing
When assessing how much does Lively medical alert cost, it's important to look at both the initial equipment and activation fees, as well as the monthly service fees. Starting with a base monthly price of $24.99 and a one-time device fee, Lively remains a budget-friendly option, especially when compared to competitors with long-term contracts and higher rates. By considering your personal need for optional add-ons like fall detection or premium health services, you can find a Lively plan that offers both the protection and peace of mind you or a loved one needs without breaking the bank.
