How much does a medical alert system cost in Canada?

Most plans run about $20 to $60 per month in CAD. In-home landline units sit at the low end, while mobile GPS units with on-the-go coverage cost more. Adding fall detection usually adds around $10 to $15 a month. Figures are illustrative for 2026.

Do I need a landline for a medical alert system?

No. Many systems now use a built-in cellular connection instead, so a home phone is not required. If you do have a landline, the landline plan is often a little cheaper. A provider can confirm which option fits your home.

What is the difference between an in-home and a mobile system?

An in-home system covers your house and yard and works with a base unit. A mobile system uses GPS and cellular, so help can find your parent anywhere they go. Many families choose mobile for an active senior who still drives or walks out.

Does the button work in the shower?

Most wearable buttons are waterproof and are meant to be worn in the bath and shower, where many falls happen. Always check the rating for the specific device. The base unit itself stays outside the bathroom.

Can a medical alert system help pay through insurance or tax credits?

Some private insurance plans and a few provincial or veterans' programs help with the cost. A prescribed device may also count toward the Medical Expense Tax Credit. It is worth asking your provider and keeping your receipts.

Are there contracts, and can I cancel?

Many Canadian providers now offer month-to-month plans with no long-term contract. Annual plans can lower the monthly price but lock you in longer. Before signing, ask about cancellation, refunds, and who owns the equipment.

Safety & Monitoring

Medical Alert Systems

A wearable button that connects to a 24/7 monitoring centre, at home or on the go.

Typical cost: $20–$60/month (+ optional $50–$100 device)

How much do medical alert systems cost in Canada?

In-home, landlineIf you have a home phone: $20 to $35 / month
In-home, cellularNo landline needed: $30 to $45 / month
Mobile GPS (on-the-go)Help away from home: $40 to $60 / month

Illustrative CAD as of 2026, billed monthly. What moves the price: whether the unit is in-home or mobile GPS, the equipment included, an added fall-detection sensor, and whether you pay annually or month to month.

Free, no-obligation quotes from Canadian installers.

Compare medical alert systems brands

The major brands sold in Canada, with where each one fits. We note real differences in service and reliability, not just price, so you can ask the right questions. Each quote goes to vetted local dealers.

Telus LivingWell

Medical Alert Systems

Made in Canada

Canada's largest medical alert provider, with bilingual monitoring and nationwide coverage.

Price tier: Mid-range
Monitoring: 24/7, EN and FR
Warranty: Equipment covered while subscribed

Best for: Families who want a trusted Canadian name.

Life Assure

Medical Alert Systems

Made in Canada

Canadian company with in-home and mobile GPS options and Canada-based response agents.

Price tier: Mid-range
Battery life: Up to 5 days battery (mobile)
Warranty: Lifetime equipment warranty

Best for: Buyers who want all-Canadian service.

Philips Lifeline

Medical Alert Systems

Most recommended

The long-established pioneer of medical alert, widely used across Canadian hospitals and home care.

Price tier: Premium
Monitoring: 24/7 monitoring
Warranty: Covered while subscribed

Best for: Those who value a proven, clinical reputation.

Bay Alarm Medical

Medical Alert Systems

Strong value with in-home, mobile, and bundled plans, popular for clear month-to-month pricing.

Price tier: Budget
Battery life: Up to several days (mobile)
Warranty: Standard

Best for: Budget-minded shoppers who want flexibility.

Galaxy Medical Alert

Medical Alert Systems

Canadian provider offering in-home and GPS systems with no long-term contracts.

Price tier: Budget
Monitoring: 24/7 monitoring
Warranty: Standard

Best for: Seniors who prefer no lock-in commitment.

Grants & funding

Most monitoring is a monthly subscription paid out of pocket; some provincial programs, veterans' benefits, or private insurance help. Prescribed devices may count toward the Medical Expense Tax Credit.

Home-accessibility grants & funding guide

Find local medical alert systems retailers

Pick your city to see medical alert systems retailers that serve your area, or use the form to request quotes and a Senior Care Path advisor will gather options from vetted retailers near you, free and no obligation.

Don't see your city? Request a quote and we'll find retailers serving your area.

See all medical alert systems retailers across Canada

What to look for in medical alert systems

In-home landline vs mobile GPS unit
Monitoring-centre response and certifications
Battery life, range, and waterproof wearables

Frequently asked questions

How much does a medical alert system cost in Canada?: Most plans run about $20 to $60 per month in CAD. In-home landline units sit at the low end, while mobile GPS units with on-the-go coverage cost more. Adding fall detection usually adds around $10 to $15 a month. Figures are illustrative for 2026.
Do I need a landline for a medical alert system?: No. Many systems now use a built-in cellular connection instead, so a home phone is not required. If you do have a landline, the landline plan is often a little cheaper. A provider can confirm which option fits your home.
What is the difference between an in-home and a mobile system?: An in-home system covers your house and yard and works with a base unit. A mobile system uses GPS and cellular, so help can find your parent anywhere they go. Many families choose mobile for an active senior who still drives or walks out.
Does the button work in the shower?: Most wearable buttons are waterproof and are meant to be worn in the bath and shower, where many falls happen. Always check the rating for the specific device. The base unit itself stays outside the bathroom.
Can a medical alert system help pay through insurance or tax credits?: Some private insurance plans and a few provincial or veterans' programs help with the cost. A prescribed device may also count toward the Medical Expense Tax Credit. It is worth asking your provider and keeping your receipts.
Are there contracts, and can I cancel?: Many Canadian providers now offer month-to-month plans with no long-term contract. Annual plans can lower the monthly price but lock you in longer. Before signing, ask about cancellation, refunds, and who owns the equipment.

Senior Care Path may earn a referral fee from some providers and a commission on some product links. This never affects your price, and our brand notes and rankings are editorial. Requesting a quote is free, with no obligation, and you can ask us to stop contacting you at any time.

Helpful resources

Cost planning toolsEstimate and compare costs with our free planning calculators.Home-accessibility grants & fundingEvery Canadian grant and tax credit that helps pay for aging-in-place changes.

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