What is the "Saved a Life Every 11 Minutes" Claim?
Since its founding in 1987, Life Alert has been a prominent name in the personal emergency response system (PERS) industry, largely due to its memorable "I've fallen and I can't get up" commercials. A core part of their marketing is the claim, often seen on their website, that they save a life from a potential catastrophic outcome every 11 minutes. This bold and memorable statistic is meant to instill a strong sense of trust and urgency in potential customers, particularly the elderly and their family members who worry about living alone.
According to Life Alert's own material, the company handles millions of calls annually and uses this call volume to generate its saving statistics. The company defines a "catastrophic outcome" broadly, which consumer advocacy groups argue may include many non-life-threatening events, potentially inflating the 'lives saved' figure.
The Investigation into the Life Alert Marketing Claim
While the 11-minute claim is highly effective marketing, it has drawn scrutiny from consumer advocates and journalists. For example, the organization TINA.org (Truth in Advertising) has investigated the numbers behind the claim. Their investigation noted a discrepancy between the total calls received and the number categorized as 'life-threatening emergencies,' suggesting a significant gap between the advertised figure and a literal interpretation of 'saving a life' from imminent death.
Past legal challenges have also cast a shadow on the company's marketing practices. In the early 1990s, Life Alert faced legal action for allegedly making misleading claims about priority access to 911 services, which was not accurate. The outcome included restitution payments and restrictions on advertising. More recently, the company has faced scrutiny and lawsuits over its contract terms and cancellation policies, with one lawsuit alleging the company continued to charge customers after cancellation.
How a Medical Alert System Actually Works
Regardless of specific marketing claims, a medical alert system functions as a crucial safety net for seniors and those with medical conditions. Most systems operate on a simple principle:
- Activation: The user presses a help button, worn as a pendant or wristband, in the event of an emergency.
- Two-Way Communication: This action connects the user to a 24/7 monitoring center staffed by trained operators. Some systems also feature a two-way speaker on a base station at home.
- Assessment and Dispatch: The operator assesses the situation through the two-way communication. If the user is unresponsive or in distress, the operator dispatches appropriate help, such as paramedics, firefighters, or police, to the user's location, often using GPS technology for mobile units.
- Family Notification: The operator will also notify pre-designated family members or caregivers, offering peace of mind to loved ones.
Medical Alert Systems vs. The Life Alert Model
When choosing a medical alert system, it's important to look beyond marketing and compare features and policies. Life Alert, while a well-known brand, uses an older business model compared to many modern providers.
| Feature | Life Alert | Modern Competitors (e.g., Medical Guardian, Bay Alarm Medical) |
|---|---|---|
| Contract Length | Requires a restrictive three-year contract. | Typically offer flexible month-to-month contracts, allowing cancellation at any time. |
| Automatic Fall Detection | Does not offer this feature on its devices. | Most offer optional automatic fall detection, which can be critical if a user is unable to press the button. |
| GPS Tracking | Available only on its mobile system, which may be more expensive. | Common feature on mobile devices, helping responders pinpoint a user's location anywhere. |
| Equipment | Often described as dated, with some using older cellular networks and non-rechargeable batteries. | Devices feature modern designs, faster network connectivity (e.g., 4G/LTE), and advanced features like smartwatches. |
| Pricing | Higher monthly costs and significant activation fees, with prices not clearly listed online. | Competitive, transparent pricing, with many offering affordable options and no activation fees. |
The True Value of Medical Alert Systems
Beyond any one company's specific marketing claims, the real value of medical alert systems lies in their overall benefit to users and their families. These systems provide a tangible layer of safety and security, empowering seniors and others with medical conditions to maintain their independence with confidence.
- Faster Response Times: In emergencies like falls, strokes, or heart attacks, every second counts. Medical alert systems provide a fast, reliable way to summon help, potentially mitigating the severity of an incident and improving health outcomes.
- Peace of Mind: For both the user and their loved ones, knowing that help is just a button press away significantly reduces anxiety and worry, especially for those who live alone.
- Cost-Effectiveness: While costs vary, these systems are often a far more affordable alternative to in-home caregivers or assisted living facilities, allowing individuals to age in place safely.
What to Consider When Choosing a Medical Alert System
To make an informed decision, it is essential to consider the following factors:
- Contract and Costs: Evaluate the total cost, including activation fees, monthly monitoring fees, and the contract length. Many companies offer more flexible, month-to-month options than Life Alert's three-year contract.
- Fall Detection Technology: This feature is highly recommended, especially for those at risk of falling, as it can automatically alert help even if the user is unable to.
- GPS Capabilities: For active users who spend time outside the home, a mobile system with GPS tracking is a vital feature to ensure help can be located wherever they are.
- Customer Service: Research the company's reputation for customer service, billing practices, and responsiveness.
- Equipment and Battery Life: Look for modern, reliable equipment with long-lasting battery life. Some newer devices, including smartwatches, offer more features and greater reliability than dated models.
Conclusion: Interpreting the Claim
While the "saves a life every 11 minutes" claim is part of a famous and recognizable marketing campaign, it should not be taken as a literal guarantee. Consumer investigations and past legal issues suggest the number is based on a broad interpretation of 'catastrophic outcome.' It is more of a powerful emotional statement than a precise, independently verified statistic. While medical alert systems, in general, are highly valuable and can save lives, consumers should conduct thorough research and compare providers based on current features, costs, and contract flexibility, rather than relying solely on a legacy marketing slogan. For further guidance on selecting a device, a review from an unbiased source like Forbes Health can be a valuable resource.
