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I'm an active elder but live alone so am thinking I should get some kind of emergency call system, both for when I'm home and when I'm out and about. I already use a fitbit watch, so am thinking a smart watch with fall detection might be a good idea. I have an Android phone (Samsung) so Apple watch wouldn't work. I've heard mixed reviews about fall detection watches. However, I like the idea of a multi-functional device rather than a dedicated fall detection/emergency call system that requires an additional paid subscription.

If you're looking for a fall detection watch that works with your Android phone, you might want to check out MedAlertCare.com’s medical alert watch. It’s designed for active seniors like you who want emergency protection at home and on the go—without being tied to a bulky system. It offers fall detection, GPS tracking, and 24/7 emergency assistance, all in one device. Plus, it functions as a regular watch, so you won’t have to carry multiple gadgets. Definitely worth considering if you want both safety and convenience.
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Reply to marygloria13
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We got a Kanega Watch for my Dad. I did a ton of research and felt confident that how the company built its fall detection was different and better than anything else out there. We looked into the Apple Watch for him, but Apple clearly states that the AW only activates on "hard falls" and I was concerned that my Dad could fall in a way that wasn't hard (like I might fall) but still really hurt himself. Also, the Apple Watch waits a minute after you fall to do anything and, if you move even a little bit during that minute, the alert system is disabled. Not very comforting. My Dad has had two falls since he got his Kanega Watch, which he wears all the time, and the watch activated on both and the agent sent EMS to his home without him having to do anything. I got it for him before the Wirecutter review that rated the Kanega Watch its top pick (the watch caught all their test falls), which is even more comforting. I hope you find an option that works best for your loved one.
BTW, I found this to be a helpful resource:
https://bestfalldetection.watch/
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newbiewife Feb 9, 2025
The Kanega watch seems to be the winner, but it's pretty expensive--right now it's $299 to set up and $779.40 annually (or $79.95/monthly). It does come with Verizon cellular plan included, so works anywhere there is Verizon connectivity, so I think that's a plus. Can cancel any time, no contract, and if you've paid for annual can get a refund of unused months. I'm pretty seriously thinking of getting it.
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If you’re looking for a non-Apple fall detection watch that works with your Android phone, there are a few good options to consider. Many smartwatches now come with fall detection and emergency SOS features, but their accuracy can vary. Since you already use a Fitbit, you might want to check if their latest models include any safety features.

One solid option is the MedAlertCare.com medical alert watch. It’s designed specifically for seniors and active individuals who want reliable fall detection and emergency call features without needing a separate bulky device.

Unlike some other medical alert systems, this watch offers a discreet and modern design while still providing essential safety features. Plus, it works without requiring an expensive additional subscription like some competitors.
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Its dealt with in pretty good detail here https://bestfalldetection.watch/ The Kanega is by far the best apparently
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cwillie Jan 16, 2025
that's an interesting read but I can't help but notice all the other watches being compared to the kanega are fitness watches and were never designed to be fall detection devices, seems a little disingenuous
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I got the Kanega Watch for my Mom. Apple Watch would have been too complicated for her - to many features and the touch screen operation was a non-starter. She really likes her watch and the batteries means she doesn't have to take it off to charge, so she wears it all the time. She likes getting up in the morning and asking "Fred" for the time. Her home also has a tin roof, so most cell service is blocked, but the watch connects through WiFi in the home, which is super reliable. It's not cheap but worth it for us.
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Reply to Livingsum
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I find that Apple products are the most user friendly. I am not familiar with Android products.

When you find something that works well, please share it with the forum because I have seen this question asked on the forum a few times.

Good luck finding what you’re looking for.
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Reply to NeedHelpWithMom
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newbiewife: Try a Samsung Galaxy watch with fall detection.
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Reply to Llamalover47
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We got my Mom the Unali fall detection watch from Kanega. It's not cheap (and there is a not-cheap monthly fee). It is really nicely designed though. It looks like a handsome watch, which beats the clunky pendants that Mom wouldn't wear. The batteries have a charger and change easily without taking the watch off. It responds to a couple of voice commands ("Fred Astaire, Get Help" and "Fred Astaire, What time is it?" so you get used to how to talk to it before you need help.) We've had two false alarms which gave us a good sense of how they work. The phone has cell service, and the call center tried talking through the watch first - "Do you need help?" sorry if thing. If no answer, they call the contact(s) you provide. They say the AI fall detection improves over time as it gets told what was a false alarm.
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Reply to anne02
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My neuro oncologist recommended the Apple series 7smart watch. The day after I got it, I had a seizure and dropped to the floor hitting my head. The fire department was her within minutes as well as another emergency contact. I would highly recommend it if falls are a risk,
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Looks like a scab in our thread. Used in employment realm.
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Reply to AdVinn
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Samsung Galaxy watches have a fall detection capability. You do have to turn it on, and it will send out emergency text for the person to be checked on. The watch can also be used for a call if your phone is close. We chose to purchase the bluetooth watch and not the one with cellular service.
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WearyJean Jun 14, 2024
I also have a Samsung Galaxy watch with fall detection. It's great! It is synced up with my Android phone. If I fall, it asks if I need emergency services.
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I hope that you will share with this group if you find such a watch.
However, if you can't find one I would strongly recommend the Apple. Two weeks ago my husband took a fall on our carport. He couldn't get up... yelled for me but I was in the shower in the back of the house and could not hear him. The apple watch automatically came on and asked him if he had fallen. He told them yes and they immediately contacted a fire department and two EMT's were sent.
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Reply to Hedgie
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Great idea
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