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ADT’s 12 monitoring centers secure homes and monitor medical emergencies for the older adults in your family.
Updated February 13, 2026
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Best Overall Security for Seniors
ADT’s professional installation, award-winning monitoring, high-end equipment, and flexible payment options make it a great choice for seniors on a fixed income.
Best Professional Installation
SimpliSafe’s easy DIY installation, affordable prices, and hands-on professional monitoring are some of the reasons why it consistently ranks high for customer satisfaction in the DIY category.
Most Affordable
Vivint has top-quality home security equipment, 24/7 professional monitoring, a best-in-class mobile app, and unparalleled home automation capabilities for tech-savvy seniors.
Best Overall Security for Seniors
Best Professional Installation
Most Affordable
Did you know that by 2030, 1 in 5 Americans will be of retirement age?1 With the country’s seniors becoming a major portion of the population, security companies have to find ways to cater to their needs. The good news is that some of the best security systems in the industry are ahead of the curve, with monitoring services and security features designed to keep older adults safe.
In our testing, ADT proved to be the most reliable with its network of monitoring centers specializing in both home security and medical emergencies. We also found that SimpliSafe, Vivint, Cove, and Frontpoint offer unique features suitable for seniors. Whether you're looking to protect your own property or help safeguard a loved one, you'll find something here that suits your needs, so keep reading.
From Anthony Travaglia, Retired Police Officer, Home Security Expert:
We’ve found the best way to make trustworthy and unbiased reviews is by testing home security systems ourselves. We buy all the equipment, install the devices in our homes, and test them extensively for weeks or months. This way, we can get a feel for what it’s like to live with the security system while assessing things like response times, features, and apps. We then share our experiences to make honest recommendations.
Several factors come into play when testing home security systems, so we look for ways to fairly compare them. For this review, we installed all the equipment in the same environment – a two-story, 2,200-square-foot home owned by one of our team members. Testing security systems in a real house gives us the most accurate results and helps us make better recommendations.
We also buy the same devices for every test unit and install them in identical locations. You can see the spots in the house where we frequently place home security devices below.
There are multiple factors to consider when choosing the best home security systems for seniors. Using our extensive experience in the industry, these are the factors we believe are the most vital:
Using these criteria, here is how we rated the top five security systems for seniors:
Rating the Best Security System for Seniors
We’ve all seen those websites that review everything from teapots to power drills. But you won’t find that at SafeHome.org. Our team of experts exclusively focuses on home security and safety equipment. It means we can spend more time analyzing systems and making more in-depth recommendations. The experts responsible for this review were:
Our team has over 75 years of combined experience, making us the most accomplished home security team online. Since SafeHome.org began in 2016, our work has been featured in several major outlets, including The New York Times and The Washington Post. Together, we have achieved:
Every recommendation is drawn upon our first-hand product experience and a thorough understanding of the security industry. Now, let's find out why we chose our top picks.
ADT has over 150 years of experience and serves more than 6 million customers. In our ADT review, we tested both professional and DIY installation, as well as outright purchase versus financing. The latter is helpful for anyone on a fixed budget. What sets ADT apart are its 12 monitoring centers, which respond instantly to security alerts and medical emergencies. Knowing this gives us confidence that our home—and the older adults in our family—are always protected.
ADT is one of the best professionally monitored home security systems on the market today. Couple that with their expert professional installation, and you’ve got a comprehensive security system that you’re rarely going to have to lift a finger for.
One of the ADT cameras, the Nest Cam with Floodlight, requires hardwiring, so we’re thankful ADT pro installers installed it for us.
One of our favorite features is SMART Monitoring’s group text alerts. In an emergency, a group text will be sent to everyone in the family circle, and any member can take action. A senior family member who lives close to us added us to her circle. We now get text alerts on our phone whenever a sensor is triggered. We think that’s a great setup whether you’re living with an aging loved one or providing care to a loved one who doesn’t live with you.
FYI: ADT has 12 monitoring centers across the U.S. and Canada. They don’t just deal with home security situations; they also offer medical assistance. You can learn more about it in our review of the ADT medical alert system.
ADT’s pricing structure offers flexibility for different budgets and needs. Equipment packages start at $269 for basic setups, while professional monitoring plans begin at $24.99 per month. If you’re adding security cameras and smart home features, you’ll want the Premium plan, which costs $39.99 monthly for self-setup systems or $49.99 for professionally installed systems.
Budget Tip: You can save a minimum of $99 on professional installation and $10 per month on professional monitoring by choosing one of ADT’s Self Setup packages.
The good news is you don’t have to pay for the equipment upfront; you can finance it and roll it up into the monthly bill. The bad news is you’re paying this bill for at least three years. Another option is to wait for an ADT sale or see if you’re eligible for a discount through memberships like AARP.
| Equipment Cost | Packages starting at $269 |
|---|---|
| Monitoring Options | Professional or DIY |
| Monitoring Cost | Starting at $24.99 per month |
| Contract Length | Monthly |
| Installation Options | Professional or DIY |
| Smart Platform Integration | Alexa and Google Home |
Originally designed to be the best security system for renters, SimpliSafe has since expanded its offerings to protect everyone in any kind of dwelling. That said, they haven’t lost sight of their DIY roots, keeping their equipment simple to install, easy to use, and affordable. SimpliSafe has also added innovative features like Intruder Intervention and Active Guard Outdoor Protection, in which SimpliSafe agents use the security camera live feeds and two-way audio to talk down intruders if they see one.
My SimpliSafe equipment, unboxed and ready to be set up.
When we reviewed SimpliSafe, the simplicity stood out to us the most. All you’ll need to do is follow the step-by-step instructions on your smartphone app and use the provided command strips to stick your equipment where you want it to go.
Pro Tip: Consider using the provided mounting hardware for the larger pieces of equipment, like the motion sensor and keypad. We found that the sticky adhesive wasn’t strong enough to affix them to the walls long-term. And if you’re adamantly against installing the system yourself, SimpliSafe offers professional installation starting from $125.
The SimpliSafe Base Station doesn’t look out of place on our shelf.
The base station is where your siren is going to sound if the system detects a problem – and that siren is loud. Ear-piercing, even. When we were testing out the system, it brought my next door neighbor out of their house. This makes SimpliSafe a great system for anyone suffering from hearing loss, including seniors.
SimpliSafe’s equipment and monitoring costs are competitive against traditional providers like ADT. For example, a wireless indoor camera with SimpliSafe is $149.99. What really sets the device apart from other cameras like Nest Cams isn’t just the price—it’s the advanced monitoring features that come with it.
When combined with the Core monitoring plan, SimpliSafe agents can access the live feed and interact with intruders during active alarms. This means you or your aging loved one won’t have to fend off intruders alone. The Core plan is $31.99 per month, but there are cheaper monitoring plans available, including a free self-monitoring option. Plus, you’re not forced to sign up to the most expensive option if you have security cameras, like you must with ADT or Cove.
>> Read More: SimpliSafe Pricing, Plans, and Package Costs
Installing one of SimpliSafe’s motion sensors.
FYI: SimpliSafe almost always runs some type of deal. We’ve seen packages slashed by up to 70 percent and free equipment thrown in. You might even get to try a month of the professional monitoring plans for free..
| Monitoring options | Professional and DIY |
|---|---|
| Installation | Professional and DIY |
| Smart platform integration | Alexa and Google Home |
| Equipment cost | Packages starting at $250.96 |
| Monthly monitoring cost | From $22.99 |
| Contract length | Monthly |
Vivint is one of the best professionally installed security systems available, offering white-glove service throughout the entire process. Every system is custom-designed for your specific property and security requirements. What makes Vivint particularly valuable for seniors is its advanced home automation capabilities that support independent living. Vivint is also one of the best security systems for Alexa and Google Home, allowing voice-controlled arming and disarming, plus automated routines like locking all doors at a specific time each evening.
Vivint handles the installation and explains how to work everything from the app or 7-inch touch-screen panel. While it’s a high-tech system with some of the best home automation we’ve come across, it is simple to use.
All the components of our Vivint home security system.
The Smart Deterrence feature stood out to us the most when testing Vivint. It’s similar to SimpliSafe’s Active Guard Outdoor Protection, but it’s more advanced. The outdoor cameras and doorbell cameras use video analytics to ward off would-be intruders. During our simulations, the outdoor camera shone a spotlight on us when we didn’t move on. Eventually, the ring light turned red, a strobe light flashed, and a siren began to blare. We recommend it to seniors who live alone and feel vulnerable to outside threats.
Since each system is custom-made, it’s difficult to give you an exact Vivint price. Our equipment costs were pushing $1,000. Add to that the $100 installation fee and required professional monitoring that will run you between $29.99 and $49.99 per month, and your bill can get pretty steep.
Pro Tip: You don’t need to pay for all your equipment upfront. Like ADT, you can finance it and pay it off in installments. We opted for two years, but they let you spread them over a maximum of five.
| Monitoring Options | Professional only |
|---|---|
| Installation | Professional |
| Smart Platform Integration | Alexa and Google Home |
| Equipment Cost | Starting at $199 |
| Monthly Monitoring Cost | From $24.99 |
| Contract Length | 60 months |
Cove is one of the best and most affordable no-contract security systems on the market today. The equipment is all designed with longevity in mind, and, similar to SimpliSafe, Cove is able to keep its costs low by having customers install the system themselves. But Cove is also similar to ADT in that you need to sign up for the most expensive monitoring plan for security camera support.
The biggest appeal of Cove is that it’s one of the most affordable home security systems available. When we were reviewing Cove, our test system cost us just under $300. When you consider that a Vivint system can easily cost three times more, it’s easy to see why a lot of folks looking to save rely on Cove to keep their families and their properties safe.
Here’s everything we got in our Cove home security system.
Similar to SimpliSafe, the installation process was a breeze. The app walks you through everything you need to know, and mounting the equipment was no problem for us. Another great feature for seniors is InstaText. When an alarm goes off, a text message is instantly sent to the homeowner. But, you can also add emergency contracts. So, the whole family knows to check in, similar to ADT SMART Monitoring. If no one responds, Cove will call the main contact and dispatch authorities within 30 seconds.
FYI: Cove offers professional installation through HelloTech. Prices start from $129. However, we don’t think you’ll need it. All of Cove’s equipment comes preprogrammed. All you need to do is choose the best spot to put them. The customer service team can even give you tips if you need it.
Cove might not have an extensive list of equipment, but when it comes to core functionality, Cove covers all bases. It’s also worth pointing out that they don’t offer pre-packed systems like SimpliSafe. But, this can be a good thing, as it means you’ll only get equipment you need.
Cove’s entryway sensors stand out more than those of other brands.
Keep in mind that you’ll need to purchase a monitoring plan with your Cove system. The basic package costs just $19.99 per month, and the more advanced package costs $29.99 per month. As we mentioned earlier, if you are getting security cameras, you’ll need the more expensive plan. A bonus is that Cove cameras have local storage options. So, you can save more money by not having to pay extra for cloud storage, which is $2.99 per camera, per month.
>> Check Out: Cove Pricing 2026
Product Stats: One of Cove’s downsides is its limited app functionality. You can’t even view live security camera feeds through the Cove app; you’ll need the Eufy app to do so. That can make things a little more difficult for caregivers hoping to use security cameras to keep an eye on seniors under their care. We recommend ADT instead because of its advanced security cameras with facial recognition.
| Monitoring options | Professional or DIY |
|---|---|
| Installation | Professional or DIY |
| Smart platform integration | Alexa and Google Home |
| Equipment cost | Packages starting at $99 |
| Monthly monitoring cost | From $17.99 |
| Contract length | Monthly |
Frontpoint offers the best of both worlds, with elements of both a traditional and DIY system. You’ll get great professional monitoring while keeping costs low with a DIY installation. They have exceptional customer service but allow for unlimited flexibility in the construction of your system. Whether this is your first home security system or your 50th, Frontpoint is likely going to fill in all the gaps.
Similar to Cove and SimpliSafe, Frontpoint is among the best DIY security systems in the industry. For our Frontpoint review, it took us around 45 minutes to install everything. As you can see below, the equipment is bulkier than some of the other security systems on this list, but it’s reliable. Especially when you combine it with a professional monitoring plan. The Ultimate Monitoring Plan can incorporate up to 50 sensors, which is handy if you have a big home.
>> Check Out: Best Home Security Systems for Large Homes
Frontpoint’s entryway sensor compared to a Ring sensor.
That is — everything but the entryway sensor. While it was easy to install and worked really well, the thing was pretty huge. That might not be a deal-breaker for some, but my partner cringed when she saw it mounted to our door frame.
FYI: All Frontpoint equipment has a three-year warranty. This is more than SimpliSafe and Cove, which are only 12 months.
Another useful Frontpoint feature is geofencing. It reminds you to arm and disarm your system based on your proximity to the house. If you know seniors who have a tendency to forget to set the alarm when leaving the house, this feature is perfect for them. They won’t even have to go back, they can arm it from the app.
Frontpoint keeps costs low by focusing on DIY installation. For a deeper dive, see our comparison guide on Frontpoint vs. SimpliSafe, as both are affordable DIY options.
On the website, Frontpoint lists one professional monitoring plan at $49.99 per month, comparable to Vivint and ADT’s premium offerings. You can also call to explore plans starting at $14.99, though lower-tier plans don’t include features like home automation, video analytics, or cellular backup.
>> Learn More: Best Cellular Home Security Systems
FYI: A bonus feature handy for seniors is storing personal emergency info with Frontpoint. You can add medical information and allergies to your account. If you raise a medical alarm, this information is passed on to medical responders so they’re prepared when they arrive on the scene.
| Equipment Cost | Packages starting at $99 |
|---|---|
| Monitoring Options | Professional or DIY |
| Monitoring Cost | Starting at $44.99 per month |
| Contract Lengths | Month-to-month |
| Installation Options | DIY |
| Smart Platform Integrations | Google Home, Alexa, and Siri |
If you’re a senior shopping for a security system or doing research for an older loved one, there are a few considerations that should be made when determining which system to choose. Some of those include:
Our ADT Glass Break Sensor is installed and ready to go.
As a group, seniors tend to live in lower crime areas and have tighter-knit communities. But that doesn’t mean they aren’t at risk, as our home security market research has shown:
>> Keep Reading: Home Security Statistics 2026
SimpliSafe’s Keypad is a great alternative for seniors who don’t like touch-screen panels.
From Anthony Travaglia, Retired Police Officer, Home Security Expert:
“Burglars don’t like to be seen or made known, so the louder the system, the better. Cameras and professional monitoring are also good ways to protect your home. Cameras allow law enforcement to identify perpetrators from the outside of the home and inside. If a burglary does occur and there is camera footage available, the solve-rate increases exponentially. And having 24/7 professional monitoring is the best way to keep your home protected while you’re away. The goal is to catch the criminals in the act, and having a reliable monitoring company can help get officers on the scene asap.”
Besides security, safety is one of the top concerns among seniors and their caregivers. Medical emergencies can occur at any time, which is why we recommend using a medical alert system. Unfortunately, we have yet to see a security system that can double as a medical alert system. There are some workarounds, though. For example, SimpliSafe offers a programmable panic button that you can set to trigger a medical alert when pressed.
Those workarounds aren’t as effective as a real medical alert system, though. There’s no fall detection, for example, so they’re less than ideal for older adults who are at a high risk of slipping and falling. Panic buttons from security systems also don’t work outside the home, unlike medical alert watches.
Of course, we understand that keeping two different types of alert systems that require a monthly fee can be expensive. We suggest getting in touch with companies that offer both types of systems, such as ADT. You might be able to get a good deal if you let them know you’re buying both systems. You can also check out our list of the best and most affordable medical alert systems.
Many seniors worry about contracts when buying a security system. Life can change quickly, and being locked into a long-term plan can strain a fixed budget.
The good news: several top systems don’t require contracts. Among our top five picks, SimpliSafe and Cove are completely contract-free. ADT also offers a no-contract option through its Self Setup program.
Some companies with contracts do offer flexibility for older adults. For example, Vivint contracts may allow termination without penalties under certain circumstances, such as moving into assisted living, financial hardship, or the passing of a loved one.
Ideally, seniors should choose a no-contract system. But if your preferred system does require a contract, read the fine print carefully to understand any exceptions or termination policies before committing.
Unfortunately, seniors are often targeted by thieves and scammers because they’re perceived as more vulnerable. While some burglaries are opportunistic, many involve perpetrators who specifically choose older adults, knowing they may be less able to defend themselves.
The most effective way to protect against these risks is a reliable security system that deters intruders and provides rapid response. In our experience, ADT excels with its extensive equipment lineup and award-winning professional monitoring. That said, SimpliSafe, Vivint, Cove, and Frontpoint also offer robust features tailored to seniors, helping them stay safe and independent at home.
S&P Global. (2024, Nov 14). 1 in 5 Americans to be 65 years old or older by 2030. https://www.spglobal.com/market-intelligence/en/news-insights/articles/2024/11/1-in-5-americans-to-be-65-years-old-or-older-by-2030-86270288
