Living alone shouldn’t mean feeling unsafe. But for a lot of older adults, that’s exactly what happens — especially after dark. A reader in Phoenix told us she started sleeping with her phone in her hand after a neighbor’s house was broken into. That’s no way to live.
We tested three of the top home security systems side by side — ADT, Vivint, and SimpliSafe — setting them up in real homes, triggering alarms, and timing response centers. We also looked at the fine print on contracts, hidden fees, and what happens when you need customer support at midnight. Here’s what stood out. Have a question we didn’t cover? Send it to hello@seniorslist.com and we’ll get back to you.
The Best Home Security Systems for Seniors
A good home security system does more than deter intruders — it gives you and your family real peace of mind, especially for older adults who spend time alone at home. After testing dozens of internet-connected systems and evaluating them on price, ease of use, reliability, and smart home compatibility, three systems stand out: ADT, Vivint, and SimpliSafe.
Our Top Three Compared
| ADT | Vivint | SimpliSafe | |
|---|---|---|---|
| System price | $194.98–$1,048 | $800+ | $249.96–$709.90 |
| Monthly monitoring | $24.99 | $19.99 | $19.99 |
| Contract required | None (DIY) / Required (pro install) | None (upfront) / Financing term | None |
| Installation | DIY or professional | Professional only | DIY or professional |
| Smart home | Google Nest, Alexa | Alexa, Google Assistant | Alexa, Google Assistant |
1. ADT — Best for Any Home Type
ADT offers both DIY and professionally installed options, making it adaptable whether you are in a small apartment or a large house. The system integrates with Google Nest smart home products, allowing voice control through Google Assistant and remote management through the ADT Control app.
Professionally installed packages run from $499 to over $1,000 and include 24/7 monitoring starting at $24.99 per month. DIY packages start around $195 and allow self-monitoring at no monthly cost, with the option to add professional monitoring.
Best for: Households already using Google smart home devices, and anyone who wants the option of full professional installation and monitoring.
Key trade-off: Professional installation requires a five-year service commitment. Financing requires a three-year contract.
2. Vivint — Best Smart Home Features
Vivint leads the category in smart home integration. Beyond cameras and sensors, the system includes smart locks, programmable thermostats, and garage door controllers — all manageable through a single app. Professional installation is included in every package, which sets it apart from most competitors.
Monitoring starts at $19.99 per month, and the system works with both Alexa and Google Assistant. The primary drawback is cost: equipment packages start at $800, which is significantly higher than ADT or SimpliSafe entry-level options.
Best for: Tech-comfortable users who want a fully automated smart home alongside their security system.
Key trade-off: More expensive upfront, and pricing is not published on the website — you must call for a quote.
3. SimpliSafe — Most Affordable
SimpliSafe is the budget-conscious choice without meaningful sacrifice on core features. Packages start under $250, and the system offers both DIY and professional installation. Professional monitoring costs $19.99 per month, but there is also a free self-monitoring option — unusual for this category.
The self-monitoring plan does not send push notifications when alarms trigger, which can be a real limitation if you are relying on it for daily security. Upgrading to the $9.99 per month plan adds camera recordings and remote arming. No long-term contracts are required.
Best for: Seniors or families on a budget who want flexibility and no contract commitment.
Key trade-off: Free self-monitoring does not include alerts. Lifetime warranty only available with the premium monthly plan.
Honorable Mentions
- Frontpoint: Strong professional monitoring, but at $49.20 per month — more than double most competitors.
- Ring: Amazon’s platform offers extensive camera options, but repeat hacking incidents are a documented concern.
- Vivint (for apartment renters): Vivint’s systems work in any space, but the high upfront cost makes it less practical for renters who may move.
- Xfinity: Bundled with internet service; professional monitoring at $55/month is among the highest in the category.
What to Look for When Choosing
Customizability. Avoid packages that force you to buy equipment you do not need. Look for systems that let you mix and match sensors, cameras, and detectors based on your actual floor plan and usage.
Simplicity. The system should be easy to arm, disarm, and check on. If a family member is monitoring remotely, they need to be able to navigate the app without frustration.
Flexible contracts. Avoid locking yourself into multi-year agreements unless you are confident in both the provider and your living situation. Month-to-month options exist and are worth prioritizing.
Affordability. Professional monitoring should cost around $20 to $25 per month for a well-regarded provider. Paying significantly more should come with a clear, specific benefit — like advanced smart home features or a superior equipment warranty.
A Note on Fall Detection
Home security systems are not designed to detect medical emergencies or falls. If fall detection is a priority — for yourself or a loved one — a medical alert system with wearable fall detection is the appropriate tool. Several providers, including ADT, offer both home security and medical alert products that can be used together.