Philips Lifeline
Our History
The story for medical alert systems begins with Lifeline.
Philips Lifeline was the first to provide a personal alert service in North America and has remained the number-one provider with the largest subscriber base to this day4.
How it began
In 1972, gerontologist Andrew Dibner, Ph.D., wondered, "What would an elderly person do if he or she were alone and needed help?" They’d call for someone, of course. But how?
Dr. Dibner envisioned a personal emergency response system and began developing the technology. Two years later, the concept became a reality, when he and his sociologist wife, Susan, established Lifeline Systems, Inc.
Dedicated to finding solutions that support the independence of older adults, the Dibners began selling Lifeline Systems. By the late 1970s, they expanded their business to hospitals and other healthcare organizations in the U.S. and Canada.
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Pioneers Wireless Button 1972Andrew Dibner, Ph.D., pioneers wireless emergency alarm activated by a button
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Lifeline Founded 1974Lifeline Systems, Inc. founded by Andrew and Susan Dibner.
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Dibner Awarded Patent 1976Dibner awarded patent for “Automatic Alarm System”
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Centralized Services 1980sShift from hospitals providing call centers to centralized service.
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Goes Public 1983Lifeline Systems goes public
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Philips Lifeline 2006Philips acquires Lifeline Systems and product line renamed Philips Lifeline.
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Fall Detection 2010AutoAlert automatic fall detection technology introduced
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AgingWell Hub 2015Collaborative group launches AgingWell Hub to research innovative solutions and services.
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GoSafe 2 Launched 2017GoSafe 2 is launched
Lifeline went public in 1983, enabling it to fund further technology and service innovation. Advancements included waterproof personal alert buttons that could be worn in the shower or bath6 — one of the most likely places for a fall. Response Center operations were centralized to provide world-class services for everyone using Lifeline.
In 2006, Philips acquired Lifeline, making it possible for Lifeline to continue to grow its U.S. market-leading service through Philips’ worldwide presence, technology, and innovation capabilities. The acquisition also expanded Philips’ presence in the global home healthcare market.
Continuous Innovation
Our commitment to iteration and innovation has led to even more technological advancements.
Wearable Options
Lifeline personal alert pendants and wristbands are lighter and more comfortable to wear.
Connectivity options
HomeSafe and GoSafe systems use the latest cellular technology to empower you or your loved one to call for help from any place in and around the house or away from home.3
Fall detection
Philips Lifeline's AutoAlert, available with both our in-home and mobile systems, features advanced automatic fall detection technology, providing another layer of confidence and protection for you or your loved one.2
Our Products
Wherever you go and whatever you do, Philips Lifeline has got you covered
At home
Our HomeSafe systems are perfect for people who spend most of their time at home.
Features include:
• Fall detection technology1
• Waterproof help button6
• Landline and cellular connections
• Pendants and wristbands
(wristband available with HomeSafe Standard)
On the go
Our GoSafe systems are perfect for more active adults.
Features include:
• Fall detection technology1
• Up to six location technologies including GPS
• Landline and cellular connections
• Waterproof help button6
Why more people choose Philips Lifeline
By constantly updating and improving our solutions, we’ve remained the top personal alert service.4 Click to download Philips Lifeline's Medical Alert System brochure.