Philips Lifeline

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?

Lifeline was founded in 1974 and 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.

In 2010, AutoAlert automatic fall detection technology was introduced. If there’s no verbal response after a fall is detected, the response center will summon emergency medical services.

In July of 2021, Connect America, acquired Lifeline, with Philips maintaining an equity stake in the company. Together, Connect America and Lifeline offer an enhanced personal emergency response system portfolio.