A device consisting of a portable battery-powered help button and a machine that automatically dials a monitoring station. The device is connected to the individual’s telephone or to a phone jack. When the system is activated, it either allows a two-way communication between the monitoring station and the individual or alerts the station personnel to phone the individual. In the latter case, if there is no response the station may call a neighbor or family member or dispatch emergency medical technicians to the person’s home.