Top 8 GPS Tracking Watches For Seniors- What’s The Best GPS Tracker For The Elderly?
The golden years of a person’s life should be filled with peace and independence. Unfortunately, for many senior citizens, degenerative diseases rob the elderly of healthy cognitive patterns. Diseases such as Alzheimer’s or dementia can present many challenges not only for the elderly persons impacted by the illness but also for the families and caregivers responsible for monitoring those senior citizens. This article will discuss the different GPS tracker watches for seniors to help anyone suffering from memory-related illness live a more safe, independent lifestyle.
Amazfit Smartwatch – Highest Rated Senior GPS On Amazon
Amazfit Smartwatch
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As tracking watches for elderly patients and active seniors, the AmazFit Bip 3 Pro GPS smartwatch cannot be beaten. At a distance, the large lettering and numbering on the watch face help the wearer to review health data and realtime location, making it ideal for those with poor eyesight. Replacing outdated and clunky home care technology, the array of additional features enables your elderly loved ones greater freedom to move about and stay healthy!
What we liked about the AmazFit SmartWatches:
- Fitness features
- Heart rate monitoring
- Sleep monitoring
- Realtime GPS tracking
- Large Letters on AmazFit Bip 3 Pro
What we didn’t like:
- No remote activity tracking
- Requires a paired phone to update locations
- No camera
Specifications:
- Wrist Size Min/Max: 153 – 218 millimeters
- Width: 22 millimeters
- Dimensions: 44.1 x 36.5 x 9.6 millimeters
- Weight: 33.2 grams
- Battery: 280 mAh, 7 Days (Heavy Usage) to 50 Days (Clock Mode)
PRODUCT | KEY FEATURES | SPECS | AMAZON RATING |
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| As of 3/14/2024 4.0 Stars | 4138 Ratings |
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AussieMom Positive Review |
Amazon.com Review - January 14, 2024 I got this for my son for Christmas. He wanted a smart watch but was unsure about which one to get. I saw this (sponsored) and thought it would be great for him as a starter watch. Well, he loves it! It has all of the bells and whistles you could ask for; you can answer your phone, use social media, email, heart rate, steps, etc. We both were so impressed with it. It's a great watch for a great price! |
John Y. Negative Review |
Amazon.com Review - December 31, 2023 This item was canceled because it was left in the wrong location. It was left in a mail box, and the price was too high. The mail box is not near my house; that's why it is left on the front porch. Why can't Amazon understand this? |
Check out an in-depth review by TheVerge.com on this smartwatch
Theora Connect – ALZ Store GPS Watch Recommendation
The Theora Connect GPS watch has received strong recommendations from notable care technology providers like the Alzheimer’s Store. Theora links users directly with their care provider, enabling fast action when help is needed most. An exclusive app provides communication features, receives realtime GPS updates, and notes when users exit safe zones as prescribed by the caregiver.
Theora Care’s significant advantage over other tracking devices is the auto-answer feature for two-way voice calls. Those taking care of Alzheimer’s or dementia patients can easily call in to provide reassurance if patients wander outside safe zones or forget to take their medication.
Other shining examples of why this is an ideal tracking device to protect those with dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, or other afflictions affecting memory are the proprietary locking clasps. Similar to the AngelSense GPS tracker, patients can’t remove the Theora Care watch without a specially designed key! Guarantee your loved ones’ safety no matter where they wander with this personal GPS tracker for seniors!
What we liked about Theora Connect
- Caregiver application
- Safety locking mechanism
- Cellular connectivity
- Auto-answer
- Live locations
- No contract
What we didn’t like:
- High initial cost
- High monthly fee
- Low battery life (24 – 30 hours)
- Specifications:
- Weight: 56 grams
- Dimensions: 44.4 x 52.5 x 13.4 millimeters
- Water resistance: IP67 (safe against splashing, rain, and quick dips)
- 4G Cellular Connection
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Check out real customer experiences on this senior safety product via the Google Play Store
Osmile ED1000 – Best GPS Watch With SOS
Osmile ED1000
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Our favorite feature of this product is the SOS buttons that are built into the real-time GPS tracking device so the user may quickly reach out for help in emergency situations. Having one built into the Osmile ED1000 tracker for the elderly assures the user can contact support if they fall or get lost. A 3MP camera is also included in the watch face to enable voice calls and situational check-ins by those taking care of their patients and loved ones.
Additional features that make this GPS smartwatch ideal for dementia patients and those in memory care are the flashlight, blood pressure monitor, and multi-language translator! In an ever-shrinking world, care recipients may find themselves encountering caregivers who do not speak the same language they do. The incredible translation feature of the Osmile ED1000 changes this dynamic by translating between various languages such as English, Greek, Chinese, Vietnamese, Polish, Russian, Italian, and more!
What we like about the Osmile ED1000:
- Remote camera activation
- Remote microphone activation
- Easy-access SOS emergency button
- Geo-fences
- Blood pressure monitor
- Multi-language translation
- Flashlight
What we didn’t like:
- 3-day battery
- IP67 splash resistance
Specifications:
- Battery: 650 mAh
- Weight: 53 grams
- Dimensions: 250 x 41 x 15 millimeters
PRODUCT | KEY FEATURES | SPECS | AMAZON RATING |
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| As of 3/14/2024 2.3 Stars | 3 Ratings |
PROS | CONS |
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Elizabeth S. Positive Review |
Amazon.com Review -January 5, 2024 I love everything about this—such a quality product that works perfectly and seamlessly with all my things. 10/10 recommend investing in this watch if you're looking to work out or improve your fitness with the new year! |
M. Lee Negative Review |
Amazon.com Review - October 1, 2023 This is a piece of crap that could never be connected to any device for monitoring. There is no way any senior with dementia or Alzheimer’s could handle this device. It took so long to get through customs that I missed the return window. Save your money and don’t buy this. Also, shame on Amazon for selling such a garbage product. |
MorePro – Best Senior Watch For Heart Rate & Blood Pressure Monitoring
MorePro
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Their large and high-resolution screens are ideal for people needing to track their health statistics with poor eyesight. When paired with a smartphone, this large textual display will also show messages from multiple social applications like WhatsApp, Facebook, and more!
What we like about MorePro tracker watch:
- 5-10 day battery life
- Price
- Hundreds of 5-Star reviews
- Receives calls and SMS
- Integrates with WeChat, WhatsApp, Facebook, etc.
What we didn’t like:
- Only one model with GPS tracking
- Must pair with a smartphone
Specifications:
- Battery: 300 mAh
- 20 sports modes
- IP68 water and dust resistant
- Bluetooth 5.0
PRODUCT | KEY FEATURES | SPECS | AMAZON RATING |
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| As of 3/14/2024 3.8 Stars | 2023 Ratings |
PROS | CONS |
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S C Positive Review |
Amazon.com Review -January 14, 2024 I ordered this product to help track my exercise routine. It also gives you your BP, heart rate, and blood oxygen level. It’s a nice fit, and the band is nice, as the excess strap actually wraps under the band so it does not stick out. |
Wilma Negative Review |
Amazon.com Review - January 9, 2024 I cannot believe what just happened with this fitness tracker!! Instructions read that you need to download their app to change your device's face, etc. There was a scan code in their box to use rather than going to their website. I used this scan code on my phone and immediately got a call from my debit card company asking if I authorized three places to withdraw money for products I would never buy! Now my card is cancelled, and I have to go get a new one. WTF??? |
AirTag – Smallest Personal GPS For Seniors
Apple AirTag
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Wristbands, belt hooks, and lanyards that match the AirTag are available from many retailers like Amazon. Yes, the GPS SmartSole might be a better fit in a shoe, but there are other things Alzheimer’s and dementia patients aren’t likely to forget, such as their pants, purse, or wallet.
While no monthly service fee sounds excellent, there is a catch: it requires a Bluetooth connection to update its location. However, any passing iPhone with Bluetooth turned on will become your ally in tracking down elderly loved ones. As you get closer, your iPhone will follow the beacon and show you a directional arrow to find what you thought was lost.
What we liked about the AirTag:
- Long standby battery life
- Trilling sound to help you locate the smart tag
- NO MONTHLY FEE
- Replaceable battery
- Low price: $29
- Personalization features: engraved with initials or emoji
What isn’t as great:
- Requires iPhones to find it (or a special Android app)
- No satellite connectivity
- Not covert – notifies nearby iPhone users if they’re being tracked
Specifications:
- IP67 environmental resistance
- Built-in speaker
- 1.26 inches diameter
- CR2032 coin cell battery
PRODUCT | KEY FEATURES | SPECS | AMAZON RATING |
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| As of 3/14/2024 4.7 Stars | 172,577 Ratings |
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Shannon Positive Review |
Amazon.com Review -January 8, 2024 Dog thefts have been up in the city I live in. These were purchased as a precaution, along with waterproof casing for both my dogs' collars. The AirTags ease my anxiety and worry, especially when new dog walkers come to walk everyone. My dogs wear them on their collars every walk as a just-in-case (but hopefully never ). |
Nicole D. Negative Review |
Amazon.com Review - December 22, 2023 They took forever to arrive, only to find out they were useless and already attached to another Apple ID. They were a “like new” price, but they really cannot be resold unless they’re already assigned to an Apple ID. Returned immediately. I'm still waiting for my refund! |
See What Real Customers Are Saying About AirTag Via Amazon Reviews
Apple Watch Ultra – Most Durable GPS Tracker Watch For Seniors
Apple Watch Ultra 2
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Of the Apple Watch series, the Ultra model is the first to provide specific additional features geared for seniors. Built-in fall detection and an 86-decibel siren were just some of the additional features included in this model, and with the Family Setup app, multiple watches can be paired with one phone to enable remote tracking of fitness and safety features.
Awesome features of the Apple Watch Ultra:
- Nav menu
- 4G GPS tracking
- 100m Water Resistance
- Raised edges to prevent scratching the watch face
- Improved compass
- Intense fitness tracking features
- Crash detection
- Fall detection
What we didn’t like:
- High cost
- Without cellular connectivity, only usable with Apple iPhones
- Short battery life
Specifications:
- IP6X dust resistant
- Always-on retina display
- SOS button Siren: 86 decibels
PRODUCT | KEY FEATURES | SPECS | AMAZON RATING |
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| As of 3/14/2024 4.7 Stars | 1019 Ratings |
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Charles R Schmidt Positive Review |
Amazon.com Review -January 12, 2024 I get 3 and a half days of battery life with this monster! It was really cool, and I put a big GShock-looking band on it, and everyone noticed. The always-on screen is the 5h1t and is clear and bright. It does do the blood oxygen stuff as well, and I am very impressed. This is very dumb not to upgrade to if you have the resources. |
Marilyn Negative Review |
Amazon.com Review - December 27, 2023 I returned the watch as it’s HUGE and needs to be recharged daily. Really? I thought the benefits of the watch would outweigh the conveniences, but I was wrong. I am purchasing a smartwatch with a 6-day battery life and all the perks. Also, Amazon has not refunded my money despite having the watch for less than two weeks! Customer service from India said I have to wait... first, December 27, but no, December 30, but wait, January 13th. Who knows when or if I will have my hard-earned money returned? DISAPPOINTED. Buy from a local store if you are smart. |
View real customer Google reviews on this smartwatch by clicking here
Amazfit GTR 3 – Best Fitness Tracker Watch For Elderly
Amazfit GTR 3
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Swimming is one of the most beneficial exercises for adults, young and old, and the AmazFit GTR 3’s waterproof design keeps its measuring activity down to 50 meters in depth. Pool swimming is one of the eight auto-tracked activities, too!
What’s great about the AmazFit GTR 3:
- Battery: 21 Days (Average Use) to 35 Days (Battery Saver Mode)
- Heart Rate Monitoring
- Sleep Monitoring
- Water Resistance: 50 Meters (5 ATM)
- Over 150 sports modes
- Price
What’s not the best:
- Requires smartphone
- No locking mechanism
Specifications:
- High Resolution: 454 x 454
- Weight: 32 grams (without strap)
- 450 mAh battery
- Bluetooth 5.1
- Zepp OS
PRODUCT | KEY FEATURES | SPECS | AMAZON RATING |
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| As of 3/14/2024 4.3 Stars | 6854 Ratings |
PROS | CONS |
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Muhammad Positive Review |
Amazon.com Review -January 12, 2024 I have always used an Apple Watch since 2018. The last Apple Watch I had for three years, I thought to upgrade to this one. It was well worth the upgrade. I love the huge display. The biggest thing is the battery life. I can easily get two days out of it. Where is my iPhone? I need to charge at least the 15 Pro Max at least twice a day. |
Chris Teix Negative Review |
Amazon.com Review - November 4, 2023 Very convenient to have. However, when you are on a call, you can hear a slight static sound that comes and goes enough to bother you. The person on the other line will hear you fine but will hear it when the person talks. Very disappointing. |
Medical Guardian Freedom Smartwatch – Best With 2-Way Voice Messaging
Reading small text and typing on a tiny keyboard have been the biggest annoyances to many seniors entering the digital age, but the Medical Guardian Freedom Smartwatch has a solution! With superior two-way call features and a unique voice-to-text mode, wearers can record voice messages to contacts in their social circle. Conversely, the GPS smartwatch will read out loud any texts received!
Maintaining contact with elderly loved ones is essential as they age and experience greater risks of falls, mixing medications, forgetting daily tasks, or getting lost. Activating this tracking watch with a subscription service opens up abilities to GPS track locations in realtime, connect with social apps, and share health data with family caregivers.
What we like about the Medical Guardian GPS Watch:
- Step counting
- Reminders (available with Social Circle apps package)
- SOS button
- Voice-to-Text and Text-to-Voice messaging
- Magnetic charging station
What we didn’t like:
- Short battery life: 24 hours
- Smartphone required for Social Circle apps package
- IP67 splash resistant
Specifications:
- Battery life: up to 24 hours
- Water resistant: IP67
- Weight: 2 oz
PROS | CONS |
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Learn how we test and evaluate security products by visiting our methodology page.
7 Features To Look For When Buying A Senior GPS Tracking Watch
As our parents age, memory can become frayed; typical behaviors like forgetfulness and frequently getting lost can turn extreme. Wearable GPS trackers are powerful wandering prevention tools that allow caregivers to GPS track the route their patients have taken. But what other features might they look for in a tracker for dementia or memory care patients?
- Fall Detection. Another aspect of getting on in years is the potential for a nasty fall, making fall detection a necessity. Some GPS tracking devices, like the AngelSense GPS pendant, can send automatic alerts, while others may require the user to press a call button for help.
- SOS Buttons. If a senior should fall, they may not be able to reach their phone to dial 911 or other emergency contacts. Choosing a personal GPS tracking watch may depend on whether it has a built-in button for getting that help. Often, pressing the SOS button on the side of a GPS locator watch face will sound an alarm to draw attention from passing individuals and notify first responders and contacts of an issue.
- Geofencing. First-rate tracking devices often have software caregivers can use to draw boundaries of safe zones on a map. An SMS text message is sent out as a memory care or dementia patient wanders across these boundaries. This alert quickly notifies caregivers so they can contact the patient through their phone or onboard call answering features.
- Home Monitoring System. Geo-fences marked off on a map may not offer detection tight enough to know when someone leaves the house; they may already be on the street by the time the boundary is crossed. Home alarm systems with door contact sensors and smart locks provide extra levels of safety detection. Alert systems like Bay Alarm Medicals’ GPS tracker for elderly persons are a great and low-cost home monitoring system designed to secure your peace of mind.
- Live Locations. How often will the GPS watch update? How far can you walk, run, or drive in five minutes? Real-time location tracking is only as good as the update interval speed; the more frequent the update, the tighter the detection range. Other methods of detection, like Bluetooth tracking on the Apple AirTag, use shorter-wave frequencies to direct users to the exact location of the mini GPS tracker.
- Medical Alerts. Fitness trackers like the Apple Watch Ultra or the AmazFit Bip 3 Pro have a built-in medical alert system to notify wearers or those remotely keeping track of potential medical issues like increased stress levels, high blood pressure, and missed medications.
- Price. Many of these GPS-tracking watches can be found on multiple sites. You may find them on the manufacturer’s site or places like Amazon, so look around and check price discounts whenever you see them.
Some images in this article,”Best GPS Tracker Watch For Elderly” were made using AI
5 Key Wandering Prevention Tips For Seniors
Portable GPS trackers give concerned family members and caregivers accurate locations of wandering seniors. This is a good thing! However, wandering prevention means more than simply investing in a personal GPS tracker. If your loved one is showing signs of Alzheimer’s or dementia, consider the following home care tips:
- Wearable Identification: The National Institute of Aging suggests you always have them carry ID or wear a medical bracelet. If they get lost and can’t communicate, an ID shows their illness and where they live​.
- Improved Home Security: Install locks and alarms. Consider keyed deadbolts or additional locks placed high or low on doors, and doorknob covers​.
- Hiding Trigger Items: Keep shoes, keys, and other departure signs out of sight. This reduces the temptation for them to wander​.
- Safe Environment Management: Encourage activities in a safe, controlled environment. This includes scheduled, supervised outdoor activities and safe indoor areas​.
- Community Awareness: According to the Cleveland Clinic, one of the best things to do is inform neighbors and local police about the individual’s tendency to wander. Sharing a recent photo or video can be beneficial.
Elderly GPS tracking watches are great for senior safety, but being aware of triggers and improving home security is also important when it comes to senior home care.
Best GPS Tracker Watch For Elderly- FAQs
Are Elderly GPS Tracking Watches Safe?
Of course! However, safety depends on your available options. Often, you’ll find options protecting against skin sensitivities or resisting water damage. Water resistance is also a key feature for some, and real-time GPS tracking is a major feature for others.
Do All Senior Watches Have Monthly Subscription Fees?
No, not every GPS tracking watch requires a monthly subscription. Still, models like the family of AmazFit devices will require a paired smartphone to be in the area to update locations or track fitness metrics. Any stand-alone GPS-tracking watch, however, needs an activated SIM card to connect to a cellular network.
Can I Monitor My Elderly Parents From A Distance?
Remotely monitoring mini GPS location trackers will normally require activated SIM cards connected to cellular networks to provide location updates. Yes, realtime GPS tracking services need a monthly subscription, but you’ll have access to a web portal or mobile app detailing every movement of the personal GPS tracker.
However, devices like the Apple AirTag operate with Bluetooth rather than cellular service and do not have a monthly fee. If your elderly parent carries an iPhone, you can also hitch this wearable GPS device to their pants or a wristband to track their movements.
Want to learn more about senior safety? If so, we recommend you check out the Alzheimer’s Association, Dementia Society of America, or the California Department of Aging.
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Contents
- Top 8 GPS Tracking Watches For Seniors- What’s The Best GPS Tracker For The Elderly?
- Amazfit Smartwatch – Highest Rated Senior GPS On Amazon
- Theora Connect – ALZ Store GPS Watch Recommendation
- Osmile ED1000 – Best GPS Watch With SOS
- MorePro – Best Senior Watch For Heart Rate & Blood Pressure Monitoring
- AirTag – Smallest Personal GPS For Seniors
- Apple Watch Ultra – Most Durable GPS Tracker Watch For Seniors
- Amazfit GTR 3 – Best Fitness Tracker Watch For Elderly
- Medical Guardian Freedom Smartwatch – Best With 2-Way Voice Messaging
- 7 Features To Look For When Buying A Senior GPS Tracking Watch
- 5 Key Wandering Prevention Tips For Seniors