If your elderly loved one is showing signs of memory loss or has dementia, the thought of them getting lost or “straying” is a big concern. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, six out of 10 people with dementia wander at least once — and some do it repeatedly.
While you can’t rule out the risk of your senior straying or getting lost, there are technologies — like GPS trackers for seniors — that have emerged as possible solutions. These gadgets can help your loved one maintain their independence while allowing you to monitor their location, activities, and safety.
What are GPS trackers for seniors?
GPS trackers for seniors are small, discreet devices that attach to your loved one’s clothing, belongings or accessories and can accurately track and monitor their real-time whereabouts on a map. Much like GPS apps on your phone or in your car, the tracking devices coordinate with satellites to pinpoint your senior’s exact location at all times.
GPS trackers can also send you timely alerts when your loved one leaves or leaves their home, a predefined boundary or “safe zone”. Some come with emergency buttons that your senior can press if they get lost or need help.
What Types of GPS Trackers Are There for Seniors?
Smartphones with GPS capabilities are popular and can help you locate a missing elderly adult. However, the technology is only helpful if your elderly loved one physically carries a smartphone with them and it is properly configured to enable tracking capabilities.
Today’s GPS tracking technology goes beyond smartphones and offers numerous options for seniors and family members. Options include:
- Bracelet Alarm Systems
These systems include a bracelet worn by your senior that sends an alarm signal if your senior leaves a pre-determined “safety zone”. Some of these alarm systems require registration with a local public safety agency and allow you or a caregiver to alert first responders if your senior is lost or suddenly falls.
- Smart Watches
A smartwatch is an ideal GPS tracking solution if your loved one is used to wearing a watch. Most smartwatches allow you to pair them with an app on your phone to track your senior’s movements remotely. In addition, smartwatches can provide other valuable health data, including heart rate, sleeping habits and activity levels.
- Wearables and Attachables.”
If your senior cannot tolerate wearing a watch or bracelet, other systems are available that can be clipped to clothing or shoes, clipped to a keychain, or kept in a pocket or purse. These devices can be synced with a smartphone app that offers real-time mapping and may include other features such as two-way voice capabilities, boundary alerts, panic buttons and more.
What should I consider when looking for GPS tracking devices?
When looking for GPS tracking systems for your senior, consider the following factors to help you decide which system is best:
- Costs
Don’t forget to include the activation and subscription fees along with the system cost to get the total cost of the system.
- Area
By considering where your seniors are traveling, you can decide whether you need local, regional, national, or global coverage. You should also consider whether the system will allow you to set boundaries and receive notifications when the perimeter is breached.
- warnings
Some systems offer text and email notifications, while others use an app-based alert system. You should decide whether the type of warnings, e.g. B. Battery, speed, movement and limit alerts, meet the needs of your loved ones.
- data access
Although most systems use satellite connections to determine the location of your loved one, some may require cellular or internet service to access the app or use the tracker.
A professional caregiver is another option
Although choosing a GPS tracking system for your loved one can help improve their safety and give you peace of mind, having a professional caregiver by your loved one’s side can drastically reduce the risk of them getting lost or getting lost.
If your loved one needs dementia care or is showing signs of memory problems, contact a Visiting Angels near you to learn more about personalized home support.
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