Tracking device for elderly – Know where your loved ones are?
Caring for aging parents and elderly people is a greater responsibility, especially if they are with Alzheimer’s or Dementia. Safety is the number one priority for those with such conditions as they might get lost or become disoriented even if they are in a familiar environment.
Therefore, it is important to keep a track of them and to know their whereabouts. This is where a tracking device comes in handy, it lets you know that your loved ones are safe and away from any danger. Markets are now flooded with such devices hence you wouldn’t find it difficult in getting one, however finding the right one can be hard.
Worry not! Follow our guide to know what to look for in a tracking device for elderly with dementia or Alzheimer’s.
How do tracking devices for elderly works?
Before we go in to the shopping sphere, I would like you to know how a personal tracking device for elderly works and the technologies used in it.
The tracker is usually a dedicated device that comes in the form of a wristwatch, bracelet, or a pendant. Some devices also let you attach it to clothing, shoes or lanyards. The wearer needs to carry it with them whenever they are going out on their own and if they get into some unfortunate situation then they can use the tracker to send alerts and let the caregiver know their exact location instantly.
A tracker usually uses GPS technology which in fact uses the process called “Triangulation” to pin-point a location. The tracker device also comes equipped with a sim card that lets the caregiver receive message with all the important information of their elderly loved ones including their exact location. Some GPS trackers for elderly also lets you have a two-way conversation as well.
You might also find trackers that uses Radio Frequency (RF), Bluetooth or even Wi-Fi, however such trackers are not beneficial for tracking elderly due to distance limitation; rather they are useful for tracking keys, pets and wallets.
Phone with tracking app vs Dedicated GPS tracker
A common question that I get from people who live with seniors with dementia or Alzheimer’s is that “My parents uses a mobile phone with a tracking app installed in to it, do they need a dedicated GPS tracker device? “
I say a definite YES! Because tracking elderly people with dementia or Alzheimer’s was totally different from tracking common people. Seniors with such conditions often time forget their phones or in some cases they might not be able to use it during emergencies. Therefore, a dedicated tracking device makes sure your loved ones actually has it always.
How to choose the Best GPS tracking device for elderly?
Are you looking for a GPS tracking device for your loved ones living with Alzheimer’s or Dementia? Following are the features you need to look out for in a GPS elderly tracking system.
- Size and Design: Always go for a GPS tracker that is portable and lightweight that won’t interfere with your elderly loved one’s day-to-day activities. Make sure the device is rugged and waterproof as well.
- SOS Alert Button: A very important feature you should look out for while buying a GPS tracking device for elderly is SOS button. It lets your loved one communicate with you when in trouble with just the press of a button. You’ll receive calls or text message with their location immediately.
- Safe Zone: This feature lets you set Geo-fences without compromising the independence of your loved ones. You’ll receive alerts or message when they leave or enter predefined safe zone area.
- Fall Alert: With “Fall Alert” you’ll get a message whenever the device detects a fall, a very crucial feature to ensure the safety of your loved ones. Not all GPS tracking device has the “Fall Alert” feature, so find one that comes with it.
- Preprogrammed numbers: Look out for a GPS tracking device that lets you add more than one number to its pre-programmed dial list. With this feature the device will send alerts to multiple numbers so even if you miss any alerts from your loved ones there’ll be someone from your family to track it.
- LIVE Tracking: With live tracking feature you’ll be able to see where your elderly loved one is in real time. You can also see the history of the places they have been. This feature is mostly subscription based.
- Battery Life: A typical GPS tracking device offers about a week to ten days of battery life depending upon the usage. Go for one that has rechargeable battery.
- Cost: The GPS elderly tracking device alone will cost around $180 to $300, and additional subscription charges apply depending on features like live tracking.
Conclusion:
If you want your elderly loved ones with Dementia or Alzheimer’s to feel safe? Then it is a great idea to have a GPS tracking device. It helps you locate your loved ones instantly without restricting their freedom. Technology can help people with such conditions to certain extent, but only true human love and care will make them happy.
