GPS Tracking for Seniors

The vibrant community of Coral Springs offers seniors a wonderful place to live, but for families with loved ones experiencing memory loss or dementia, the fear of wandering is a constant concern. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, 60% of people with dementia will experience at least one episode of wandering. If you’ve been searching for a way to reduce the likelihood of your loved one getting hurt or lost for extended periods of time while wandering, you should know that GPS trackers for elderly people with dementia are available. A GPS tracker can help you keep tabs on your loved one’s location while still allowing them to enjoy a sense of independence.

How Does GPS Tracking for Seniors Work?

Modern technological advances have made GPS tracking devices small and discrete enough to be easily placed in clothing, a keychain, or a bag. By giving one of these devices to your senior loved one, you’ll be able to get real-time location data to ensure that they are safe and not wandering away from home or other safe places. You can even set up alerts with certain GPS trackers so that you’ll immediately receive a notification if your loved one leaves their designated safe environment. 

What Types of GPS Trackers Are Available for Seniors?

The simplest way to track your loved one via GPS is to use a smartphone. However, many seniors with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia forget to carry their phone on their person or no longer carry a phone at all. Thankfully, there are many other options for equipping your loved one with a GPS-tracking device. 

• Wristband alarm systems
  As the name implies, these devices are attached via the wrist and provide alerts when your senior loved one wanders. These wristbands offer easy-to-wear and constantly updating GPS tracking for dementia patients and other seniors with memory issues. 

• Smartwatches
  Smartwatches are widely commercially available and offer extra features in addition to GPS tracking. You can pair your smartphone with your loved one’s smartwatch to monitor their activity, see their location, and track other information. 

• Wearables and “attachables”
  Some seniors with memory disorders have sensory issues that make wearing a wristband or watch difficult. Attachable or wearable GPS devices can be placed on a keychain or stored in a pocket. Like a smartwatch, you can also pair your loved one’s attachable tracker to your smartphone to utilize two-way voice capabilities, boundary alerts, panic buttons, and more.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a GPS Tracking Device

If you’re looking for a GPS tracking system for your senior, there are several factors you should consider:

• Cost
  Assess the total cost of the GPS tracking device, tracking software, and any associated costs related to data usage or software fees. 

• Range
  Consider the range necessary for setting safe boundaries for your loved one. If your loved one stays in Coral Springs, then you’ll likely only need local tracking services. However, if they travel, you may need state-wide or national tracking. 

• Alerts
  How do you want to receive alerts when your loved one leaves their safe zone? Different options offer different methods of notification such as emails, in-app notifications, and text messages. Check to see if the device and software offer alerts for other things like battery level, heart rate, and movement speed.

• Data access
  Most GPS systems use satellite data to operate, but some apps and devices require cellular service. Ensure that you and your loved one can both have access to cellular service before getting one of these devices. 

How Can Visiting Angels Help?

While GPS units can be helpful, the best way to prevent wandering in seniors is to have someone watching over them. At Visiting Angels of Coral Springs, our team of professional dementia care providers can look after your loved one whenever necessary. We can also provide in-home care services to help them avoid strain and accidents around the home. 

Learn More About Our Services Today

If you are interested in finding out more about how our in-home caregivers can help your loved one stay safe at home, contact us today for a free in-home care consultation. Reach out to us today using our online contact form or by phone at 954-688-9342. We look forward to meeting you and your loved one!