Best Medical Alert Smart Watches for Seniors


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Updated: February 25, 2023

medical alert smart watch

Medical alert smart watch technology can be especially intriguing to on-the-go, active older adults

Thanks to advancements in technology and new approaches to healthcare, today’s older adults have a variety of options when it comes to staying safe and meeting their wellness goals. Medical alert smart watches are somewhat new to the medical alert system scene, and they are being met with a lot of enthusiasm from seniors and their family members. You can read more about them in our Medical Guardian reviews.

Here’s what you need to know about some of the best medical alert smart watches for older adults, along with how to choose one that will work for your specific situation.

Benefits of Medical Alert Smart Watches

One of the drawbacks of the more traditional medical alert system is the emergency button which is typically found on a lanyard or necklace. Even the most discreet options can still deter younger seniors, and there simply are not enough features to entice active adults to use them.

Medical alert smart watches are the answer to many of these drawbacks, offering emergency assistance with the push of a button right on your watch. Smart watches aren’t just for medical emergencies though. There are features that range from fall detection to checking text messages to monitoring heart rate and more.

Best Medical Alert Watch Devices

medical alert smart watch

You have a few choices when it comes to excellent medical alert smart watch solutions.

If you are in the market for a smart watch with medical alert capabilities, you are fortunate to have a variety of choices. While having many options can feel overwhelming at first, you are also more likely to find one that suits your specific situation and needs.

The Freedom Guardian watch is one of the products from the Medical Guardian medical alert system, an industry staple in medical alert technology.  We love the high-resolution display as well as the text-to-speech messaging option. It’s easy to request help by pushing the red button on the side of the watch, but there are also other health-enhancing features like heart rate monitoring. We also like that the watch can help with finding the user thanks to GPS, WiPS, and triangulation in case of an emergency.

Apple has also recently developed fall detection technology and since Series 4 have been gaining popularity with older adults. The Apple Watch is ideal for the tech-savvy senior who wants to stay connected to their messages while out and about as well as track their steps or fitness activity. But the Apple Watch also uses technology to detect potential falls and checks in with the user or even dials 911 on its own when needed.

The Lively Wearable watch from GreatCall is another option that is discreet and quite easy to use. The watch works with an app on your smartphone, which makes contacting emergency assistance even easier. The watch also features fall detection technology.

Choosing a Smart Watch 

A smart watch is an excellent option for seniors of any age and ability, but especially for those who are active, out and about often, and who want to have the option to monitor other parts of their health. Here are a few questions to ask when deciding which medical alert smart watch might be best for your situation now as well as in the foreseeable future:

  • Can I easily navigate the watch and its features?
    While it always takes some time to get used to a new device, you want to be sure you will be able to navigate the watch and features prior to purchasing. If you have arthritis or fine motor challenges, look for a watch that has buttons or screens you can use with ease.
  • Can I change the font to be bigger if needed?
    Anyone living with vision challenges could struggle with seeing the messages on a watch screen. Double check to see if there is an option to increase font size or change the lighting in order to make it easier for you to see.
  • Is fall detection included, and what happens if a fall is detected?
    Fall detection technology ensures that the user doesn’t have to push a button to receive help. This is especially crucial if a fall renders a senior unconscious, injured, or otherwise unable to physically push a button for help. Find a watch that has fall detection technology and make sure you know what happens if a fall is detected.
  • How often do I need to charge the watch?
    Smart watches are like any smart device – they need to be charged somewhat regularly in order to work. Ensure you know how long the battery lasts and how long it takes to fully charge it. Then, decide when you will feel safe enough to take the device off and put it on the charger.
  • What if I don’t need all the extra features?
    Smart watches offer additional features that keep you connected to your text messages or monitor your fitness. If you only want a watch to use for medical assistance, you might not want a smart watch at all. Instead, you might choose to find a medical alert system that has an emergency button that can be worn on the wrist like a watch. This is a great choice that eliminates needing to learn new technology but may only work while inside your home and not while you’re out and about.

Next Steps

Smart watches can be the perfect solution for older adults who want the extra peace of mind that they have an easy way to contact help if they need it, without wearing a cumbersome lanyard. You are well on your way to making an excellent decision on your smart watch purchase!