Affiliate Disclaimer A GPS tracking device provides real-time location with the help of satellite data. GPS technology in tracking devices for older adults helps you figure out your loved one’s precise location. Today’s GPS devices come in many forms, and seniors can wear them all day.
Why is it important? Here are only some of the reasons.
- Every year, there are nearly 10 million new cases of dementia, the World Health Organization reports. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, six in 10 people with dementia will wander at least once. A GPS tracker for the elderly gives you real-time location updates and a useful geofencing feature.
- More than 88,000 victims over the age of 60 reported losses of $3.1 billion in 2022, the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center says. Phone tracker can help you monitor the device of the elderly remotely.
- Emergency Assistance: In case of a fall or medical issue, elderly individuals can use GPS/phone trackers to alert emergency services or family members. Some trackers come with SOS buttons for this purpose.
Top Pick Based on Our Research
🥇 AngelSense GPS Tracker Watch: Best GPS tracker for dementia patients based on users’ reviews. It is a reliable device with features like live location tracking, a 4G SIM connection, and an auto-pickup speakerphone.
🥈 Apple Airtag: Best Cheap Elderly GPS Tracker. It provides an easy way of tracking older adults since it’s cheap, and your elderly family member does not have to carry an iPhone.
🥉 mSpy: Best GPS tracking app. mSpy helps you track scam calls, spam sites, malicious calls, and suspicious notifications. Older adults are not good with phones, so it’s better to monitor what’s going on with their phones.
Main GPS Tracker Features For The Elderly
Types of GPS Trackers for Seniors
- GPS Smartwatches
A GPS smartwatch is a device that integrates a GPS receiver. It functions as a watch with smart functions and can be connected to a smartphone for management. Many GPS smartwatches double as fitness devices and can provide useful health metrics. - GPS Pendants or Necklaces
A GPS pendant or necklace includes a GPS locator in a wearable size. The necklace or pendant comes with an associated app for iOS or Android devices, so you can monitor the wearers whereabouts on the go. - GPS Bracelets
A GPS bracelet is an electronic device with a GPS receiver on your wrist. It allows you to locate its wearer in real time. GPS bracelets often integrate Wi-Fi and LBS positioning. - Clip-On GPS Trackers
A clip-on GPS tracker attaches to clothing, shoes, bags, and other personal items. They work hand in hand with apps for feature management. - GPS Tracking Apps for Smartphones
A GPS tracking app is an extended version of GPS technology in that it is an application you download on a device. The app receives cellular data to help with geolocation and relies on internet services to transmit location data. - Home-Based GPS Systems
A home-based GPS system includes a tracking device and a base station designed to contact caregivers or emergency services in an emergency. The system may also pair with an app or web portal for location tracking on the go.
Comparison of GPS Tracking Devices for Elderly
What is the best GPS tracer for the elderly? What are the pros and cons of using them? See all in our comparison table.
| Type | Best For | Pros | Cons | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GPS smartwatch | Live location tracking | Integrates fitness features Includes health metrics | A bit expensive Not all elderly want to use the extra features | $$ – $$$ |
| GPS pendant or necklace | GPS tracking with the help of multiple devices | Small and sleek No set up required | Battery may not last more than 24 hours Most lack an SOS button | $ – $$ |
| GPS bracelet | Tracking location and health metrics | Comfortable design Not easy to forget Most are waterproof and can be worn in the shower | They may need recharging often Most lack fall detection | $ – $$$ |
| Clip-on GPS tracker | Older adults who forget trackers | Can be worn with any clothing item Can’t be removed easily from clipped item | Require a companion app Most lack fall detection | $ – $$ |
| GPS tracking app | Detecting malicious phone activity | Easy to install Don’t require extra tracking equipment | Rely on an internet connection Requires compatible device | $ – $$ |
| Home-based GPS system | Alerting emergency services | Professionally monitored Comes with fall detection feature No worries about battery life | Some don’t have on-the-GPS tracking Range to companion device is limited | $$ – $$$ |
We took some resources from the top reviews of the best, and almost all of them were awful. So trust only verified sources of information or blogs of specialized services related to telecommunications. For example, like our HeyLocate blog.
Top Trackers for Elderly
These are our top-recommended trackers for the elderly in the above categories.
The intention of this article is to highlight popular GPS trackers for seniors and not to rank them. Each product listed offers unique features to meet diverse customer needs. It is recommended to consult a specialist when selecting the most suitable option.
AngelSense GPS Tracker Watch – Best for Live GPS Tracking
AngelSense was founded in 2013 by Doron Somer, who is also the CEO, and Nery-Ben Azar to improve the lives of kids with special needs. The GPS tracker grew popular and is now one of the best wearable GPS trackers for seniors too.
AngelSense has a 4.3-star rating on Trustpilot and over 240,0000 followers on Facebook.
Best for:
Monitoring elderly adults with dementia.
Price:
- $64.99/mo – month-to-month plan;
- $44.99/mo – annual plan;
- $49.99/mo – monthly plan with one year contract.
User Experience:
AngelSense GPS tracker watch packs advanced GPS location tracking features in a small, lightweight device. The kit comes with the AngelSense watch, charging platform, USB cable, and a quick start card.
The AngelSense watch is sensory-friendly. Your loved one can wear it without discomfort. Users on Reddit like that it can take a sim card, making it useful for seniors who leave the house without their phone.
AngelSense is definitely one of the best GPS trackers for seniors since it provides live location tracking. It offers additional safety features as it learns your loved one’s routine and alerts you when something unexpected happens.
I liked the SOS/Call request feature, as it notifies the caregivers and family members.
| Setup | Points | Verdict |
|---|---|---|
| Dashboard | 9/10 | Prominent features Intuitive dashboard |
| Safety | 9/10 | Private and secure High-level authentication |
| Effectiveness | 9/10 | Offers exceptional tracking features |
| Overall | 9/10 | Perfect safety solution for elderly loved ones but the month-to-month plan is a bit pricey |
Pros:
- maps detailed routes and timelines to learn a person’s routine;
- alerts you when a person exits a set boundary;
- 4G SIM connectivity for a senior who forgets their phone;
- accepts an unlimited number of caregivers.
Cons:
- month-to-month subscription is a bit pricey;
- only 60 free voice minutes per month.
Apple Airtag – Best GPS Pendant
Apple Airtag is a popular GPS-tracking device for finding everyday items. A popular way of using it is integrating with wearable jewelry such as a necklace. The Apple Airtag is part of Apple’s Find My network.
Best For:
Tracking a Senior in Real Time.
Price:
$29.
User Experience:
The Apple Airtag is a simple coin-shaped GPS tracker. You simply attach it to an Airtag necklace and have the elderly person wear it on their neck. If you can’t find them and want to know their location, all you do is use the Find My app to locate them. Remember that you need an iPhone to set up an Apple Airtag.
Reddit users recommend Apple Airtag for elderly tracking if you live in the same house or if the person always remembers to carry their phone. Apple Airtag works great when someone is not moving, but may be too slow if the target is moving due to losing Bluetooth connectivity. Its location is accurate as long as it is within 30 ft of someone’s iPhone.
| Setup | Points | Verdict |
|---|---|---|
| Dashboard | 9/10 | User-friendly app interface |
| Safety | 9/10 | Secure Bluetooth signal Anonymous and encrypted tracking |
| Effectiveness | 9/10 | Compact and easy to use Integrates with a huge network of Apple devices |
| Overall | 9/10 | Accurate and reliable tracker in densely populated areas but there are concerns about its potential for unwanted tracking and stalking |
Pros:
- no monthly fees;
- can connect to other iPhones via Bluetooth if the person forgets their iPhone;
- small size will not be a bother for seniors;
- you can share it with up to five caregivers or family members.
Cons:
- it does not have a hole to put a lanyard;
- the sound is not high; you may miss it when it’s beeping.
MGMove – Best for Medical Alerts
The MGMove is a smartwatch bracelet from Medical Guardian. The MGMove offers nationwide coverage through AT&T 4G network. Medical Guardian was founded in 2005 and is headquartered in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Best For:
Medical Alerts.
Price:
- $199.95 – bracelet;
- $39.99/mo – paid monthly or quarterly;
- 36.62/mo – paid annually.
User Experience:
MGMove is a medical alert bracelet and watch. All you need is to charge it, turn it on, and call to activate it. You will then configure the companion smartphone app for both iPhones and Android devices. It also has a web-based dashboard for caregivers.
I found that Reddit users like that it has a single button that you press to alert a Medical Guardian or a family member. Most GPS trackers don’t have a medical alert feature, so the MGMove is a popular GPS tracker.
MGMove GPS tracker for seniors allows to see the location of the loved one on the My Guardian portal using hourly updates. In addition, my elderly dad can organize his day, such as medication and any social events he wants. This feature is available with the Social Circle Apps package.
MGMove is convenient because it is water-resistant, and you can wear it in the shower. The battery life lasts 24 hours, so you must charge it daily. It’s also lightweight and comfortable, you can adjust the wristband for a comfortable fit.
| Setup | Points | Verdict |
|---|---|---|
| Dashboard | 8/10 | Full-touch enabled screen on watch Only two app screens |
| Safety | 9/10 | Top company in medical alert devices Abides by the US laws concerning collection and use of data |
| Effectiveness | 9/10 | Connects to an emergency responder in seconds |
| Overall | 8.3/10 | Excellent response time ensures it works when needed. However, it does not have an automatic fall detection feature |
Pros:
- it provides nationwide medical alert coverage;
- it has a messaging function to send messages to a caregiver;
- it reminds the user about important calendar activities;
- uses GPS and Wi-Fi assisted location services for precise location tracking;
- contacts emergency services within 30 seconds.
Cons:
- lacks a fall detection feature;
- using reminders, messaging, and caregiver portal costs an extra $5 a month.
Jiobit Gen 3 GPS Tracker – Best Clip-On GPS Tracker
Jiobit is an electronics company based in Chicago, Illinois. The company was founded in 2015 and was acquired in 2021 by Life360, a San Francisco company that creates mobile apps for family tracking.
Best For:
Long-Distance Tracking.
Price:
- $129- device;
- $14.99/mo;
- $12.99/mo – paid every six months;
- $8.99 – 2-year contract.
User Experience:
Jiobit clip-on GPS track is a small, rubbery eardrop GPS device. Jiobit can track an older adult over long distances, unlike conventional GPS trackers with range limitations. While you can use the integrated loop to wear it as a necklace with a lanyard, you can use the hemlock belt clip to attach it to a pocket or waistband.
Jiobit has a GPS/GLONASS receiver with omnidirectional antennas, a pedometer, and a temperature sensor. It runs on a 5G-compatible network with Bluetooth 4.1 and 2.4GHz Wi-Fi connectivity for real-time location tracking.
Parents like the Jiobit GPS tracker because it works incredibly well, and it gives them peace of mind.
Jiobit is the most straightforward wearable device. It only has a single button to call for help. It sent notifications to the designated care team, no matter the distance.
Jiobit has multiple location technologies, making it easy to see the exact location of the tracked senior. The custom geofences sent alerts when the person leaves the set areas.
If you have a loved one who constantly forgets to carry their wearable trackers, you can clip this GPS tracker to something you know they can’t leave without, such as their belt or keys.
| Setup | Points | Verdict |
|---|---|---|
| Dashboard | 9/10 | Quickly summarizes the current status of the Jiobit device Enters tracking mode when Jiobit is far away |
| Safety | 9/10 | Shares information from anywhere securely Uses government-level encryption |
| Effectiveness | 9/10 | Always available, automated security system Provides real-time location updates |
| Overall | 9/10 | Accurate live-location tracker for the elderly but lacks calling capabilities |
Pros:
- it has maps and directions to help with locating a lost loved one;
- allows you to customize alerts;
- gives you a visual of how far a senior is from your phone;
- it’s difficult to pry off from where you’ve attached it.
Cons:
- battery only lasts long if your Wi-Fi is strong;
- only a one-year warranty.
mSpy – best GPS Tracking App
mSpy is a mobile monitoring software by mSpy. It was started in 2010 by a London-based company. The app has a 4.29-star rating on Sitejabber and has 35k+ followers on Facebook.
Best For:
Monitoring Suspicious Phone Activities.
Price:
- $48.99/mo;
- $27.99/mo – paid quarterly;
- $11.66/mo – paid annually.
User Experience:
mSpy is a real-time GPS tracker for phone monitoring. After installing the app, it will sync the monitored phone’s data onto an online dashboard. The app uploads data every five minutes, allowing you to see the live location of the monitored device.
Redditors like mSpy saying it’s an accurate app to track someone’s phone activities. Due to my practical knowledge, I can attest that mSpy is the best GPS tracker for Android devices.
When I used mSpy, I liked its GPS location tracking since it showed the precise location on a map. It also stored the phone’s location history. mSpy could monitor all calls, messages, and even find other spy apps on the target device.
If your senior loved one is vulnerable to online scams, you can track their phone activities and stay ahead of scammers.
| Setup | Points | Verdict |
|---|---|---|
| Dashboard | 8/10 | Quick access to all features on the left Element features hidden to prevent cluttering the dashboard |
| Safety | 8/10 | 10+ years in the business Encrypts all personal data |
| Effectiveness | 8/10 | Accurate location tracker that keeps away scammers |
| Overall | 8/10 | Reliable and consistent phone tracker that monitors all the important aspects of an elderly’s smartphone. However, it does not have a free trial |
Pros:
- can help the elderly steer clear of phone scams;
- gives you the real-time location of the tracked device;
- it can see all the installed apps on the target phone;
- you can set geofencing zones and get alerts when an older adult leaves or enters the zone.
Cons:
- it’s not useful if your loved ones always forgets their phone;
- it can be tricky to install it on an iPhone.
LifeFone At Home & On the Go VIPx – Best Home-Based GPS Tracker
LifeFone is a home-based medical alert system with GPS. The LifeFone company was founded in 1976 and is headquartered in White Plains, New York. LifeFone gives caregivers systems to help seniors live independent lives. LifeFone has a 4.7-star rating on Trustpilot.
Best For:
Fall detection.
Price:
- $45.95/mo;
- $5- fall detection.
User Experience:
LifeFone at home and on the Go VIPx GPS tracker offers a location tracking device wearable as a pendant. It has a loud two-way speaker and unlimited coverage.
Reviewers on Consumer Affairs say they feel safer knowing they have it, especially because of the fall detection feature. When I tried this service, I found that I could find the device using either text message requests, a web-based portal, or the LifeFone mobile app.
LifeFone gives you peace of mind, knowing that your loved one can alert medical services in an emergency. Its unlimited range ensures they can send alerts from their wearable device anywhere in the house and alert their caregiver.
With the integrated GPS, you can see your loved one’s location on the companion app. If it detects a fall, the device will contact emergency services, contact a caregiver, or dispatch emergency responders. It’s an all-encompassed GPS system that does more than location tracking.
| Setup | Points | Verdict |
|---|---|---|
| Dashboard | 8/10 | Tracking features on a single window Single help button for simplicity during an emergency |
| Safety | 8/10 | Responds quickly to save lives Offers a lifetime warranty |
| Effectiveness | 8/10 | App locates device on demand |
| Overall | 8/10 | Offers an enhanced tracking experience for loved ones. Nonetheless, it does not come with important accessories like the lock box |
Pros:
- it has a fall detection feature;
- does not have an installation or activation fee;
- uses nationwide Verizon and AT&T 4G LTE cellular technology, GPS, and Wi-Fi;
- battery lasts up to 16 days.
Cons:
- warranty does not cover loss by theft or other damages;
- additional costs for the fall detection function.
If you don’t need to track a person all the time, but only want to check where your parents or another person is occasionally, you can use a phone number tracker. Enter the number in the form below and you’ll see how to do it.
Provide the Phone Number to Locate It Swiftly
- Number Tracking
- Phone Lookup
Conclusion
A tracking device for the elderly can offer older adults increased independence, locate seniors with dementia and Alzheimer’s, or help them alert medical services. The GPS trackers on our list are the most popular and reliable, according to our testing and research.
AngelSense is a top GPS tracker for seniors that can help prevent wandering and elopement. If a senior adult opts for a necklace, get them the Apple Airtag since multiple necklace designs accommodate the device. Finally, mSpy is a valuable app to prevent phishing and other scams that can happen to seniors.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The best tracking device for the elderly is considered the AngelSense GPS tracker for smartwatches, while the Apple Airtag is great when paired with a nice-looking necklace.
To track an elderly person without them knowing, use an app that works in the background, like mSpy GPS tracking app. It should be previously installed on the phone.
A wearable GPS tracker is the best option for an elderly person with dementia.
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