A Caregiver’s Guide to GPS Tracking for Seniors With Dementia
If you have a loved one who struggles with dementia, you know how scary it can be. They may wander, get lost, or try to leave the house without supervision quite often. Fortunately, modern technology allows caregivers to keep track of loved ones with dementia easily.
You don’t have to worry when you know where your senior loved one is located at all times. Use this guide to learn the benefits and how-tos of GPS tracking for seniors with dementia.
Why GPS Tracking Is Beneficial
It might seem strange to use GPS tracking for seniors with dementia. You might feel invasive or uncomfortable keeping tabs on them with tracking devices. However, when it comes to your loved one’s safety, location tracking is extremely valuable.
Wandering Behaviors
Seniors with dementia often struggle with wandering and getting lost. They might forget where they are or where they’re supposed to be. As their cognitive abilities decline, they’re more likely to explore the environment and wander around outside. This can be very dangerous if they are unsupervised.
GPS tracking for seniors with dementia offers you peace of mind as a caregiver. You can always make sure your loved one isn’t outside wandering and getting into dangerous situations.
Confusion and Danger
Even if your loved one doesn’t wander or go outside of the house unsupervised, they can become disoriented in everyday situations. For example, if you are at a store or medical office, your loved one might become confused and end up talking to strangers who could potentially harm them.
GPS tracking allows you to keep tabs on your loved one at all times, so if you lose them in a public place, you can find them quickly before danger strikes. When it comes to your loved one’s safety, GPS tracking is your best bet.
How GPS Tracking Works for Seniors
You might wonder how you’ll be able to get your loved one to wear a GPS tracker at all times. Fortunately, there are many wearable devices on the market for this exact purpose. Some of them can be installed in discreet places so your loved one is unable to remove them.
Smartwatches and Bracelets
GPS tracker bracelets and smartwatches are great options for seniors who are generally agreeable to safety measures. If your loved one doesn’t mind this extra precaution, they can easily wear the device around their wrist and stay safe at all times.
Most GPS tracker bracelets come with built-in alert systems to notify caregivers when seniors have wandered away. You can even customize the range of motion you allow for your loved one. This makes walks in the park and other outdoor adventures more relaxing and enjoyable for both of you.
Shoe Inserts
If your loved one with dementia is resistant to being tracked or you believe they might take off a bracelet tracker, shoe inserts are the way to go. They won’t feel the tracker or remember that it’s present, so you can always collect their location for security purposes.
Specialized shoe inserts offer GPS tracking for seniors with dementia as well as text and email alerts for caregivers. For seniors with advanced dementia symptoms, this is a no-brainer.
Clothing Attachments
Some GPS trackers for seniors with dementia attach to shirts, socks, and other articles of clothing. These are more customizable, as you can incorporate them practically into your loved one’s outfits each day. The only downside to these trackers is that they’re obvious to your loved one. If they are combative or suspicious of trackers, another type of tracker may be best.
Subscriptions and Costs
Most GPS tracker systems are billed on a subscription basis. This means you pay a monthly, quarterly, or yearly fee to access tracking services. Prices vary depending on the device and company you select for your loved one.
Generally speaking, you’ll likely have to pay for the tracker device itself, along with a regular subscription fee. Most GPS trackers for seniors with dementia range from $100-$400, depending on the technology used. Subscription plans start around $20 per month but can be more expensive.
When it comes to peace of mind and safety for your loved one, these costs are well worth it. If you often worry about where your loved one is, getting a GPS tracker system can save you a lot of stress and hassle.
Keep Seniors Safe With GPS Trackers
Memory problems don’t discriminate; they can happen to any senior at any time. As their caregiver, you know how difficult it is to keep them safe, happy, and healthy. Why not take advantage of modern technology to help you do so?
Keep this guide in mind as you research the best GPS trackers for seniors with dementia. You can’t put a price on your loved one’s well-being.
If you or your family member is considering in-home care as part of a plan to age in place, contact Family Matters In-Home Care today for a free consultation. Our team is dedicated to supporting your family and helping older adults enjoy life in the comfort of their own home for as long as possible.
Some of the services offered by Family Matter In-Home Care include: Alzheimer’s & Dementia Care, Bed & Wheelchair Transfer Assistance, Companionship, Housekeeping & Meal Preparation, Personal Care, Recovery Care, and Transportation.
Serving the San Francisco Bay Area and Greater San Diego, Family Matter In-Home Care has offices throughout California including: Campbell, CA, Roseville, CA, San Marcos, CA, and San Mateo, CA.
