Best Smartwatches For Seniors Of 2024

To determine the best smartwatches for seniors, the Forbes Health editorial team analyzed data on approximately 90 products from top brands, evaluating them based on a range of criteria, including:

• Price
• Warranty length
• Amazon customer ratings
• Data storage
• Battery life
• Product weight

Despite being a relatively new technology, smartwatches aren’t particularly difficult to set up or integrate into your wellness routine. Think of it as one more high-tech bulwark in your line of healthy aging defense—all in a very convenient, comfortable package.

“Smartwatches empower seniors to have social connectivity with the world, safety and reassurance for their loved ones, and autonomy to remain independent—all right at their wrist,” says Ardeshir Hashimi, M.D., an Ohio-based geriatrician and Forbes Health Advisory Board member.

Depending on your budget, smartwatches offer similar levels of protection, power and potential as smartphones. It’s an affordable way to increase your peace of mind, whether on the go or at home.

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• Identifies your location with cellular, WiFi & GPS technology
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• Large face and high-resolution display allows you to confidently engage in activities
• Optional fall detection and all-day battery life

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When purchasing a smartwatch for an older adult, it’s important to look at their individual needs. How would they typically use the device? Are there any specific health metrics they’re interested in monitoring, such as heart rate or blood oxygen levels? And if they plan to wear it mostly for safety, it’s important to prioritize features like fall detection, GPS tracking and the ability to send medical alerts. Determining these factors can help you find the best option for your loved one.

Below are a few more details to keep in mind as you shop for a smartwatch for an older adult.

A User-Friendly Focus

When purchasing a new smartwatch, seek out options that are easy to set up and use—or devices that use the same operating system the person is already familiar with from their phone or tablet. For example, if someone is already familiar with Apple products or has used a Fitbit previously, that experience might enhance their ability to adapt to a device that operates with similar technology.

And if no one in your immediate circle is particularly tech savvy, don’t fear—tech help for seniors is available from nonprofits like Cyber-Seniors and Generations on Line.

Communication Preferences

If keeping in touch with friends and family members is a priority, look for a device that can send and receive text messages and calls. Extra data storage, as well as phone syncing and texting capabilities are available with higher-priced smartwatch options.

Health and Wellness Concerns

Most smartwatches, regardless of price, offer basic health monitoring features like step counters and sleep trackers. Meanwhile, higher-end products can monitor heart rhythms and keep tabs on blood oxygen levels, among other more advanced metrics.

Size, Weight, Wearability and Comfort

Some smartwatches emphasize sleek, lightweight designs, so be sure to verify the weight of your desired device before purchasing. Read consumer reviews as well to learn about any potential issues with a smartwatch’s band or fit.

Safety Features

If safety is a concern, look for a device that offers fall detection, reliable connectivity (including well-supported apps that aren’t prone to crashing) and emergency medical alerts.

Safety-minded shoppers may also want to ensure their smartwatch offers precise GPS tracking and seamless device syncing.

A smartwatch may not be right for everyone, but this increasingly ubiquitous wearable technology can enrich, enhance and possibly even save your life or the life of a loved one. Seniors, especially, can benefit from the safety and well-being features embedded in smartwatches.

But as with any device, it’s all about finding something that offers the specific bells and whistles that meet your unique needs and preferences.