5 Tracking Devices for Dementia Patients (Prevents wandering and getting lost)
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Dementia is a progressive disease that affects cognitive functions, memory, and behavior. Caring for a loved one with dementia can be a challenging task, especially when it comes to ensuring their safety. One of the best ways to keep track of dementia patients is by using tracking devices specifically designed for their needs. In this blog post, I will discuss the best tracking devices for dementia patients that can provide peace of mind for caregivers and family members.
Here Are The Best Tracking Devices For Dementia Patients
1. AngelSense Personal GPS Tracker for Elderly with Dementia
Caring for someone with dementia means worrying when they wander or get confused. This small, wearable GPS tracker helps ease that worry. It keeps loved ones visible in real-time, so there’s never that anxious “where are they?” moment.
The AngelSense tracker continuously monitors location all day, offering instant updates through an app. It’s incredibly accurate and reliable — even when your loved one is on the move. The built-in speakerphone lets you listen in or speak directly to them if they seem lost or need help. It answers automatically, so they don’t need to press a thing.
Setup is easy right out of the box, and the first month of service is free. It comes with everything needed — the GPS device, a soft wearable sleeve for comfort, secure fasteners, and a small “Parent Key” for safe removal. The design is gentle and non-intrusive, perfect for seniors who might not like wearing gadgets.
What makes it stand out is the intelligent iAlerts system. It learns your loved one’s daily routine and notifies you if something seems off — like leaving too early, arriving late, or stopping somewhere unexpected. The Safe Ride Monitoring feature even tracks routes and speed, so you know if there are delays or detours.
Who is this product suitable for?
This GPS tracker is ideal for seniors living with dementia, Alzheimer’s, or memory loss — especially those who tend to wander or take walks alone. It’s also great for families who want reassurance that their loved one is safe without needing constant physical supervision.
Pros
- Accurate, real-time tracking all day long
- Two-way talk feature with automatic answering
- Smart alerts that learn daily routines
Cons
- Requires a monthly subscription ($49.99/month)
- Needs daily charging for continuous use
- Slightly bulky for very sensitive wearers
2. Brickhouse Security Magnetic GPS Tracker
The Brickhouse Security Magnetic GPS Tracker is an excellent option for caregivers who need a reliable tracking device for their loved ones with dementia. Its extra-long battery life, lasting up to 140 days with an extended battery, and fast 4G LTE coverage across North America ensure that you can always keep track of the device’s location accurately.
The device’s “slap-and-track” design makes it easy to install without any complicated processes. The waterproof magnetic case is durable and convenient, and you can attach it to vehicles or assets without drilling holes.
Additionally, the Brickhouse Security Magnetic GPS Tracker offers flexible plans to suit your needs and budget. With as low as $17.99 a month with an annual subscription, you can choose a plan that works best for you without worrying about long-term contracts or cancellation hassles.
Overall, the Brickhouse Security Magnetic GPS Tracker is an affordable and efficient tracking device that provides peace of mind for caregivers looking after their loved ones with dementia.
Who is this product suitable for?
The Brickhouse Security Magnetic GPS Tracker is suitable for anyone who needs to keep track of the location of their loved ones with dementia. It is particularly useful for those who may not be tech-savvy, as its “slap-and-track” design eliminates the need for complicated installation.
Pros:
- Extra long battery life (up to 140 days with the extended battery)
- Blazing fast 4G LTE coverage across North America.
- Tough and rugged “slap-and-track” design for easy installation
- Waterproof magnetic case for safe and secure attachment
Cons:
- Requires a subscription for use
- Limited to North American coverage only
- Requires a cellular network to work
3. SecuLife SOS Wristband
As a caregiver, your top priority is to ensure the safety of your loved one with dementia. Using reliable tracking devices can help you achieve this goal, and the SecuLife SOS Wristband is an excellent choice due to its innovative features.
The SecuLife SOS Wristband stands out from other tracking devices on the market thanks to its ease of use. It’s ready to use out of the box and can be activated in just five minutes. With a monthly subscription fee of $19, you get access to all premium safety features, including reliable and accurate GPS tracking capabilities.
With the SecuLife SOS Wristband, you can customize geofence safety areas, view detailed location history, and receive unlimited real-time tracking. The wristband is also convenient to use since the Seculife app is customizable and available on IOS, Android, or Windows.
In case of an emergency, the SOS button on the wristband can be pushed and held to immediately alert your emergency contacts. The wristband also features two-way calling capabilities with a voice-assistive speakerphone and auto-answer.
The SecuLife SOS Wristband is suitable for teens, adults, and seniors as it’s compact, comfortable, and durable. It’s also splash-resistant, allowing your loved one to wear it during day-to-day activities without hindrance.
Finally, the Seculife SOS Wristband comes with a lifetime device warranty and access to online web portals and mobile apps. You can get live customer support seven days a week to guide you through the activation process and answer any questions you may have. Overall, the SecuLife SOS Wristband provides peace of mind for caregivers, ensuring the safety of their loved ones.
Who is this product suitable for?
The SecuLife SOS Wristband is ideal for people with special needs, autism, Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, and dementia. It is also suitable for teenagers, adults, and seniors who want to stay safe and connected without the weight of bulky trackers around their necks.
Pros:
- An innovative way to monitor your loved ones
- Easy activation and ready to use out of the box
- Real-time GPS tracking with customizable geofence safety areas
- Two-way calling capabilities with voice assistive speakerphone
Cons:
- A monthly subscription fee of $19 with an annual agreement
- Limited to use in the USA, Canada, and Mexico
- Requires a 5G/4G LTE cellular network for continuous all-day monitoring
4. SureSafe Dementia Tracker
Caring for someone with dementia can be overwhelming. The SureSafe Dementia Tracker helps you breathe a little easier, knowing your loved one can reach help with just one press. It’s more than a gadget—it’s a simple way to stay connected and feel secure.
The setup is quick and painless. Everything comes ready to go, and clear instructions walk you through each step. Even if technology feels intimidating, this one’s built for simplicity.
With a reliable AT&T 4G connection, your loved one can make emergency calls directly to family and friends—no call centers, no waiting. Just one push of the SOS button, and help is on the way.
The automatic fall detection is a true life-saver. If a hard fall happens, it alerts family members right away—even if your loved one can’t press the button. It’s reassuring to know that help won’t depend on memory or movement.
GPS tracking adds another layer of peace. Whether your loved one takes a walk or accidentally wanders, you can instantly see their location and even set a “safe zone.” If they move beyond it, you’ll get an alert on your phone.
It’s small, lightweight, and comfortable to wear around the neck, which makes it easy for seniors to keep on all day. And the monthly plan is affordable compared to most emergency alert systems.
Who is this product suitable for?
This tracker is perfect for seniors living with dementia, Alzheimer’s, or balance issues. It’s especially helpful for families who want to keep loved ones safe while allowing them some independence—at home, in the garden, or on short outings.
Pros
- Quick setup and easy to use
- Accurate GPS and fall detection
- Direct family alerts, no call centers
Cons
- Battery lasts only 1–2 days with GPS alerts on
- Requires a subscription plan
- Works only with AT&T coverage
5. Apple AirTag 4 Pack
The Apple AirTag 4 Pack is an ideal tracking device for dementia patients. This compact, lightweight, and easy-to-use device allows you to track your loved one’s movements and keep them safe.
Setting up the AirTag is quick and straightforward; you can connect it to your iPhone or iPad with a simple tap. Once connected, you can use the Find My app to locate the AirTag and your loved one’s location in real time.
The AirTag’s built-in speaker and Siri integration make it even more convenient to find your loved one if they wander off or get lost. Additionally, the Ultra Wideband technology enables Precision Finding, which helps you locate your nearby AirTag with great accuracy. This feature is especially useful when your loved one is in a large facility or shopping mall.
The AirTag’s compatibility with the Find My network means you can track your loved one’s whereabouts even if they are far away from you. The device’s Lost Mode feature automatically notifies you when it is detected in the Find My network, giving you peace of mind that you’ll always know where your loved one is.
The AirTag’s anonymous and encrypted communication with the Find My network ensures your loved one’s privacy is protected. Plus, the replaceable battery lasts over a year, reducing the need for frequent replacements.
Finally, the AirTag is water and dust resistant, making it durable enough to withstand the elements. You can personalize your AirTag with a range of colorful accessories, sold separately, to make it easy to identify.
Who is this product suitable for?
The Apple AirTag 4 Pack is suitable for anyone who has a loved one with dementia. It is particularly useful for caregivers who want to keep track of their loved one’s whereabouts and ensure their safety. The AirTag is easy to use, accurate, and provides peace of mind.
Pros:
- Easy to set up
- Precision Finding with Ultra-Wideband Technology
- Long-lasting battery life
- Can be used with hundreds of millions of Apple devices
Cons:
- Only compatible with Apple devices
- Can be misplaced or lost by the dementia patient
- Need to purchase accessories separately for personalization
Buyer’s Guide
How to choose the right tracking devices for dementia patients?
Dementia is a debilitating condition that affects a significant number of older adults. It can be challenging for caregivers to keep track of their loved ones with dementia who tend to wander and get lost easily. Fortunately, there are tracking devices that can help caregivers keep their loved ones safe.
However, choosing the right tracking device for a dementia patient can be overwhelming. In this article, we will discuss the factors to consider when selecting the right tracking device for a dementia patient.
1. Type of device
There are several types of tracking devices available in the market, such as GPS watches, GPS trackers, and radio frequency (RF) devices. GPS watches and GPS trackers use satellite technology to track the location of the person wearing the device.
On the other hand, RF devices work on a different principle. They use a transmitter and a receiver to track the location of the person wearing the device. It is essential to choose a device that is easy to use and meets the specific needs of the dementia patient.
2. Range of the device
The range is the distance between the transmitter and the receiver. GPS trackers have a much greater range than RF devices. GPS trackers can track a person’s location over a considerable distance, while RF devices have a limited range of a few hundred feet.
It is important to choose a device with the right range for your specific needs. If the person you are tracking tends to wander further away from home, you may need a GPS tracker. However, if they tend to stay within a certain area, an RF device may be sufficient.
3. Battery life of the device
Battery life is an important factor to consider when choosing a tracking device. GPS trackers tend to have a shorter battery life than RF devices. A GPS tracker may need to be charged every few days, while an RF device may last for several months. It is essential to choose a device with a battery life that is appropriate for your specific needs. If the person you are tracking tends to wander for extended periods, you may need a device with a longer battery life.
4. Cost of the device
Cost is another important factor to consider when choosing a tracking device. GPS trackers tend to be more expensive than RF devices. However, GPS trackers offer more advanced features, such as real-time tracking and location history. It is important to choose a device that fits your budget and meets your specific needs.
5. Size and weight of the device
The size and weight of the device are important factors to consider, especially if the person you are tracking has mobility issues. GPS watches and trackers tend to be larger and heavier than RF devices. It is important to choose a device that is comfortable and easy for the person to wear.
In conclusion, choosing the right tracking device for a dementia patient can be overwhelming. However, by considering the type of device, range, battery life, cost, size, and weight, you can choose a device that meets your specific needs.
Remember to choose a device that is easy to use and comfortable for the person to wear. With the right tracking device, you can keep your loved one safe and give yourself peace of mind.
What types of tracking devices are available for dementia patients?
As a caregiver, I know how difficult it is to ensure the safety of my loved one with dementia. The fear of them wandering off and getting lost is always at the back of my mind. That’s why tracking devices have been a lifesaver for me.
GPS trackers have been particularly helpful. My loved one wears a small bracelet that uses satellite technology to track their location. This device sends real-time location data to my smartphone, allowing me to keep an eye on them wherever they go.
RF trackers are another option that I’ve considered. They use radio signals to track the user’s location and can be attached to clothing or worn as a bracelet or anklet. These trackers are less expensive than GPS trackers and have longer battery life. However, the range is shorter, so I need to be within range to receive location data.
Cellular trackers are another type of tracking device that I’ve looked into. These trackers have a built-in cellular connection and transmit location data to a monitoring center or my smartphone. While they are easy to set up and use, they can be more expensive than other tracking devices and require a cellular subscription.
Bluetooth trackers have also been a useful tool for me. They use Bluetooth technology to connect to my smartphone or tablet, allowing me to locate my loved ones if they wander off. These trackers are less expensive than other options but have a shorter range, so I need to be close by to receive location data.
In conclusion, tracking devices have been a great help to me as a caregiver. GPS, RF, cellular, and Bluetooth trackers are all viable options, and each has its pros and cons. I encourage all caregivers to consider using a tracking device to ensure the safety of their loved ones with dementia. With a tracking device, I can give my loved one some independence while still monitoring their whereabouts and keeping them safe.
Are there any legal or regulatory considerations that need to be taken into account when using tracking devices for dementia patients?
As the use of tracking devices for dementia patients becomes more prevalent, caregivers and healthcare professionals need to be aware of legal and regulatory considerations to ensure their use is ethical and lawful.
Here are some important points to keep in mind:
1. Privacy
It is essential to respect the privacy of dementia patients while using tracking devices. Caregivers should ensure that patients and their families are aware of the use of the devices and obtain their consent before using them. Patients have a right to privacy, and their personal information should be protected.
2. Data Protection
When using tracking devices, it is important to ensure that patient data is secure and protected. Data should only be accessed by authorized individuals and should be kept confidential. The use of encryption and secure communication channels is recommended.
3. Informed Consent
Obtaining informed consent is crucial when using tracking devices. This means that patients and their families should be informed about the purpose and limitations of the devices, the data that will be collected, who will have access to the data, and the potential risks and benefits of using the devices.
4. Medical Devices Regulation
Depending on the type of tracking device used, it may be considered a medical device and subject to regulation. For example, GPS trackers that are intended for medical purposes are subject to regulatory requirements, such as obtaining regulatory clearance from the FDA.
5. State and Federal Laws
There may be state and federal laws that govern the use of tracking devices for dementia patients. For example, in the United States, some states have laws that require a court order before using tracking devices on individuals. Healthcare professionals and caregivers should be aware of these laws and ensure that they are compliant.
6. Ethical Considerations
The use of tracking devices for dementia patients raises ethical considerations that should be taken into account. For example, caregivers must balance the patient’s right to autonomy and privacy with their duty to ensure patient safety.
Additionally, caregivers should avoid using tracking devices to restrict a patient’s freedom or restrict their activities unnecessarily.
In conclusion, using tracking devices for dementia patients requires careful consideration of legal, regulatory, and ethical considerations. Caregivers and healthcare professionals should ensure that they obtain informed consent, protect patient data, and comply with applicable laws and regulations.
By doing so, they can ensure that they are using tracking devices in an ethical and lawful manner while promoting the safety and well-being of dementia patients.
What are the potential ethical concerns surrounding the use of tracking devices for dementia patients?
As dementia patients often experience memory loss and may wander off, using tracking devices to ensure their safety has become increasingly common. However, there are potential ethical concerns surrounding the use of these devices that must be taken into consideration.
One concern is the issue of privacy. Patients may feel like their freedom and independence are being infringed upon if they are being constantly monitored. It’s essential to ensure that the patient is aware of the tracking device’s purpose and that they consent to its use. Caregivers should also be transparent about who has access to the patient’s location data and how it will be used.
Another concern is the potential for over-reliance on technology. Caregivers may become too reliant on the tracking device and not provide adequate supervision, leading to a false sense of security.
Additionally, if the tracking device fails or malfunctions, the patient’s safety may be compromised. Therefore, caregivers should always use the tracking device as a tool to assist their caregiving, not as a replacement for it.
There are also concerns about the accuracy and reliability of tracking devices. GPS and cellular trackers can have accuracy issues in certain locations, such as areas with poor signal reception. This can result in false alerts or inaccurate location data, which can cause unnecessary stress for caregivers and patients.
Caregivers should carefully research the type of tracking device they choose to ensure it has a high level of accuracy and reliability.
Lastly, there is the concern of potential stigmatization. The use of tracking devices may cause individuals with dementia to feel like they are being treated differently or that their condition is being stigmatized. Caregivers should emphasize to the patient that the tracking device is a tool to ensure their safety and independence, rather than a label or marker of their condition.
Final verdict
AngelSense is a must-have for caregivers looking for a reliable GPS tracker and speakerphone to ensure the safety of their loved ones with dementia or Alzheimer’s. With its fall detection alert system, wearable emergency button, two-way speakerphone, and targeted design, it is the best option available.
Don’t settle for anything less than the best for your loved one’s safety and peace of mind. Try AngelSense today and let me know your thoughts in the comments section below!
