The Benefits of GPS Trackers for Seniors Living with Dementia

gps tracker for dementia patients

Having dementia in our loved ones is really challenging. Families want their loved ones to stay safe due to their memory loss. One of the most effective tools for safety is GPS tracking for seniors. Nowadays, GPS has become a reliable choice for families and senior care communities. In this blog by Star Capital, we will discuss the benefits of a GPS tracker, how these devices work, and why families and caregivers rely on them.

Understanding Dementia & The Need For Extra Safety

Dementia not only affects memory, but also behaviour. As the stages of dementia progress, older adults start to forget familiar things or may wander away from home. Wandering is one of the most concerning situations for family and caregivers. Even a minor amount of time spent outside can increase the risk of getting lost. Caregiving 24 hours a day is both physically and emotionally draining. Here, we need a GPS tracking device for seniors. It keeps an eye on seniors and knows their location.

What Is A GPS Tracker For Dementia Patients?

A GPS tracking device is equipment that tells the actual position of the person who wears it. These electronic devices use GPS signals from satellites to track a person’s activity and update it in the mobile phone. These days, GPS devices come in various styles, including rings, watches, and pendant styles that are easy to wear. Modern GPS devices are way comfortable. They are easy to charge and lightweight to carry. These devices ensure safety, particularly in an emergency. The usual features of the device are:

  • Geo-fencing 
  • Fall detection
  • Long battery life
  • SOS/panic buttons
  • Real-time location updates
  • Caregiver alert notifications

Why GPS Tracking For Seniors Living With Dementia Is Important?

gps tracking for seniors

The use of a GPS tracker for seniors with dementia can be beneficial for both caregivers and seniors themselves. Here are the major benefits:

Prevents Wandering & Helps Find Seniors Quickly

Wandering is the most significant concern for every family member and caregiver. Seniors with dementia can roam here and there or may walk away from home due to confusion. If they wander far away, then finding them can be a difficult task. A GPS tracker can locate their location promptly. Caregivers can take immediate action. This device reduces the chance of a dangerous situation and saves time. 

Reduces Stress For Families & Caregivers

Looking for someone with dementia bothers the caregivers. Many questions come to mind about the seniors’ safety. A GPS tracking device can free you from this anxiety. Families can see the real-time location at any time on an app. In the case of any emergency, they can be notified promptly. This device provides a stress-free situation for the caregivers. 

Supports Senior Independence

Dementia patients also seek independence. They also want to roam freely in the garden or on the streets. This makes the caregiver anxious. Without any supervision, it is difficult to let them go outside alone. A GPS tracking device for seniors can give families and caregivers peace of mind. This device can improve the quality of life of older adults. 

Provides Emergency Assistance Through SOS Buttons

Many GPS tracking devices have a panic button. In the event of an emergency, for instance, if the senior is feeling scared or lost, they can press the SOS button, which sends an alert notification to the family member or caregiver. GPS trackersfor seniors with dementia also feature a communication feature that allows seniors to contact their caregivers during an emergency, such as accidents, getting lost, falls, sudden health issues, or anxiety. At Star Capital, we recognize the importance of safety. This device reduces the risk and enhances safety concerns. 

Helps Memory Care Staff Provide Better Care

A GPS tracking device is essential for caring for multiple patients with dementia. In senior living facilities, the caregivers have to take care of many dementia patients, so it is a difficult task to care for all of them at the same time. Here, a GPS tracker plays an important role. This helps caregivers stay focused and organized by tracking the exact location, allowing them to respond more quickly to emergencies. Ensure the senior citizens remain safe and reduce the risk of wandering. This device helps maintain overall safety, allowing staff to focus on other activities instead of searching for them. 

Geo-Fence Alerts For Extra Protection

Geofencing is one of the most effective technologies that creates a safe zone for seniors. Caregivers can establish safe zones, such as their own homes, neighborhoods, or senior care facilities, to provide a secure environment. If the senior steps out of this safe zone, notification will be sent to the caregivers. This helps caregivers to react quickly. Geofencing is great when you are busy and want to keep an eye on your loved one with dementia.  

Tracks Daily Movement & Health-Related Patterns

A GPS tracker for dementia patients monitors activity levels, including step count. This gives the essential information that doctors need to understand whether the senior is active or resting. This data enables further planning of more effective care strategies. 

Improves Safety During Outdoor Activities

Every senior enjoys outdoor walks. But there is a possibility that they get confused or lost. A GPS tracking device for seniors with dementia makes outdoor walks much safer. There is no need to fear or take unnecessary stress, as this GPS tracker tracks the exact location.

Helps During Transportation Or Appointments

When going to doctors for regular check-ups or therapy sessions, GPS tracking for seniors ensures that the seniors are safe during travel and arrive at the right destination. Families or caregivers can monitor everything from their phone. 

Cost-Effective Way To Improve Safety

A GPS device is more cost-effective than hiring a full-time caregiver. GPS provides a medium to improve the safety of senior citizens. One device can support the senior citizen with dementia every hour of the day. This makes it a cost-effective solution for many families.

Conclusion

Dementia is an overwhelming situation for many families. Additionally, safety is the primary concern for caregivers. A GPS tracker is a great solution for alleviating all safety concerns. This provides seniors with independence and ensures quick assistance in the event of an emergency. At Star Capital, our primary concern is the safety of senior citizens. We appreciate modern technology that makes life safer and easier. If your loved one is experiencing dementia, a GPS tracker for dementia patients is an excellent choice for their care plan.

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