Until a few years ago, health was the most ignored and abused aspect of our lives. The global health crisis threw our lives off gear, and we have slowly come to realize that the adage ‘health is wealth’ is indeed true. Only good health can save us in these uncertain times and stay fit and healthy is the new mantra for our survival! The pandemic has turned us into a generation that is extremely cautious about staying healthy.

Initially, social distancing requirements kept us away from our gyms and Yoga studios. But just like work and study shifted online, so did our workouts and Zumba sessions. Technological advancements ensured we seamlessly adopted fitness-from-home routines, be it pilates, aerobics, or dance. 

No age group was spared when it came to being affected by the pandemic. But, the challenges faced by our seniors are indeed unique.

They had of course envisioned relaxed times ahead for themselves post-retirement. So, it was indeed a big blow to their dreams and travel plans. But, alas, we all had to put our plans on hold and live in the moment. What better way to do that than by getting fit and bringing our ignored health back on track. As much as many crumbled under the pressure, it is indeed commendable that many older folks took control of the situation and made use of the lockdown and isolation times to put their well-being on top of their priority list.

Undoubtedly, a device that soared in popularity post-pandemic was the wearable category of activity trackers. Be it to monitor the heart rate, oxygen saturation, blood pressure, calories burnt or steps walked, it comes as no surprise that there is a growing interest in smartwatches among the elder population.

In this article, we provide a round-up of the 5 best smartwatches for senior citizens available in the market today. Read ahead to explore your options.

5 best elder-friendly smartwatches

#1 Samsung Galaxy Watch 4

Although this smartwatch has the design of a classic watch, it has a sleek and stylish appearance that is very now. It has all the features you could ask for in a smartwatch. LTE connectivity, heart monitor, advanced workout tracker, sleep tracking, oxygen level assessment, Google assistant, Youtube, it’s got it all! What’s more – the band and screen can be personalized to suit your attire of the day.

Pros

• Fall detection
• Can make calls and send text messages
• Highly durable in case of drop
• Can pair with Apple and Android phones

Cons

• Price is at the higher end of the spectrum

#2 Apple Watch Series 7

With a 20% larger screen than its predecessor, it has an edge in the accessibility area for seeing content better. You can track heart rate, sleep, daily activities, and workout with this gadget. Take an ECG, measure your blood oxygen, make calls, send texts, listen to music right from your wrist! Also, shake up the appearance with its host of personalization features. 

Pros

• Crack-resistant and swim-proof
• Larger screen
• Always-on retina display
• Fall detection with emergency SOS

Cons

• Short battery life

#3 Fitbit Versa 2

This sophisticated smartwatch is the best choice if fitness tracking is your prime requirement. It has multisport mode and lets you set goals be it walking, swimming or Yoga. It also lets you create unlimited looks with the official Fitbit bands and accessories.

Pros

• Alexa built-in voice commands for GPS, weather, reminders and more.
• Smart alarm to wake you during your optimal sleep cycle
• Always-on display mode
• Compare with friends and family on the Fitbit App
• Compatible with Android and iOS devices

Cons

• Lacks fall detection
• Have to pay monthly for Fitbit Premium to be able to have the full experience
• Still need to have your phone around you for calls and messages

#4 Freedom Guardian

This wearable from Medical Guardian is less of a smartwatch and more of a medical alert system that is meant to save lives. It has a dedicated Emergency assist button. With location tracking services, any type of help can be sent to the exact spot the wearer is at.

Pros

• Large icons that are easy to see
• High-resolution screen for those with poor eyesight

Cons

• No fall detection
• No heart rate monitor or step counter
• Installation of additional apps not possible
• Relatively short battery life of 2 days

#5 Lively Wearable 2

This product is a comfortable and low profile watch that can be worn as a watch or kept anywhere close to your body. The top feature is that it has a faster way to call for help using the app on the smartphone. The app immediately sends a message to the urgent response agent, who in turn can send help. Simultaneously, the notifications are sent to your loved ones too. Apart from the usual features of step tracking, fall detection and being water-resistant, it has an extra-long battery life that can even last up to 4 months.

Pros

• Urgent call feature
• Extra-long battery life.

Cons

• Does not have blood pressure and oxygen monitors

Apart from the in-built modes, additional features are available in the connected apps for guided relaxation, with meditation guides from renowned people. Also, some apps can measure stress management scores based on a dozen different data points. It also helps to stay hydrated by tracking the amount of water consumption every day. Food logging features can help in tracking the calories consumed every day. 

Verdict

Engaging in fitness activities not just keeps you healthy, but also alert and ready to take on the world. With this attitude, you can take up any challenges that may be thrown at you.

To stay motivated and stay on top of your fitness regime, using a wearable device is the most convenient way to go about it. Elders can now clock in more steps, faster runs, stay mindful, stress less and most importantly, stay more motivated – all thanks to smartwatches.