Cuts down on the stress that going to the doctor can create.

Allows seniors to keep a closer eye on their daily health from their home.

This type of technology allows an individual to actively monitor his or her health remotely. In a different look at GPS tools, remote monitoring devices create a direct link between your loved one and access to health monitoring tools.

The tool does not lead to action without a crisis/emergency plan.

Requires multiple users to actively use and monitor tool/device.

The devices, if not charged or properly powered, could provide misguided safety.

heart monitor) or to carry his or her phone with them at all times.

Each device requires the user to wear the device (i.e.

If the wearer is lost, the devices can guide them to their desired location.

In an emergency, the tools can connect to the appropriate emergency responders.

The device can notify individual of leaving designated area (i.e.

Each wearable and/or mobile device can provide targeted monitoring and unique data collection.

The person will be connected to a caregiver through this device. These tools are specifically designed to track and monitor the location of a person. GPS technology for the older and/or infirm can be wearable or in the form of a mobile app. These concerns are valid and will take time to answer since emerging technology is new and rapidly changing.

If the technology of a GPS locator is how health is monitored, will the family or caregiver not check-in as often and provide the personal, emotional contact needed?.

Will it replace the element of personal contact?.

Keep the following questions in mind when determining what tool is best for you and your loved one: General Concerns of Technology in Home Care The information below describes the pros and cons of the specific geolocation tools in more detail. Also, privacy can become a source of contention since the device will be tracking and monitoring the wearer at all times. Requiring the device to be on the person at all times can prove difficult if the wearer simply removes it or leaves it at home. Overly relying on the device may give the wearer more freedom but that can come with decreased physical interaction and connection. The downside of using a GPS tool is misguided safety. Those that use a GPS tool to monitor their loved ones have noted that it does offer the ability for both the wearer and caregiver to live an independent life but remain connected in the event of an emergency. Before purchasing and jumping into using a GPS medical device (mobile or wearable) read the list below to determine if utilizing this technology is the right choice for you and your loved one.

The adoption of GPS medical technology has its pros and cons. The Pros and Cons of Geolocation Tools for Seniors The use of GPS Trackers for the elderly such as those offered by Tranquil, Medical Guardian, AngelSense, Pocketfinder, iTraq, Spy Tec, SPOT, GPS SmartSole, Trackimo, and Bay Alarm Medical can bring your aging loved one safely home and provide greater peace of mind for caregivers and family members of people with dementia. The changing technology does offer comfort for caregivers and autonomy to the elderly. The development of GPS medical alert systems has changed the way the elderly receive round-the-clock care while living at home. GPS Trackers have the ability to provide you with a position coordinate and timestamp which enables you to monitor your aging loved one's location at any time. If an aging loved one becomes lost or disoriented at times you may want to consider utilizing a GPS locator or a wearable device in order to track their whereabouts and find them in an emergency.

Dementia and other similar conditions often cause older adults to become confused or lost in both familiar and unfamiliar places. The number of people living with dementia and Alzheimer's Disease is expected to rise to 75.6 million by 2030, and 135.5 million by 2050 ( source).

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