How to Keep Track of an Elderly Parent

Caring for an elderly parent comes with love, responsibility, and, at times, worry. As they age, health concerns like memory loss, mobility issues, and chronic conditions can make daily life more challenging. If your older adult parent lives alone, you may wonder:

• What if Dad has a fall and can’t call for help?
• How can I check on Mom without making her feel like she’s losing her independence?
• What if there’s an emergency and no one is around?

For many adult children, balancing their loved one’s freedom and safety is a real challenge. But modern solutions, like tracking devices, GPS trackers, and tracking apps, can provide peace of mind while keeping seniors safe. These tools offer discreet monitoring, fall detection, and even two-way voice communication, so you can track location, respond quickly in an emergency, and talk directly to your parent if needed.

Below we will review when to start tracking an elderly loved one, features to look for in a tracking device, and how to introduce the idea in a way that respects their independence while keeping them safe.

Why Track an Aging Parent?

As your elderly parent gets older, their health issues and daily routines may change. Some elderly individuals remain active and independent, while others may struggle with mental function, memory loss, or mobility challenges. If your elderly loved one is starting to show signs of confusion, getting lost, or forgetting important tasks, tracking devices and GPS trackers can help ensure their safety while maintaining their independence.

For many adult children, keeping track of an elderly family member isn’t about control, it’s about peace of mind. A tracking device or tracking app can:

• Prevent wandering by allowing you to track location in real time.
• Provide fall detection and SOS buttons to alert you in an emergency.
• Allow for two-way calling, so you can talk directly to them if needed.
• Send low battery alerts, ensuring their device is always ready.
• Give family members instant access to their parent’s whereabouts.

If your elderly loved one still drives, goes on walks alone, or lives in a different city, a GPS tracker can help keep seniors safe while giving them the freedom they want. Many tracking devices are discreet and lightweight – some even come as a smart watch, making them a good option for those who don’t want to carry a separate tracking device.

When Should You Start Monitoring an Elderly Parent?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to when you should start tracking an elderly parent, but there are key signs that it might be time. If your elderly loved one is experiencing health concerns, memory loss, or difficulty managing daily tasks, a tracking device or mobile GPS tracker can help ensure their safety without making them feel like they’re losing their independence.

Here are some common reasons why adult children choose to start monitoring a parent’s location:

• Memory problems – Forgetting appointments, getting confused about familiar places, or having trouble recognizing family members.
• Wandering behavior – If your elderly family member has dementia or Alzheimer’s, they may leave the house unexpectedly and get lost.
• Increased risk of falls – A tracking device with fall detection can automatically alert emergency services if your parent falls and can’t call for help.
• Living alone – If your older adult parent lives independently, a GPS tracker or tracking app can provide peace of mind by letting you check in when needed.
• Medical conditions – Conditions like diabetes, Parkinson’s, or heart disease can increase the risk of sudden medical events. Some dementia trackers and smart watches even include health monitoring to track vitals.
• Driving safety concerns – If your elderly loved one still drives but has slowed reflexes or confusion behind the wheel, a tracking device can help you monitor their location and prevent wandering.

It’s important to close the dialog with your parent in a way that makes them feel supported rather than controlled. Instead of presenting monitoring as a loss of freedom, emphasize how it can help them stay independent while keeping them safe. Many devices even include two-way calling, so they can easily reach out if they need help.

Choosing the Right Tracking Method

When it comes to keeping an elderly parent safe, selecting the right tracking device depends on their needs, comfort level, and daily routine. There are several good options available, from tracking apps on Android phones to wearable GPS trackers with advanced features like fall detection and two-way voice communication.

Phone Apps for Elderly Parents

For elderly individuals who regularly use smartphones, tracking apps can be a convenient way to track location without extra equipment. Many Android phones and iPhones have built-in location-sharing features, or you can download third-party apps designed for monitoring an elderly loved one.

Some of the benefits of tracking apps include:

• Real-time location tracking to check where your parent is at any time
• Two-way calling so you can talk directly to them in case of an emergency
• The ability to receive notifications if they arrive or leave a specific place
• Access for multiple family members to stay connected

However, tracking apps have limitations. They rely on the person wearing the phone, keeping it charged, and carrying it at all times. If your elderly family member often forgets their phone or prefers not to use one, a GPS tracker may be a better option.

GPS Tracker for Elderly Parents

For adult children looking for a more reliable safety solution, a GPS tracker offers greater security than a phone alone. These devices come in different forms, including:

• Smart watches with built-in GPS tracking, fall detection, and SOS buttons
• Wearable trackers that attach to clothing, belts, or shoes
• Pendant-style devices designed for easy use with an emergency SOS button

A GPS tracker is especially helpful for elderly people with dementia, Alzheimer’s, or mobility issues. Many trackers include geofencing alerts, which notify you if your loved one wanders outside a designated area.

Which Tracking Method is Right for Your Elderly Parent?

When deciding whether to use a tracking app or a GPS tracker, consider the following factors:

• Daily habits – Does your parent carry their phone at all times?
• Health concerns – Do they have memory issues or a history of falls?
• Comfort level – Are they open to wearing a tracking device or smart watch?
• Features needed – Would fall detection, SOS buttons, or two-way calling be helpful?
• Monthly subscription – Some tracking devices require a SIM card and a monthly fee for real-time tracking.

For families looking for a reliable, all-in-one safety solution, a medical alert system can be a good option. These systems combine GPS tracking, emergency alerts, and two-way voice communication, ensuring help is always within reach – whether at home or on the go.

Selecting a GPS Tracker

Not all GPS trackers are the same. If you’re considering a tracking device for your elderly parent, it’s important to choose one that fits their needs while offering reliable safety features.

Features to Look For

Before purchasing a GPS tracker, consider the following features:

• Fall detection – Automatically alerts emergency services if your elderly loved one falls and can’t press a button.
• SOS button – Allows them to talk directly to you or emergency responders with a single press.
• Two-way voice communication – Guarantees that you can check in or reassure them if they feel unsafe.
• Geofencing alerts – Notifies you if they leave a safe zone like their home or neighborhood.
• Long battery life – Reduces the risk of the device running out of power when it’s needed most.
• Low battery alerts – Sends a notification when the battery needs charging.
• Water-resistant design – Protects against rain or accidental spills.

Choosing Between Subscription vs. No Subscription

Some tracking devices require a monthly subscription for real-time location tracking and emergency support. While subscription-based devices often offer better tracking accuracy and 24/7 emergency response, there are also no-subscription models available that work with a SIM card or Wi-Fi but may have fewer features.

Consider your parent’s lifestyle:

• If they frequently go out alone, a monthly subscription model with live tracking and SOS buttons may be best.
• If they spend most of their time at home, a basic GPS tracker with fall detection and two-way calling may be enough.

Using a GPS Tracker Effectively

Once you’ve chosen a GPS tracker for your elderly parent, the next step is making sure it’s set up properly and used effectively. A tracking device is only as good as the way it’s integrated into daily life.

How to Get the Most Out of a GPS Tracker

• Make sure your parent wears it daily – Whether it’s a smart watch, pendant, or clip-on tracker, it needs to be worn consistently for reliable monitoring.
• Set up geofencing alerts – Establish safe zones like home, a friend’s house, or a regular walking route to be alerted if they wander off.
• Enable fall detection and SOS buttons – These features provide instant alerts if your elderly loved one has a fall or needs help.
• Check battery levels regularly – Activate low battery alerts to prevent unexpected power loss.
• Communicate with your loved one – Use two-way voice communication to talk directly and provide reassurance when needed.

The Best Way to Keep Your Elderly Parent Safe

Keeping seniors safe doesn’t mean taking away their independence, it means providing resources that offer support while giving family members peace of mind. A tracking device is a good option for any elderly individual who wants to live freely while having a safety net in place.

If you’re looking for a trusted solution, LifeStation offers top-rated medical alert systems with:

• Fall detection and SOS buttons for instant emergency response
• Two-way calling so you can stay connected anytime
• Real-time tracking with geofencing alerts to prevent wandering
• Reliable coverage with a simple, hassle-free setup

Give your elderly parent the safety, independence, and support they deserve. Call LifeStation today at (877) 919-2474 to learn more about our GPS tracking solutions.

Read more from our senior blog section.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to track an elderly parent?

The best way to track an elderly parent depends on their needs. If they are comfortable using a phone, a tracking app may work. However, for reliable safety and ease of use, a GPS tracker with fall detection, SOS buttons, and two-way voice communication is the most effective option.

Are GPS trackers safe for elderly individuals?

Yes. GPS trackers are designed with elderly individuals in mind. They provide real-time tracking, emergency alerts, and geofencing to ensure seniors remain safe while maintaining their independence.

Do GPS trackers require a monthly subscription?

Some tracking devices require a monthly subscription to provide real-time location tracking and emergency response services. While there are no-subscription options, they may lack key features like fall detection, two-way calling, and emergency services access.

How do I introduce a tracking device to my elderly loved one?

Start by explaining that a tracking device is not about limiting their independence, but about keeping them safe. Emphasize that it allows them to live freely while giving you peace of mind. Many adult children find success by choosing a discreet option like a smart watch or pendant.

Where can I get a reliable GPS tracker for my elderly parent?

LifeStation offers top-rated GPS tracking solutions with real-time tracking, fall detection, and emergency response features to keep your elderly loved one safe.

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