Do you look after a family member with dementia? Are they in the early stages of dementia? Do they tend to wander around?
Dementia is a progressive disease that impairs the cognitive ability of one’s brain. According to WHO (World Health Organization), there are over 55 million people around the world who have dementia. Wandering or getting lost in a familiar neighborhood, memory loss, and difficulty speaking are some of the symptoms one may experience.
A GPS tracker can provide real-time location updates on your loved one. You can create geofence alerts. You can use one-way calls to check in remotely or two-way calls to have a conversation.
Our Top Recommendation For GPS Tracker for Dementia Patients!
- 30 days Ultra long operating battery life
- First 30 days subscription Free
- Automatically receives arrival and departure notifications on TackGPS App whenever device enters or leaves preset Safe Zones.
After thorough research and testing, we have put together a list of the five best GPS trackers for dementia patients.
The article contains a brief review of the trackers with design, usability, features, and specification details.
5 Best GPS Tracker for Dementia Patients in 2023
We have picked trackers that are compact enough to be carried around in one’s pockets or backpacks or have convenient attachment options. Location updates, GPS accuracy, and geofences have been essential consideration factors.
Here are our top five recommendations for GPS trackers.
- Tack GPS Device – Best Budget-Friendly GPS Tracker
- AngelSense Watch – Best Feature-Rich GPS Tracker
- SecuLife SOS GPS Tracker – Best GPS Tracker with Voice Features
- Spy Spot Real Time GPS Tracker 4G GL300 MG – Best Battery Life GPS Tracker
- PAJ GPS Easy Finder 4G – Best Customer-Rated GPS Tracker
1. Tack GPS Device – Best Budget-Friendly GPS Tracker
If you are looking for a well-performing GPS tracker that is easy on the pockets, consider the one from Tack.
The device uses a mix of technologies like GPS, WiFi, Bluetooth, and mobile IoT networks. The device is a mid-priced product. It still gets the budget-friendly tag as its service plans start from $2.99 to $3.99/month.
Here is how the Tack GPS performs.
Design
The Tack GPS is a compact device with dimensions of 1.8 x 1.4 x 0.65 inches. It weighs only about an ounce. Thus, it is easy to carry around in pockets or backpacks. You can purchase a colorful fabric case and attach it to a collar to track your pet.
It comes with a rechargeable battery of 750 mAh. Tack claims the battery can last in standby mode for up to a month. With regular use and frequent updates, the battery can last for up to two to three weeks.
Usability
The Tack GPS device comes with a communication chip. It does not rely on your phone for a cellular or GPS network.
You can download the TackGPS app to pair and customize the tracker. You can use the tracker in four modes – power saving, standard, active, and emergency.
You can monitor up to 99 devices from the same dashboard. On the other hand, you can track the same tracker from multiple devices as long as you are logged in with the same credentials.
Features
You can create up to eight safe zones with the newest app update. You will receive a notification when the patient enters or exits the predefined zone.
You can get alerts once every two minutes when the emergency mode is activated.
If multiple caregivers are looking after the patient, you can generate a location link and share it with your contacts.
| Product Specification | |
|---|---|
| Dimension | 1.8 x 1.4 x 0.65 inches |
| Weight | 1 ounce |
| Battery | Rechargeable, 750 mAh |
| Coverage | Currently available in 30+ countries including the US, Canada, Mexico, and the UK |
| Price | Starts from $69.50 |
| Subscription | Starts from $2.99 to $3.99/month |
| Warranty | 1-year |
Pros
- The lightweight tracker weighs about an ounce.
- You can use the tracker indoors and outdoors.
- The first 30 days of subscription are free.
- It provides a one-click SOS button for emergencies.
Cons
- The tracker’s battery drains faster than advertised.
- Some users have reported issues with customer service.
2. AngelSense Watch – Best GPS Tracker with Voice Features
AngelSense is one of the best brands in the market when it comes to GPS tracking. It provides quality features like one and two-way calls, unlimited geofences and alerts, and proactive alerts based on the device wearer’s routine.
The battery life is on the shorter side. AngelSense believes you should be able to track your loved ones at any given moment, so it does not offer a standby mode.
Here is how the AngelSense Watch performs.
Design
The dimensions of the AngelSense watch are 1.87 x 1.39 x 0.66 inches. It weighs about 1.6 ounces. The original watch strap is made from TPU and fits wrist widths of 12 to 22 cm.
The watch has an IPX7 rating. It should be fine under light rain or snow. Remove the watch while going for water-intensive activities like swimming.
You can buy other watch straps like smartwatch or sport style, soft-breathable or lockable types.
Its rechargeable battery can last for up to 16 hours.
Usability
The AngelSense watch does not have a power-on button. You can turn on the watch by placing it on the charging dock. When it runs out of power, it automatically turns off.
Once the watch is charged, download the AngelSense app and create an account. To acquire a GPS signal, the watch must be in transit with a minimum of 1.5 miles away from the charging point.
You can customize the watch and add numbers that can contact the watch.
Features
The watch provides a one-way feature, which you can use to call the device remotely and listen in. The incoming call will not ring aloud, and the watch will automatically pick it up.
The device also provides a two-way calling feature, which you and your loved one can use to talk. For example, you can guide them through the tracker if they need help getting back home or are having a meltdown.
Only the numbers authorized by the primary guardian can contact the watch.
| Product Specification | |
|---|---|
| Dimension | 1.87 x 1.39 x 0.66 inches |
| Weight | 1.6 ounces |
| Battery | Rechargeable(Up to 16 hours depending on use) |
| Coverage | US, Canada and the UK |
| Price | Starts from $79.00 |
| Subscription | Starts from $44.99 to $64.99 |
| Warranty | 1-year |
Pros
- You can get location updates once every 10 seconds to 30 minutes.
- You can create unlimited geofences.
- You can make one and two-way calls to the tracker.
- It proactively provides alerts for potential emergencies.
Cons
- It has a short battery life, lasting up to 16 hours.
- The service plans can be expensive.
3. SecuLife SOS GPS Tracker – Best Feature-Rich GPS Tracker
The GPS tracker from SecuLife is another tracker on the list with voice features. You can make two-way calls and stay in touch with the patient.
It lets you set unlimited geofences regardless of the service plan. With the basic plan, you get updates once every 5 minutes, and with the elite plans, you can get frequent updates.
Here is how the SecuLife SOS GPS tracker performs.
Design
The SecuLife device weighs about 1.23 ounces. Its dimensions are 2.40 x 1.73 x 0.62 inches. The device is splash-resistant.
It comes with attachment options like a lanyard and a bag/belt clip. You also get a carrying pouch. The SOS button is clearly defined on the face of the tracker.
Its rechargeable battery lasts 8 to 24 hours, depending on use. Frequent location updates can drain the battery quicker.
Usability
Activate the SecuLife SIM on their website. Complete the activation step by choosing a service plan. Once done, you should receive the credentials to log in to the SecuLife app.
Download the SecuLife app and log in using the credentials received. You will find the tracker already added to your profile. You can now set alerts and update intervals.
The app is easy to use, but it has a learning curve to it. The alerts are spread across different tabs, which can take getting used to at the start.
Features
You can create unlimited geofences and receive unlimited entry and exit alerts. You can have multiple guardians looking over the family member with dementia.
In the case of an emergency, your loved one can press the SOS button. You will receive a text and an in-app alert.
You or the device wearer can initiate a call. You can customize if the incoming call to the tracker must be manually answered or picked automatically.
| Product Specification | |
|---|---|
| Dimension | 2.40 x 1.73 x 0.62 inches |
| Weight | 1.23 ounces |
| Battery | RechargeableLasts from 8 to 24 hours |
| Coverage | USA, Canada and Mexico |
| Price | $49.00 |
| Subscription | Starts from $17.10 to $39/month |
| Warranty | Lifetime warranty on devices with active subscription |
Pros
- You can create unlimited geofences.
- It supports two-way calling.
- You get a lifetime warranty as long as you have an active subscription.
- It stores historical data for up to a year.
Cons
- The month-to-month subscription plans can be expensive.
- It has a short battery life.
4. Spy Spot Real Time GPS Tracker 4G GL300 MG – Best Battery Life GPS Tracker
If you do not want to charge the GPS tracker every other day, consider the one from Spy Spot. The battery can last up to three weeks but can differ depending on usage.
For example, if the patient has mild dementia and is active and independent, you may get frequent alerts, which can bring down the battery life to a week or two.
Here is how the Spy Spot real-time GPS tracker performs.
Design
The Spy Spot tracker is a comparatively bigger device, weighing 3.5 ounces. Its dimensions are 3.5 x 1 x 2 inches.
You get a waterproof pouch made of thick Oxford material with your purchase. The pouch has a zip closure. It has a group attachment at the back that can be used to attach the tracker to a belt.
You will receive the wall adapter needed to charge the device inside the box.
Usability
You must activate the tracker on Spy Spot’s website, which can take up to 24 hours. You must provide your contact details, device IMEI, and payment information.
You can log in to the tracking portal once the device has been activated. You can view the tracker and basic details like the last event time, and battery.
The tracking portal’s design is old school; the app design is comparatively better. Take some time initially to go through the portal, as the feature settings are available under different tabs.
Features
You can set the update intervals at 1, 3, 5, or 10 minutes at the time of activation. If you need to change the interval time, you can only do so by contacting the customer support team.
You can create circular and rectangular-shaped geofences. You can also create temporary geofences that get automatically deleted after triggering the entry or exit alert.
It provides motion detection, proximity checks between trackers, and low battery alerts.
| Product Specification | |
|---|---|
| Dimension | 3.5 x 1 x 2 inches |
| Weight | 3.5 ounces |
| Battery | Rechargeable(lasts for up to 3 weeks depending on usage) |
| Coverage | US, Canada and Mexico |
| Price | Starts from $58.00 |
| Subscription | Starts from $9.95 to $24/month |
| Warranty | NA |
Pros
- You can set permanent and temporary virtual fences.
- You can get updates once every 1 to 10 minutes.
- You can view six months of historical data.
Cons
- You must buy a premium plan to access all features.
- You must pay an activation fee.
5. PAJ GPS Easy Finder 4G – Best Customer-Rated GPS Tracker
The Easy Finder tracker from PAJ is one of the devices highly rated by customers on Amazon. It provides coverage in 100+ countries.
The tracker provides location updates once every 30 seconds when it is on the move. It has an SOS button for emergencies. When the button is pressed for five seconds, you get alerted through the app and/or email.
Here is how the PAJ GPS Easy Finder 4G performs.
Design
The Easy Finder device is also one of the comparatively bigger devices on the list. It weighs about 3.5 ounces.
You will receive the tracker, SIM, charging cable, wall adapter, protective bag, and manual inside the box.
The tracker has a Li-ion battery with a 3000 mAh capacity. The battery can last from 2 to 10 days, depending on use.
For example, if you used the tracker for an hour to two daily, the battery would last up to a week. But if used for 6 to 8 hours at a stretch, the battery will drain in a couple of days.
Usability
Activate the tracker on the Finder portal by selecting a service plan and registering the device. Ensure the tracker is fully charged. Once the tracker is activated, power it on and take it under the open sky so it can acquire a GPS signal.
You can monitor the tracker through an app as well. There are currently two apps available by PAJ – Online Finder Portal and PAJ Portal V2.
Both apps are easy to use but need some design improvements for a better user experience.
Features
You can create virtual fences and receive entry and exit notifications. You can set speed limits and receive alerts if the tracker is moving faster than the limit.
If the tracker is powered off, you will receive an alert for the same. You can access historical data for up to a year.
| Product Specification | |
|---|---|
| Dimension | 3.07 x 1.53 x 1.14 inches |
| Weight | 3.5 ounces |
| Battery | Rechargeable Li-ion 3000 mAh |
| Coverage | 100+ countries |
| Price | $29.99 |
| Subscription | $4.17 to $6.99/month depending on plan |
| Warranty | 30 days money back guarantee |
Pros
- You get updates once every 30 seconds when the tracker is in motion.
- The tracker provides coverage in 100+ countries.
- You can view historical data for up to a year.
- It has an SOS button for emergencies.
Cons
- Magnetic cable charging can be a hassle.
- The instructions need to be more descriptive.
How We Picked and Tested the GPS Tracker for Dementia Patients?
Taking care of dementia patients can be a demanding task. You have several technological devices like GPS trackers that can help you better care for your loved ones.
We looked at several GPS trackers in the market, their design, features, and user experiences. We then shortlisted trackers for testing.
Every tracker was taken through similar routes to compare GPS accuracy. We also tested distinguishing features like voice calls, location sharing, and temporary geofences.
Key-Decision Making Factors
We picked trackers based on their size, the ones that are lightweight and easy to carry around.
We tested the location update frequency and GPS accuracy. Most trackers on the list update once every few seconds to minutes.
The trackers on the list are equipped to handle emergencies with an SOS button and voice call features.
Cost is another factor. Most devices are budget-friendly and have good service plans. The AngelSense service plans can be expensive, but they provide value.
FAQ’s
It depends on the tracker’s brand, model, and the service plan. Some trackers offer updates every 10 seconds, while others provide hourly updates. For example, PAJ GPS offers 30-second updates, whereas Spy Spot GPS offers hourly updates with its low-cost plans.
Trackers relying on GPS technology are unsuitable for indoor use as trees and walls can obstruct signals. If the tracker uses WiFi and Bluetooth technology, it can also be used indoors. Tack GPS is a good device for tracking dementia patients indoors and outdoors.
Most GPS trackers charge a monthly fee, which includes your cellular and app usage charges. A few no-monthly fee trackers are available, like the ones from Family1st or Invoxia.
Summary
A GPS tracker can provide you with peace of mind. You can know where your elderly family members are at all times.
When choosing a GPS tracker specifically for dementia patients, consider factors like real-time updates, GPS accuracy, geofence alerts, battery life, and service plans.
AngelSense and SecuLife are our top recommendations if you are looking for feature-rich trackers. If cost is a priority, consider the one from Tack. Spy Spot trackers offer a good battery life, and the one from PAJ is customer-approved.
We hope the above reviews help you find the best GPS tracker for dementia patients.
Carson Harris is a highly qualified author and expert in GPS tracking technology. With a background in electrical engineering and machine learning, he has established himself as a trusted source of information. Carson’s work experience at Garmin and Panasonic has further enhanced his expertise. He possesses creative skills in website design and AI applications. Known for his clear and concise communication, Carson’s articles on Trax Family’s website provide valuable insights on GPS trackers.