Senior Safety – Choosing The Right GPS Tracker For Elderly Loved Ones
Imagine your loved one wandering off and getting lost, a nightmare scenario for any family caring for an elderly relative with dementia. How can you ensure their safety and independence without constant supervision? The answer: a GPS tracker for elderly individuals. These innovative devices can give you peace of mind, knowing your loved one is always within reach. But which one should you choose? And how can it help during the challenging stages of dementia? In this article, we’ll explore the best GPS tracking devices on the market, and answer your most pressing questions, guiding you towards making the right choice for your family.
What To Know About Tracking Devices For Dementia Patients
Modern dementia care doesn’t need to be as difficult as it’s typically been done in the past. With advances in care technology, many tasks requiring constant attention can now be automated. Caring for someone who lives with dementia or Alzheimer’s has become much more manageable.
People with dementia can become confused, easily get lost, or fall and get hurt. In a 2021 article by AARP’s Family and Caregiving Expert, Amy Goyer suggests everything from GPS smartsoles to Apple AirTags to keep them safe. Diving deeper, it’s important to have a checklist when choosing a GPS tracker for elderly people.
- Will it work for your situation? Will a tracker get tossed as soon as it’s found? Does it need to be safe for those with sensory sensitivities?
- What makes these tracking devices special? Do they have a locking mechanism so they don’t fall off? Does it come with a speakerphone?
- What’s the range? Many people travel when they retire in old age, so will the tracker work globally?
Additionally, it’s vital to remember that many devices on this list require cellular SIM cards and monthly costs. What features do you get with cellular service? Some features worth springing for are ideal for those wandering outside safe zones. Some devices include an auto-answer assistive speakerphone. Others simply provide the last known position. Be careful: research all the costs and features associated with the trackers you consider.
AngelSense GPS Tracker For Elderly – Most Intuitive Tracking Reports
 | Most Intutive Trackimng Reports AngelSense GPS Tracker For Elderly
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Key Features
- Elderly Monitoring with Assistive Speakerphone: AngelSense provides easy communication through a one-click SOS button, allowing elderly users to contact caregivers instantly without remembering phone numbers.
- Fall Detection Alert: Includes a feature to notify caregivers in case of a fall, aimed at enhancing safety and confidence for seniors, especially those at risk of falls.
- Live GPS Tracking: Designed specifically for the elderly and those with early-stage dementia or Alzheimer’s, offering live location tracking and instant alerts.
- Comfortable Wearable Device: Comes with a 2-way speakerphone and is easily attachable to clothing or bags. The SOS button can be set to call a relative, friend, or caregiver, and the device is designed for secure, continuous monitoring.
- Subscription Service: Requires a monthly subscription of $49.99 with a 1-year contract, covering unlimited tracking, 60 voice minutes per month, premium safety features, and more. The Guardian Kit includes a GPS device, wearable sleeve, and customer care support.
Catch-all solutions to care options are few and far between. There’s normally something missing, right? Not so with these wearable GPS trackers! Of course, you get the standard location tracking, boundary notifications, and cellular app. But what’s more, the AngelSense GPS tracker gives them somewhere to turn to when in trouble!
What sets this GPS locator apart is how it figures out the wearer’s routine. Not to be creepy, but it can tell when the user deviates from their typical day. Noticing when they are outside of known areas or when their route suddenly changes can be life-saving. Once notified, you can activate the speakerphone to ask what’s happening and help.
Unfortunately, many seniors enter assisted living after experiencing a fall. Speed is essential after a bad fall. How fast they can get help often factors into their quality of life going forward. That’s why the fall detection feature is so important! Caregivers and families would receive alerts on their phones, ensuring the fastest response possible.
PRODUCT | KEY FEATURES | SPECS | AMAZON RATING |
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| As of 3/26/2024 4.1 Stars | 733 Ratings |
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Jacob Contreras Positive Review |
Amazon.com- Review Date - September 5, 2023 Everything about this is perfect for our family! The calls are clear! Tracking is great and hasn’t glitched. The reminder to change for the next day is awesome! And my kiddo doesn’t have a problem wearing it with their compression shirt. |
Rudy R. Negative Review |
Amazon.com - Review Date - June 21, 2023 When I purchased this GPS tracker, they never told me that I had to pay over $550 to have it working. I bought it around 6 months ago, and I was barely trying to connect, but they are charging me over $550 to have the plan. This is ridicule; how come it's not in the purchase detail? |
Check out a testimonial on AngelSense micro GPS here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d9MxYfCBlos
Theora Connect: The Best GPS Tracker Watch For the Elderly
Key Features
- Smart Fall Detection: Alerts caregivers automatically if a fall occurs, enabling immediate two-way communication without button pressing.
- GPS Tracking: “Turbo mode” for quick location updates, ideal for wandering incidents with built-in GPS.
- Comfortable Design: Water-resistant, 2-ounce watch in two sizes, with analog or digital face options.
- Direct Communication: Auto-answer for easy communication, accepts calls only from authorized numbers.
- Easy-to-Use App: Compatible with Theora Link Pro™ app; flexible monthly service, no contract, cancel anytime.
Taking the best care of senior family members can be difficult. Easy solutions aren’t always the best, but devices like the Theora GPS watch for elderly people dispel that myth. It’s got fun features that’ll keep seniors engaged and allow you to keep a close eye.
Worn on the wrist, telling time like watches used to do, there’s nothing simpler. All the while, you have immediate access to essential caregiver resources. Invaluable insights into the wearer’s activity count every step and notify caregivers with boundary alerts.
Sometimes, a senior with dementia can become sensitive to the world around them. Things can become confusing and not make sense. If they try to remove their tracker watch, they could become lost without help. Theora’s unique clasping mechanism prevents that, saving you the hassle and worry of losing an aging parent.
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Watch a real customer review of this elderly GPS tracker on YouTube here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rqsiWWiVPy4
INVISA WEAR: Fashionable GPS Tracking For Seniors
 | Fashionable GPS Tracking For Seniors invisawear
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Key Features
- Live Video Streaming: ADT agents can view live video via the invisaWear app, helping locate you and providing video to authorities.
- Reassurance Calls: 24/7 access to ADT agents who stay on the phone until you’re safe, with emergency assistance if needed.
- Voice Activation: Set a secret phrase for hands-free, discreet ADT alerts without needing to reach your device.
- Discreet Chat Feature: Text ADT for assistance or stay alert via the invisaWear app, ensuring discretion in sensitive situations.
- Additional Safety Features: Offers self-defense classes, SOS alerts to contacts, 9-1-1 alerts, location sharing, and 24/7 professional monitoring
Stylish and beautiful, the InvisaWear series of GPS-tracking jewelry is fabulous for the fashion-centered! Not only pretty, but it also has a hidden panic button powered by ADT that can be pressed in an emergency.
These necklaces, bracelets, and even scrunchies have SOS buttons built in to alert up to five emergency contacts. Paired with a smartphone, it even connects a live ADT agent with the camera! Seeing what they see, the agent can help lead people with dementia to safety.
It can’t be denithatthe Invisa Wear is one of the more expensive items on the list. With the non-replaceable battery, they’re guaranteed to last a year with typical use. Discounted replacements are available beyond that point if you want to continue service. And yes, there’s a monthly charge, too. However, ADT is a very widely trusted security company, and their level of service can be worth the cost.
PRODUCT | KEY FEATURES | SPECS | AMAZON RATING |
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| As of 3/26/2024 4.0 Stars | 73 Ratings |
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Figz Positive Review |
Amazon.com- Review Date - June 1, 2023 I wish it was waterproof. I used it yesterday when I became overheated and fainted. Quick response from paramedics and family members. |
Raenia Cantlow Negative Review |
Amazon.com - Review Date - December 26, 2023 Return merchandise |
Check out an unboxing video of the InvisaWear dementia tracker via Senior Safety Advice
Geozilla GPS Location Tracker: Low-Cost Real-Time GPS With Crash Detection
 | Low-Cost Real-Time GPS With Crash Detection Geozilla GPS Location Tracker
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Key Features
- Global Coverage: Offers USA and worldwide tracking for seniors, with precise location monitoring via an iOS/Android app.
- Customizable Alerts and Safety Features: Includes an SOS button for emergencies and geofence zones for arrival/departure notifications, enhancing safety for elderly users.
- Rechargeable Long-Lasting Battery: Up to 5 days of battery life with 60-second location updates, featuring battery-safe mode when not in use.
- Compact and Discreet Design: Mini GPS tracker, small and lightweight, can be easily attached to clothing or personal items, ideal for discreet monitoring of seniors.
- Flexible Service Plans: Monthly subscription starting at $19.99, with lower rates for long-term plans and a 30-day free extension on any service plan purchase.
There’s a lot to love with the Geozilla GPS location tracker. It’s tiny, weighs just over one ounce, and has 144 hours of standby time. But the price! At a low $19 monthly subscription, it’s a cost-effective GPS tracker for seniors that keeps them safe. With all this, who’d expect it to also have harsh behavior monitoring behind the wheel and crash detection?
That’s right! Geozilla has made a nice all-in-one here. Emergencies are much less stressful with important location updates, driver behavior reports, and SOS buttons. This feature-packed, miniature device is a quality product.
With over 10 million downloads on the Google Play Store, Geozilla is one of the most popular GPS devices that promotes independent living for your senior loved ones.
PRODUCT | KEY FEATURES | SPECS | AMAZON RATING |
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| As of 3/26/2024 3.4 Stars | 96 Ratings |
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Rick Barreto Positive Review |
Amazon.com- Review Date - September 1, 2022 We’ve trained our younger daughter to put this on when she’s running around the neighborhood with other kids. Give us peace of mind knowing exactly where she is. |
WARREN J Negative Review |
Amazon.com - Review Date - May 30, 2022 I purchased the device with an interest in checking it out but found the instructions too complicated and never set it up. Out of the blue, I'm being charged $19.00 a month for a service I never set up or requested. There's no contact number to call to have the service canceled. This is ridiculous. Please stop charging me!!! |
Read what real customers had to say about GeoZilla GPS on Google Review below:
JioBit GPS Tracker For Elderly: An Amazon Choice For Wearable GPS Locator For Seniors
 | Amazon Choice For Wearable GPS Locator For Seniors JioBit GPS Tracker For Elderly
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Key Features
- Compact and Versatile: Small, lightweight, durable, attaches easily to clothing, shoes, backpacks, and pet collars, suitable for sensitivity issues.
- Real-Time GPS Tracking: Uses GPS, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth for accurate location sharing with unlimited nationwide range.
- Smart Alerts & History: Set custom places for entry/exit alerts and access location history for unexpected detours.
- Subscription Plan Required: Jiobit needs a subscription for connectivity, with no extra SIM or cellular plan, compatible with Android and Apple devices.
Memory care for Alzheimer’s disease and dementia begins with honest care assessments. In the early stages, senior living styles don’t need to be severely impacted immediately. In later stages, keeping an eye on their position can become critical. Confusion becomes frequent, and an unrecognized device like the Theora GPS tracking watch can distress them.
The JioBit is a tiny personal GPS tracker meant to be forgotten. At only 18 grams, locking it in place on a patient’s clothes won’t cause any bother. Special latching accessories keep it in place on pants, jackets, purses, and even shoes! It must be part of the reason it’s #23 on Amazon’s chart of GPS trackers!
It’s always heart-stopping when aging parents or patients get lost. Thankfully, JioBit devices are super-accurate trackers for elderly loved ones. Dots on the map, or breadcrumbs, show the wearer’s exact path, meaning you can find them super fast.
PRODUCT | KEY FEATURES | SPECS | AMAZON RATING |
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| As of 3/26/2024 4.0 Stars | 2,459 Ratings |
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Lavinia E Magruder Positive Review |
Amazon.com- Review Date - December 26, 2023 This works great and was very easy to set up, even for someone who is not tech-savvy. I use it for my pup, and the battery lasts quite a while if you follow the instructions. It is also super easy to sign other people up to be able to monitor. Would recommend! |
Chris Geer Negative Review |
Amazon.com - Review Date - January 11, 2024 My device is 2 weeks old, and I'm unable to get a charger for it or any accessories for wearing it. Jiobits service blew me away, saying sorry, we don't have them, and we have no idea when we will get them. So now I have a useless keychain with a paid subscription. Go with Angelsense; their support is top-notch. |
Read a full review by PC Mag on this GPS tracker for the elderly by clicking here!
Bay Alarm Medical Alert – Best Home Monitoring With SOS Call
 | Best Home Monitoring With SOS Call Medical Guardian
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- Extended Battery Life: Offers up to 6 days of battery life, varying with network connection and signal strength, suitable for constant senior care.
- Water-Resistant Design: IP67 is reliable for use in showers or rain, ensuring continuous protection in various environments.
- Auto Fall Detection: Optional feature that automatically detects falls and alerts a 24/7 monitoring station, enhancing safety for seniors without manual intervention.
- Caregiver Tracking Feature: Allows caregivers to monitor the current location in real-time, access location history, and receive low battery alerts via the Bay Alarm Medical App.
- Lightweight and Compact: Designed for easy carrying, the device is lightweight and small, making it discreet and comfortable for seniors to wear daily
Bay Alarm Medical’s home monitoring system is sophisticated care technology designed to be your medical guardian. It’s one of those systems that are essential for providing timely support when it matters most. While not GPS tracking devices, we had to include Bay Alarm for their vital service.
The kit includes a tracker watch with an emergency button that seniors can activate if they fall. A 4G cellular medical alert system base station sends an SOS call to the Bay Alarm call center. When EMTs arrive, they can locate pertinent medical information from a document they call the Vial of Life. For tracking outside the home, they also offer a 4G LTE line of devices.
PRODUCT | KEY FEATURES | SPECS | AMAZON RATING |
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| As of 3/26/2024 3.8 Stars | 453 Ratings |
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Jim Maurer Positive Review |
Amazon.com- Review Date - December 29, 2022 It's easy to use, and it gives us peace of mind knowing my brother-in-law can just press a button if he needs help. |
Beth Negative Review |
Amazon.com - Review Date - July 5, 2023 Setup was easy! Very nice representative. Amazon states on here that there is fall detection, but there is not!! Be aware!!! Fall detection is not available on this device. |
Read a detailed review of this reliable GPS for Alzheimer’s or dementia by Senior Living
Zio AT – Best Mobile Cardiac Telemetry Monitor
Key Features
- Next-Generation Design: The Zio monitor is lighter, smaller, and thinner, offering a comfortable wear experience for continuous heart monitoring.
- Continuous Monitoring Service: Zio XT provides uninterrupted recording and a detailed report at the end of wear.
- Mobile Cardiac Telemetry: Zio AT offers Mobile Cardiac Telemetry (MCT) monitoring with actionable reports and comprehensive data at the end of wear.
- Effective Clinical Outcomes: Associated with the lowest likelihood of retesting, fastest clinical diagnosis, and reduced acute healthcare resource utilization.
- Higher Arrhythmia Detection Rate: More effective in detecting specified arrhythmias compared to Holter, event monitoring, and other long-term continuous monitoring services.
Although the Zio AT is not a GPS device, it deserves mention for its ability to track heart data. The problem is that irregular heartbeats and arrhythmias happen at, well, irregular intervals. The standard Holter device with electrocardiographic adhesive tape measures heart activity for only one or two days. Enter the Zio AT! Collecting data over 14 days is three times as accurate as the Holter device!
Detecting irregularities in the heart over such an extended period is a game-changer in cardiac medicine. As well, it’s small enough to have little impact on the wearer’s daily life! Water resistance even permits exercise and showering while tracking heart data!
Talk to your patients or your medical providers about Zio AT. It’s estimated that over 2.7 million people may live with undiagnosed atrial fibrillation, a quivering of the heart. Get the knowledge you need for informed decisions with the Zio AT!
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Click this video to hear what a cardiologist has to say about Zio AT for assisted living seniors – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8k8pjIAn6t0
SecuLife SOS GPS Tracker: Great For Seniors With Dementia
 | Great For Seniors With Dementia SecuLife SOS GPS Tracker
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Key Features
- Elderly Monitoring with SOS Button: Offers an assistive speakerphone and SOS button for instant communication, no phone numbers needed.
- 24/7 Real-Time GPS Tracking: Enables continuous monitoring of location, specifically designed for easy tracking of seniors.
- Comfortable Wearable Design: Lightweight emergency button that can be set to call a specific person, attachable to clothing or accessories for discreet use.
- Affordable Subscription with Easy Activation: $17/month for an annual subscription, includes a 4G LTE SIM card, mobile app access, unlimited tracking, voice calling, and safety features.
- Geofencing and Emergency Assistance: Set multiple geofence areas for alerts and offers a dedicated SOS button for quick emergency response
With dementia, keeping a loved one safe is an all-day job. That’s why long-lasting batteries are critical! The SecuLife GPS locator lasts 8 to 24 hours, which is perfect for daily outings.
By now, you will be familiar with premium features like speakerphones, emergency buttons, and geofencing. Each of these incredible tools is invaluable in-home care, and SecuLife has it all! There’s no compromise, here. You’ll know when grandparents and patients wander, and they can always reach out when needed.
Reviewers on Amazon simply love the SecuLife tracker. It’s saved a few people the worry and hassle that comes with caring for those with dementia. However, ‘ware the charger. One reviewer mentioned the charger was proprietary and lamented this fact after losing it.
PRODUCT | KEY FEATURES | SPECS | AMAZON RATING |
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| As of 3/26/2024 3.6 Stars | 97 Ratings |
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Tara Positive Review |
Amazon.com- Review Date -August 6, 2023 Works great! I can keep tabs on my son and even contact him to check on him without giving him a cellphone. This product is perfect for our needs, and I would highly recommend it. |
Anne H. Negative Review |
Amazon.com - Review Date - August 15, 2023 It's not working! I just activated it and paid for the premium package coverage. But when I go into the app, the device shows offline! |
ZOLEO: A Mini GPS Tracker With Global Coverage For Seniors
 | Mini GPS Tracker With Global Coverage For Seniors ZOLEO
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Key Features
- Global Two-Way Communication: Offers worldwide messaging via satellite, cellular, or Wi-Fi, with a monthly subscription plan required.
- Messaging Options: Seamlessly transmits messages to any SMS number, email address, or ZOLEO app user, using the lowest-cost network available.
- Dedicated Contact Details: Provides a unique ZOLEO SMS number and email address for others to initiate contact.
- Emergency Alerting & Medical Assist: Includes 24/7 emergency monitoring service for SOS alerts and GPS coordinates, plus non-emergency medical chat assistance.
- Check-In & Location Sharing: Features check-in and GPS location sharing through the app, messages, and a secure Share Map URL; optional Location Share+ for automatic updates.
No, these portable GPS trackers aren’t explicitly designed for seniors. The ZOLEO doesn’t track any medical data; however, it is small and works globally. It’s typically used by hikers, search and rescue, and reporters. But it can also be a lifeline for seniors traveling abroad or living alone!
Many of us have family living with no cell coverage in the middle of nowhere! Imagine your grandparents living without coverage and unable to reach out! Perfect for remote areas, no one is ever truly lost with ZOLEO global location trackers. But with no-gap coverage powered by the incredibly reliable Iridium network, you’re always connected. SOS alerts and text messages get through, even in the mountains and vast plains!
It’s a rugged and long-lasting mini GPS tracker. Designed for adventure, it can go anywhere those charter buses, cruise ships, and group vacations get to. If they get separated from the group, they can click the SOS button and get help.
PRODUCT | KEY FEATURES | SPECS | AMAZON RATING |
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| As of 3/26/2024 4.5 Stars | 2,485 Ratings |
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HBALL33 Positive Review |
Amazon.com- Review Date - December 26, 2023 Zoleo works great when you don't have cell or internet services. I use it almost every day for work to communicate with my family when I'm 50+ miles offshore for long periods of time. Easy to recharge, and the battery lasts a long time. It's used in connection with your cell phone and blue tooth. Fortunately, I have not had to use the emergency SOS services, so I can't review that, and hopefully I never will. Commercial fishing in the north-east |
Dustin James Churchill Negative Review |
Amazon.com - Review Date - December 4, 2023 I bought the Zolio a little over 2 years ago and never ended up activating it. I pulled it out of the box a couple days ago to get it fired up and ready, and as I moved to a new location, I now want to use it. It won't take a charge, so there's basically nothing I can do with it. I contacted Zoleo, and other than some troubleshooting, which didn't work, there was nothing they were willing to do for me, even though I've never even been able to use the device once. They referred me to the Amazon Seller blue Cosmo that I bought the unit from, and I'm waiting to hear back from them. I will be very disappointed if, after spending $200, I never even get to turn the darn thing on. |
Apple AirTags – Affordable BlueTooth Tracking Devices
 | Affordable BlueTooth Tracking Devices Apple AirTag
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Key Features
- Elderly-Friendly Item Tracking: Use AirTag with the Find My app to help seniors easily locate everyday items, supporting their independence.
- Simple Setup for Seniors: Offers a one-tap setup with iPhone or iPad, making it senior-friendly and easy to connect.
- Audible Locator: Features a built-in speaker to emit sound, aiding seniors in finding misplaced items, with Siri integration for voice-activated assistance.
- Precision Finding for Nearby Items: Utilizes Ultra Wideband technology, ideal for seniors to accurately locate items within proximity using specific iPhone models.
- Lost Mode for Safety and Peace of Mind: In Lost Mode, seniors or caregivers are automatically notified when the AirTag is detected, ensuring privacy and security in senior care environments.
There’s no question that Apple produces some of the most popular phones on the market. They’ve struck gold again with the Apple AirTag! Combatting high-cost care options, caregivers have begun using it as a GPS tracker for dementia patients!
The AirTag doesn’t have cellular connectivity, so don’t expect it to work out in the middle of nowhere. However, utilizing the iPhone’s popularity, it’ll provide real-time GPS updates when an iPhone passes within Bluetooth range. Transmission using low-power BLE is a big factor in extending the small battery’s life to nearly a year.
These features make it ideal for budget-conscious tracking, but it was designed to track your keys! For only $29, with no monthly cost beyond your service plan, it’s the least expensive tracker out there. Just remember that there are still budget-friendly devices that offer more robust services.
PRODUCT | KEY FEATURES | SPECS | AMAZON RATING |
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| As of 3/26/2024 4.7 Stars | 174,589 Ratings |
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Rick Gabriel Positive Review |
Amazon.com- Review Date - January 12, 2024 Exceeded all expectations. I was able to track golf clubs and luggage. I also misplaced my wallet, and this tag helped me find it!! Highly recommended!! |
Lisa Cullen Negative Review |
Amazon.com - Review Date - January 12, 2024 I purchased it to track my daughter's car, and as soon as she leaves, so does the air tag location. To return it and have to wait a month for a refund is unacceptable. I will not be purchasing items like this from Amazon again. It’s bad enough it doesn’t work for my purpose, but I have to wait a month for the refund, but it had to be returned in 2 weeks for the return window. |
Stages of Dementia: Understanding the 7 Different Phases of the Disease and Their Characteristics
Unfortunately, there are multiple kinds of dementia, not all of which follow this pattern. Frontotemporal dementia begins with damage to the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain. People suffering from low blood flow to the brain may experience vascular dementia. However, most dementia patients will experience one or more of the following stages of decline:
- Preclinical Phase. While present, the disease does not show any symptoms.
- Prodromal Phase. This is where mild memory loss and difficulty concentrating begin to occur.
- Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI). Although there is a more noticeable cognitive decline, people are still able to live daily life without assistance.
- Mild Dementia. The middle stages see more pronounced symptoms that begin to interfere with daily activities. Familiar tasks may become difficult, and getting lost becomes more frequent.
- Moderate Dementia. This phase sees more confusion, disorientation, and possible personality changes. The person now requires more assistance with daily activities.
- Moderately Severe Dementia. Becoming more dependent on others for care, the individual may also experience difficulty in speech and communication.
- Severe Dementia. In the final phase, the person loses the ability to communicate. They also need help eating, have difficulty swallowing, and are bedridden.
Not all people experience the stages of dementia in the same pattern. At the first signs of cognitive decline, you or your loved one should seek guidance from professional sources.
