GPS tracking device

Introduction: Peace of Mind for You and Safety for Your Loved Ones

A GPS device should be a priority for loved ones who suffer from dementia or Alzheimer's, as they can be prone to wandering. These types of behaviour can be hazardous as they can end up in frightening situations, such as being in a dangerous area and also being outside for a long period in extreme weather.

Use a GPS device to keep yourself or your loved one safe. Here are some of the benefits a GPS device offers:

Safety: The top benefit a GPS device provides is safety - you will always be aware of their location and able to locate them quickly in an emergency.

Peace of Mind: GPS devices offer security and peace of mind, knowing that your loved ones are safe and knowing their location. The devices do a ‘heartbeat’ (Sending a data signal to the tracking portal) every 20 minutes to update the device battery/location passively, and the call centre controller/family can request the live location at any time. Not only that, but when the battery is low, the customer is called/monitored to make sure the device does not shut off. We recommend charging your device overnight to avoid the battery running out during the day when in use. Give yourself peace of mind with a GPS device.

Quick emergency response: Unfortunately, emergencies can happen, which is never a good thing, but being able to respond quickly can reduce the risk of something serious happening.

Independence: A GPS device gives your loved ones the independence to go out on their own and complete daily tasks without the need for others if they are capable. A GPS device allows them to still have the safety of others knowing their whereabouts. It gives reassurance to the customer and family knowing that if they need help, they have the technology to call for help anywhere within the UK, giving them the freedom and independence to go about their daily tasks and, in turn, boosting confidence within themselves.

Geofencing: Some GPS devices offer this smart feature, whereby you can create a location boundary, and if this is crossed, you will be automatically notified, therefore preventing potential harmful situations. This is also great if someone has dementia, is prone to wandering or has a Herbert protocol in place, as the device will trigger when they have left the location with two-way voice capability, the call centre can find/track where they are going and inform the local authorities or emergency contacts to retrieve the customer.

Cost: Having a GPS device can reduce other costs, such as a full-time carer or additional help.

Easy to use: Our GPS devices are made to be easy and quick to use with no complications. The GPS devices also feature an easy charging system, making the technology do the hard work for you. If the customer is prone to falls, we can also activate a fall sensor within the GPS device, so if they have a tumble, a call will be placed, and we can assist.

Why Use GPS Devices for your loved one?

If your loved one suffers from wandering, cognitive decline leading to confusion and disorientation, or serious health issues, then a GPS device could be beneficial in ensuring their safety. Not only does it provide you (the individual’s family or caregiver)  with peace of mind and a sense of security, knowing where they are and knowing you’ll be notified if required, but it also enables them to maintain independence, allowing them to go out and complete daily tasks while staying safe.

Types of GPS Devices

inMobile Key Features of the inMobile GPS Device
  • GPS tracking for location monitoring
  • One-touch SOS button for emergencies
  • Two-way voice communication (built-in speaker and microphone) 
  • Fall detection sensor 
  • docking /charging station (easy for elderly users)
  • Can be carried on a keyring, lanyard or pocket
The Pros of the inMobile GPS Device
  • Discreet and simple - has the appearance of a small fob 
  • Easy charging with a docking station, so no fiddly cables
  • Loud speaker and clear audio for emergency calls
  • Portable - the user does not have to wear it on their wrist
  • Longer battery life than a smartwatch in many cases
The Cons of the inMobile GPS Device
  • Easier to forget or misplace since it is not worn all of the time
  • Less suitable for dementia patients who may not carry it with them 
  • No step counting or health tracking features like a watch
ZinWatch Key features of the ZinWatch GPS device 
  • Built-in GPS tracking 
  • SOS button with two-way calling 
  • Fall detection sensor 
  • Worn on the wrist, therefore it is always accessible 
  • Time display with  basic smartwatch functions and health tracking 
The pros of the ZinWatch GPS device 
  • Always on hand, therefore less likely to be forgotten or lost 
  • Fall detection adds automatic safety beyond just SOS
  • Discreet and plain appearance, blending in as a regular smartwatch 
  • Comfortable and lightweight, creating ease when wearing daily 
  • Useful for wandering alerts in dementia or alzheimers care 
The cons of the ZinWatch GPS device
  • Battery life is shorter (needs charging 1-2 days) 
  • Some elderly users may find the touchscreen fiddly 
  • Wearing a watch may feel restrictive or uncomfortable for some
  • Charging requires removing and docking the watch 

How GPS Tracking Devices Work

In simple terms, GPS devices work by connecting to satellites and sending information via the network, which allows the location of the GPS to be tracked. In most cases, GPS devices will be associated with a platform, which could be an app or a website or both, and allow you to create an account to apply your preferences and settings. For any assistance with viewing, tracking or accessing your account, please do not hesitate to contact us. A feature that our GPS devices have is geo-fencing. Geo-fencing allows you to set boundaries on a map where your loved one is safe to be. Once this boundary is crossed, you will receive a notification immediately to alert you, as well as give details of the new location. With this feature, you can quickly respond to scenarios, limiting the risk of danger and giving you additional confidence day to day. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  • How accurate are GPS tracking devices?
Our tracking devices are very reliable and accurate. The connection is reliable and accurate unless there are any major obstructions. The connection and accuracy of our devices can also be improved by connecting to wifi or cellular data.
  • Can these devices be used indoors?
Our devices can be used indoors or outdoors; however, we'd suggest that they be used outdoors for ultimate connection due to no obstructions. However, with most homes and buildings having WIFI or cellular data on phones, this helps the connection. 
  • How easy is it for the user to wear and use GPS devices?
GPS devices are made to be easy and comfortable for the user to wear. They usually come in many different forms, which you can pick from, such as wristbands, clip-ons, pendants and many more.
  • Are there subscription fees for these devices?
No - you’ll just pay the regular monthly fee for either Monitoring and Response or Monitoring Only. The SIM card fee is already built into that cost, so you don’t have to worry about any surprise charges.

Provide Carecall247 Team

Written by the Provide Carecall247 team.