Fitness wearables are all the rage these days, and for good reason. Devices that track your footsteps, calories burned and weight lost are excellent for keeping yourself accountable, staying in shape and keeping an eye on your health. They can also make working out more fun and fulfilling by providing tangible proof when you improve your performance over time.
With the ability to monitor your heart rate, blood pressure and other vital signs, these trackers are especially helpful for older adults. This data makes it easier to monitor your health and adjust your habits and provides great information for doctor’s appointments. Trackers can even send out alerts and help prevent falls.
Given wearables’ popularity among consumers of all ages, there’s no shortage of options. With so many wristbands, watches, insoles and more available, it can be tough just to pick the right device. To help, we’ve compiled information about five of the best fitness wearables we’ve found for seniors.
1. Fitbit Charge 2
The newest edition of Fitbit’s popular wristband, the Charge 2 is one of the best overall trackers for seniors. It includes a heart rate monitor, GPS data capturing, and tracking for weights, yoga, running and a long list of other activities. It also includes a cardio fitness monitor that scores your fitness level and helps you understand where (and how) you can improve. Finally, the SmartTrack feature automatically tracks your activity during workouts, even when you forget to activate it.
2. Lechal Insoles
Designed with safety in mind, these insoles help people with visual impairment stay active and avoid falls. They gently vibrate to provide the wearer with directional cues, offering greater independence to seniors who might otherwise not be able to exercise. The insoles also include a location-sharing smartphone app, which allows caregivers to keep an eye on their loved ones wherever they are.
3. Withings Pulse Ox
The Withings Pulse Ox monitors a wide range of vital signs and health markers, including heart rate, blood oxygen levels and even sleep quality. It also lets users swipe back and forth between different days’ workouts, making it easy to see when you’ve beaten your personal records. With such in-depth monitoring capabilities, the Pulse Ox is ideal for seniors who want to stay independent and keep tabs on their health.
4. Jawbone Up24
One of the lighter, sleeker wearables available, the Jawbone Up24 is great for all-day use. It also features an in-depth tracking app called Smart Coach, which helps wearers make better daily decisions about exercise, nutrition and sleep to help them maintain a healthy energy level. The Jawbone’s light weight is offset by its lack of screen, however, and it’s best for seniors who always keep their synced smartphones nearby.
5. Garmin Vivofit 2
Known for its reliable products, Garmin has created a sturdy, simple, easy-to-understand wearable. The Vivofit 2 includes a large, backlit display for easy viewing, as well as a separate chest strap for accurate heart monitoring. One of the more affordable wearables on the market, it is also waterproof and includes a low-maintenance, one-year battery life.
If you’re looking for a small investment that will help you maintain independence and keep track of your health, fitness wearables can be your best bet. By choosing one of the options listed above, you can start down a path to a healthier, more energized version of yourself.
Interested in learning more about how to age healthfully and feel more youthful? Check out our free resource, The Vitality Guide.
