How to Choose a Medical Alert Smartwatch

Selecting a medical alert smartwatch requires careful consideration to select the features that best suit your needs, whether to be used more as a health monitor or more as a safety device. Worn relatively unobtrusively on the wrist like any watch, these devices are particularly beneficial for seniors or individuals with medical conditions who want independence while ensuring help is always within reach.

Perhaps the most important feature to look for is emergency assistance. Any medical alert device, including the smartwatch, should have a dedicated SOS button that instantly connects the wearer to emergency services or a loved one. Some models can include fall detection, which can automatically recognize a sudden fall and alert emergency responders. For individuals at risk of wandering, GPS tracking is an essential feature, allowing family members or medical personnel to locate the user quickly. And even aside from wandering, in an emergency it can be crucial that the responding center can locate the user automatically.

Beyond emergency response, a medical alert smartwatch can serve as a health tracker, offering medication reminders, weather updates and step counting. Some models can come equipped with heart rate monitoring, which can detect irregularities and help users manage their cardiovascular health. Some advanced options also include blood oxygen monitoring (SpO2) and ECG/EKG capabilities, which are especially valuable for those with heart conditions. Additionally, sleep tracking can provide insights into sleep patterns, helping users and caregivers address potential sleep issues.

When considering a smartwatch, connectivity is a key factor – this is perhaps the greatest difference between a dedicated medical alert watch and the smartphone companion watch. While the general-purpose smartwatch needs to be paired with its parent smartphone, a dedicated medical alert smartwatch typically has its own SIM card and connects independently with cellular service, allowing users to make emergency calls without needing a connected smartphone, or even having a personal cellular account. Most offer two-way communication, meaning the wearer can speak directly with a caregiver or emergency responder.

Since ease of use is essential, a medical alert smartwatch should have a clear, bright display with simple controls. It should also be lightweight and comfortable for all-day wear, with a durable, water-resistant design for added protection and usability. It’s useful to choose a reliable brand with good customer reviews and robust customer service in case of technical issues.

The SOS Smartwatch

For those specifically considering the Bay Alarm Medical SOS Smartwatch, this device stands out as a practical and user-friendly option designed with seniors in mind. Unlike general-purpose smartwatches that act as the companion to a smartphone, Bay Alarm’s model is purpose-built for safety and emergency response.

The watch features a prominent SOS button, which connects the user to a certified professional emergency monitoring center operating 24/7. A built-in speaker and microphone enable two-way communication, allowing the user to speak directly with emergency personnel. The device can also include fall detection, using AI technology that continuously improves its accuracy

The GPS tracking in the watch means that in the event of an emergency, the monitoring center can automatically pinpoint the user’s location. As an added bonus, the user’s medical information is also provided automatically to the monitoring center, which obviously helps guide any first responders who may be called to the scene.

Beyond its emergency functions, the SOS Smartwatch includes basic health monitoring features such as a step counter to encourage physical activity. The interface is user-friendly, with a bright display and simple tap-and-swipe navigation. The water-resistant design (IP67 rating) allows the wearer to keep it on while showering, ensuring safety throughout the day.

Battery life is between 6 to 18 hours per charge, depending on usage, and like most watches this one needs to be charged nightly to ensure uninterrupted protection. The charging process itself is straightforward, taking about 2 to 3 hours using the included charging cradle.

Overall, the Bay Alarm Medical SOS Smartwatch is a strong choice for those looking for a reliable, easy-to-use medical alert system in a smartwatch format. Dedicated to its simple core functions, the watch comes at an affordable price compared with others on the market. See more about the SOS Smartwatch features.