A Fitness Tracker Guide for Seniors

No matter what type of workout you regularly enjoy, there are fitness trackers designed for certain purposes. For example, if you swim laps or take water aerobics classes, look for water-resistant fitness trackers that can be worn underwater without being damaged. Or, if you just want a simple fitness tracker, you can find one that functions primarily as a pedometer that records how many steps you take while walking, running or taking care of errands throughout the day.

If you want an activity tracker that measures more than just steps or distance, there are also fitness watches for seniors that have the ability to monitor health and wellness goals. This is especially helpful if your healthcare provider has suggested that you monitor your heart rate during exercise. Some of the best heart rate monitor watches for seniors also have fitness-tracking features, so you don’t need to buy more than one device. With a heart rate sensor fitness tracker, you also have access to specialized functions, such as a built-in pulse oximeter or a thermometer.

Most fitness trackers have exceptionally long battery lives, lasting days at a time before they need charging, and some have even longer battery lives than that. You can also extend battery life with models that have battery-saver modes that shut off GPS and other features when not in use. Some models can track sleep health, so longer battery life can be beneficial for that specific feature.

How you charge the unit varies as well. Select models have built-in solar panels that allow the tracker to charge while you're running errands or exercising. If you find charging with a wall socket to be inconvenient, some models have replaceable batteries you can buy. To ensure that charging is efficient, double-check that the fitness tracker charging cable is designed for the model you have.

One benefit of fitness watches and trackers is that they can connect to your computer, tablet, phone and even digital scales with smart technology. This feature allows you to track your progress, make activity charts and even offer rewards or congratulations when you hit certain exercise milestones.

Since learning how to use the best fitness or health watch for seniors can feel intimidating, remember that it might take a little patience and practice to adjust your device settings to your preferences. You can also ask family members or friends to help you understand your new gadget so you can feel capable using it on your own. Once you become familiar with it, this wearable technology is a fantastic tool for helping you maintain your independence as you age.