A digital tool designed to monitor the location and well-being of aging individuals. These applications typically utilize GPS technology and cellular networks to provide real-time location updates, establish geofences (virtual boundaries), and offer emergency alert functionalities. As an example, a caregiver could use such an application to receive a notification if a parent wanders outside a designated safe zone, such as their home or neighborhood.
The significance of these tools lies in their ability to promote independence while ensuring safety and providing peace of mind to family members. Historically, monitoring elderly individuals relied heavily on constant direct supervision or periodic check-ins. Modern tracking applications offer a less intrusive and more technologically advanced approach, fostering autonomy for the elderly while offering a safety net. This can reduce anxiety and improve the overall quality of life for both the individual being monitored and their caregivers.