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Studies have shown that wearables are incredibly popular and will be an increasingly common item in the coming years, including for seniors. According to a 2024 report, published by Global Cardiology Science & Practice, “The number of smartwatch and fitness-tracker shipments is expected to increase by 11% between 2021 and 2024. It is expected that 280 million units will be shipped worldwide by 2024.” However, the smartwatch industry has more work to do to make those 65 and older comfortable adopting and using them. With that in mind, we've broken down the models into two groups, featuring three models from traditional tech companies for seniors confident in using technology and tech devices (like our best overall, the Apple Watch Ultra 2) and two others from medical alert system companies for seniors who aren't as comfortable with technology or using smartwatches. Read on for five of the best smartwatches for seniors.
- Best overall: Apple Watch Ultra 2
- Best with caregiver monitoring features: Medical Guardian MGMove
- Best for call support and customer service: Kanega Watch
- Best for Android: Google Pixel Watch 3
- Best budget: Amazfit GTR 4 Smart Watch
How we chose the best smartwatches for seniors
I've been writing about mobile consumer electronics products and IoT devices for consumers for many years and have published my stories in various publications, including PCMag.com, Professional Artist magazine, Consumer Reports, The New York Times, Tom's Guide, Artnews, and Popular Science, of course.
During that time, I heard countless complaints from seniors concerned that it often seemed most manufacturers were only interested in designing and producing products targeted at teens and young adults. So, for this story, I kept this group in mind by suggesting smartwatches that would meet the needs of those 65 and older. Also, I looked at critical reviews and user recommendations and did a lot of research to narrow down our list. Additionally, I carefully considered several factors to find the best smartwatches, including ease of use, battery life, feature sets (particularly health and fitness-related features), and versatility.
The best smartwatches for seniors: Reviews & Recommendations
In the 2024 Global Cardiology Science & Practice report it states, “One concern in the use of wearable technology for monitoring health data is user ability and the adoption of the technology. In a survey of 600 senior citizens who were aware of wearable technology devices, 75% self-reported they had ‘low experience' using items such as a smartwatch.”
The report continues, “In a focus group study of 19 senior citizens interested in the features and benefits of a smartwatch, concerns were raised regarding usability, including accessibility (larger icons), notification customization,
