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Elderly parents

Recommendations for a simple fall-detecting watch for an elderly parent please

31 replies

DownmarketSellingSunset · 01/07/2026 13:03

I need to find a fall-detecting watch for my dad, who lives in a bungalow adjacent to our house and has advanced MS but maintains some much fought-for independence. He really struggles with learning to use new things so the simpler the better. Easy to put on and take off would be good too. He suggested this solution as he's fallen a lot recently and we all worry that he won't be able to reach his phone and will be there for hours. However, he is struggling to do the research on a suitable model. He has an android phone, so an iphone is out, I think? Has anyone used one in the past for elderly parents and can recommend (or advise against!) a specific watch?

OP posts:
LoafofSellotape · 01/07/2026 22:41

He needs a care line watch, it's goes on and never comes off even in the bath/ shower. Can detect falls and you press it if you need help. About £20 a month or sometimes local authorities provide them cheaper. They recommended the watch as it doesn't get tangled in clothing like the pendant does and less tempting to take off.

LadyGardenersQuestionTime · 01/07/2026 22:35

Second a proper careline falls alarm - a real human being at the other end and if they can’t get hold of you they will call the emergency services for your dad. You can get ones that go off automatically if you fall, and ones you wear on your wrist.

ListenToAlfDubs · 01/07/2026 22:34

Just a note of caution - they don't work if the wearer falls slowly. My dad was found on the floor. He had probably leant on the wall when he felt ill so there wasn't a sudden impact

Havealovelyday · 01/07/2026 22:18

Your stride watch is excellent. It has fall
detection and he can also press a button to speak to them for help in any other situation. It works away from home also. Really easy to use. We’ve had years of use and peace of mind from it. Recommend

thesandwich · 01/07/2026 14:59

Worth looking at what your local authority recommend in terms of pendant/ watch alarms with call buttons.

Murrelet · 01/07/2026 14:35

The latest Google Pixel watches have fall detection.

I haven't used it, but I looked at the specs.