The Pro's Know

Expert Advice for Life After 60

Personal Safety Wearables That Give You — and Your Loved Ones — Peace of Mind

Personal Safety Wearables That Give You — and Your Loved Ones — Peace of Mind

As we get older, it’s natural to think more about personal safety. Whether it’s the risk of a fall, getting help in an emergency, or simply feeling secure when you’re out and about, knowing that help is always close can make all the difference. That’s where personal safety wearables come in.

Today’s devices are small, smart, and designed for everyday life — offering reassurance without being complicated or cumbersome.

What Are Personal Safety Wearables?

Personal safety wearables are devices designed to be worn on your body — like a watch, pendant, or clip — that make it easy to call for help in an emergency. Some connect directly to emergency response centers, while others alert family members or caregivers.

Common features include:

  • Emergency call buttons — Press once for immediate assistance.
  • Automatic fall detection — Alerts someone if a fall is detected.
  • GPS tracking — Allows family or emergency services to locate you quickly.
  • Two-way communication — Speak directly to a response center through the device.

Why They Matter for Everyday Confidence

It’s not just about emergencies. It’s about living your life without the nagging worry of “what if?”

  • Going for a walk, shopping, or running errands feels safer.
  • Living alone doesn’t mean feeling isolated.
  • Loved ones have peace of mind knowing you have a safety net.

A Real-Life Reminder of Why These Devices Matter

A friend of our family recently lost her husband in a heartbreaking accident. He was 80 years old and had started to lose some mobility in his legs and feet. One afternoon, while home alone, he took a fall. It’s unclear whether it was a heart attack or just a simple slip — but the result was devastating. He hit the floor hard and suffered a serious injury. He lay there, unable to move or call for help, for nearly eight hours before his wife returned home and found him. A wearable device with fall detection could have alerted someone right away — possibly saving his life.

Stories like this are a stark reminder: technology can’t prevent every accident, but it can make sure help is never too far away.

Top Personal Safety Wearables to Consider

  • Lively Mobile Plus — Simple design with automatic fall detection and a direct connection to 24/7 response agents.
  • Apple Watch SE or Series 9 — Includes Emergency SOS, fall detection, and seamless integration with your iPhone.
  • Bay Alarm Medical SOS Smartwatch — Combines health tracking with emergency alerts and GPS features.
  • Medical Guardian Mini Guardian — Compact, discreet, with nationwide GPS and emergency response.

How to Choose the Right Wearable for You

  • Decide if you want professional monitoring or family alerts — Some devices contact emergency services directly; others notify a loved one.
  • Look for simple controls — A device you can easily press in an emergency is key.
  • Check battery life — Make sure it’s something you can charge easily or wear all day.
  • Comfort matters — Choose a design that fits your lifestyle, whether that’s a watch, pendant, or clip-on device.

Everyday Scenarios Where a Personal Safety Wearable Can Make a Difference

  • Morning walks or evening strolls — A wearable ensures that if you slip or feel unwell, help is just a button away.
  • Running errands alone — Whether at the grocery store or in a parking lot, you have backup if something unexpected happens.
  • Traveling — Whether on a trip abroad or visiting family, a wearable can give peace of mind in unfamiliar surroundings.
  • Exercising or gardening outdoors — Activities with risk of falls are safer with a wearable.

Setting Up and Testing Your Personal Safety Wearable

  • Activate fall detection if available — Even if you don’t think you need it, enabling this feature can be lifesaving.
  • Test the emergency call function with family or monitoring service — Make sure you know exactly how it works.
  • Keep it charged and ready — Get into the habit of charging it overnight like a smartphone.
  • Familiarize yourself with the device’s settings — Knowing how to adjust volume or alerts can save time in an emergency.

Frequently Asked Questions About Personal Safety Wearables

Do I need a subscription for a personal safety wearable?
Some devices, especially those with 24/7 monitoring, require a monthly subscription. Others, like smartwatches with emergency features, may not.

Can I connect a wearable to my family instead of a call center?
Yes. Some devices allow you to set up family notifications instead of contacting emergency services directly.

Is a smartwatch as reliable as a dedicated medical alert device?
It depends on the situation. Smartwatches like the Apple Watch offer fall detection and emergency SOS, but they may not have dedicated monitoring services.

What if I’m not tech-savvy?
Many companies offer setup assistance and tutorials. Starting with a simple device with easy-to-press buttons can also make a big difference.

It’s Not About Expecting the Worst — It’s About Being Ready for Anything

Personal safety wearables aren’t about living in fear. They’re about living with confidence. Knowing you’ve got a lifeline within reach lets you — and the people who care about you — focus on enjoying life instead of worrying about what might happen.

Because sometimes, having that extra layer of protection makes all the difference.


Whether you’re considering a personal safety wearable for yourself or a loved one, taking the time to choose the right device — and learning how to use it — can offer a sense of security and freedom that’s priceless.