The Aging and Innovation Research Program, in collaboration with the Alzheimer Society of Ontario and AGE-WELL NCE, has compiled the following list of locator devices and technologies. This resource is intended to provide older adults, people living with Alzheimer’s disease or other dementias, care partners, and service providers with information regarding locator devices, which may be implemented to reduce the risks of a person going missing.
The tables below contain information on locator devices ranging from physical devices to mobile applications for smartphones. For each device, we have listed the digital tracking platform that allows a person's location to be monitored, the device's size and shape, the type of tracking technology, and the price. The section below contains details on the specific types of tracking technologies available.
Please note that these device specifications were current as of January of 2022 and therefore may not be reflective of current specifications. We strongly recommend you visit the manufacturer's website or contact the manufacturer for the most current information.
Tracking Technologies
Different tracking technologies are utilized by devices included within the list. These include GPS, bluetooth/proximity, and radio frequency (RF):
Global positioning systems (GPS)
Global positioning systems or GPS use information from orbiting satellites to locate an individual carrying a transmitter. GPS devices require a power source to function, which typically takes the form of a small battery. This means that most GPS transmitters need to be charged frequently. Many GPS devices allow for a third party (i.e., a care partner, family member, first responder) to locate the transmitter in real time via an internet or smartphone application. Although GPS allows for precise locating outdoors, environmental obstructions such as buildings and trees can limit their functionality, and therefore their effectiveness may be limited in dense urban environments. It is important to note that cellular reliant or based GPS tracking devices are highly accurate when they are under the coverage of a cellular network but will not work if they are out of the coverage area.
Bluetooth low energy (BLE)
Bluetooth low energy, or BLE proximity locators use a low energy Bluetooth signal received by an internet connected device to locate a transmitter.
Radio frequency (RF)
Radio frequency or RF transmitters use radio waves to determine an individual's location. The range of this technology is larger than that of Bluetooth, allowing for locating up to 5 km. Radio frequency tracking can also be used to locate individuals indoors.
Locator devices and technologies
Locator devices have been categorized based on the tracking technology they use. The below links will bring you to the list of devices using the technology you select.
GPS devices
| Device name | LivingWell Companion Go (Telus) |
Tracki | GL300 GPS Tracker (Americaloc) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Device type | Device & subscription fee | Device & subscription fee | Device & subscription fee |
| Digital platform | Company call centre | IOS, Android, Web | Web |
| Price and subscription fee |
$60 monthly (Canadian dollars) |
$77.83 + $25.93 monthly (United States dollars) |
$109.9 + $25 monthly (United States dollars) |
| Shape and size |
Necklace/lanyard & belt (1.9cm x 4.7cm x 7.5cm) |
Block (1.4cm x 3.8cm x 4.4 cm) |
Block (2.3cm x 3.8cm x 6.9cm) |
| Two-way communication |
Yes (2-way voice) |
Yes (SOS button) | No |
| Tracking technology | GPS* | GPS* | GPS* |
| Region (s) | Canada | Worldwide | United States, Canada, Mexico |
| Battery life | 36 hours | 2-3 days | 14 days |
| Description from manufacturer |
"24/7 access to live emergency operators, Automatic fall detection, Emergency help button, Free shipping, Water-resistant device, Belt clip and lanyard" |
"With a worldwide coverage of 190 countries, you can track anything that moves, know where your assets are, and get peace of mind knowing you can recover them if they got stolen." |
"This is a compact and small device. You can use it for almost every tracking purpose: vehicles, assets, family, employees, etc. It is easy to carry in vehicles, pockets, backpacks, cases and boxes. |
| Device name | Theora Connect Tracker Watch (SafeTracks GPS Canada) |
GL300 Real Time GPS Tracker (SpyTec GPS) |
Spot Trace |
|---|---|---|---|
| Device type | Device & subscription fee | Device & subscription fee | Device & subscription fee |
| Digital platform | Web | IOS, Android, Web | IOS, Android |
| Price and subscription fee |
$350 + $49.95 monthly (Canadian dollars) |
$69.95 + $24.95 monthly (United States dollars) |
$174.93 + $9.95 monthly (Canadian dollars) |
| Shape and size | Wristwatch |
Block (2.9cm x 4.2cm x 8.0cm) |
Block (2.2cm x 5.2cm x 6.8cm) |
| Two-way communication | Yes (SOS button) | No | No |
| Tracking technology | GPS* | GPS* | GPS (Note: This device does not require cellular service to be accurate) |
| Region (s) | Canada | Worldwide | Worldwide |
| Battery life | 12-24 hours | 6-25 days (standby) | 4-8 days |
| Description from manufacturer | You will have the ability to set up Geo-Fencing allowing your loved one’s safe limited boundaries to continue to navigate freely in the designated areas of their home or neighborhood. To further keep you updated, a text message alerts you if patients step outside the perimeter. You have the ability to quickly determine their location status on the TrackNow™ monitoring application, which provides an accurate birds eye view of the area. Combined with breadcrumb tracking, you are able to see the route they took to get there. As an added layer of support, through two-way hands free voice technology and an integrated one-touch SOS button you are instantly connected if your loved one becomes lost, agitated and frustrated." | "A battery-powered, compact, real-time GPS tracker designed to track, monitor, and optimize your valuable assets. This tracker works with our easy-to-use mobile and desktop apps and requires a commitment-free subscription*. Popular for tracking vehicles, fleets, and valuables, the GL300 is our most versatile GPS tracker." |
"SPOT Trace offers advanced tracking for your most valued assets. Instantly receive a text or email when movement is detected and follow on SPOT Mapping on your phone or computer." |
| Device name | LifeAssure Premium Mobile Plus | GeoZilla Nano GPS Tracker | Optimus 2.0 Portable GPS Tracker |
|---|---|---|---|
| Device type | Device & subscription fee | Device & subscription fee | Device & subscription fee |
| Digital platform | Web | IOS, Android | IOS, Android |
| Price and subscription fee |
$49.95 monthly (Canadian dollars) |
$249 + $19.99 monthly (United States dollars) |
$59.95 + $19.95 monthly (United States dollars) |
| Shape and size |
Necklace/lanyard (dimensions not listed) |
Wrist-worn |
Block (2.5cm x 3.8cm x 7.6 cm) |
| Two-way communication |
Yes (SOS button) |
Yes (SOS button) | No |
| Tracking technology | GPS* | GPS* | GPS* |
| Region (s) | Unclear | Worldwide | United States, Canada |
| Battery life | Unclear | 120 hours (standby) | 24 days (standby) |
| Description from manufacturer | "The Life Assure Premium Mobile Plus is an all-encompassing medical alert device. Featuring instant two-way hands free voice communication directly through the pendant, automatic fall detection capability, and GPS network location services to determine your location, this device allows you to leave the home and still remain protected virtually anywhere at any time. At home, on vacation, or out shopping for the day, the Premium Mobile unit assures that you’re always covered and allows you to keep the independence you deserve." | "MiniFinder Nano represents the new generation of personal GPS security alarms that help the wearer feel safe in all situations. The product offers impressive functionality in a very small format. MiniFinder® Nano is a revolutionary innovation in personal safety and GPS tracking, which is ideal for elderly people, people with cognitive disabilities, children or for people who work in vulnerable environments." | "Its small size (3in x 1.5in x 1in) makes the GPS Tracker very portable. An internal motion sensor will help maximize battery charge when not in use by entering standby mode. Follow the units track minute by minute (upgradable) on the user-friendly tracking website with Google Maps. Receive alerts to pre-defined SMS numbers and email addresses when the central button on the tracker has been pressed. Get alerts from the GPS Tracker for speeding, entering, or leaving predefined areas or when the tracker's battery charge is low. Works great for tracking: Cars, trucks, elderly, children, and assets." |
| Device name | Lifeline GoSafe | PocketFinder LTE-M1 Smart Tracker | iTraq Nano |
|---|---|---|---|
| Device type | Device & subscription fee | Device & subscription fee | Device & subscription fee |
| Digital platform | Company call center | IOS, Android | IOS, Android |
| Price and subscription fee | Pricing available upon request |
$159 + $12.95 monthly (United States dollars) |
$129 + $7.99 monthly (United States dollars) |
| Shape and size |
Necklace/lanyard (dimensions not listed) |
Keychain (dimensions not listed) |
Keychain (0.8cm x 5.5cm x 5.5cm) |
| Two-way communication |
Yes (SOS button) |
Yes (SOS button) |
Yes (SOS button) |
| Tracking technology | GPS*, Wifi | GPS*, Wifi, GLONASS | GPS*, Wifi, Cellular, Bluetooth, GLONASS |
| Region (s) | Canada | United States, Canada | Worldwide |
| Battery life | 2-3 days | Unclear | 1 day-1 month |
| Description from manufacturer | "GoSafe 2 is the newest addition to the Philips Lifeline mobile alert service family. This single piece system includes multiple, advanced locating technologies, fall detection capabilities and two-way voice communication all in a light, comfortable, easy-to-wear pendant. GoSafe 2 provides fast access to help whenever and wherever you need it" | "PocketFinder Smart Tracker Wearable Personal GPS / Wi-Fi / Cell ID tracker is our 3rd generation Personal Locator and utilizes all three location technologies to provide an ideal way for families and caregivers to keep track of the people they love when they are not with them. Ideal for children heading to or from school, after school activities on their own or via public transportation and seniors who value their independence, the PocketFinder Smart Tracker can help you know where they are and be alerted if they go too far - right from your smartphone or computer! Breathe easier knowing those you love are safe!" | "The iTraq Nano is a location device that works anywhere in the world, because it crosses GPS, cellular, and WiFi. It functions both outdoors and inside buildings, offering precise location information based on your pre-determined reporting schedule. With iTraq Nano, you'll have peace of mind your loved ones and valuables are safe & secure." |
| Device name | AngelSense | Samsung SmartThings Tracker (Bell) | Caretrak |
|---|---|---|---|
| Device type | Device & subscription fee | Device & subscription fee | Device & subscription fee |
| Digital platform | IOS, Android, Web | IOS, Android | Company call center |
| Price and subscription fee |
$300 + $69.99 monthly (Canadian dollars) |
$99.99 + $5 monthly (Canadian dollars) |
$49 + $44 monthly (Canadian dollars) |
| Shape and size |
Block (2.0cm x 4.7cm x 7.7cm) |
Keychain (1.3cm x 4.3cm x 4.3cm) |
Necklace/lanyard (dimensions not listed) |
| Two-way communication |
Yes (2-way voice) |
No |
Yes (2-way voice) |
| Tracking technology | GPS* | GPS* | GPS*, Wifi |
| Region (s) | Worldwide | Canada | Unclear |
| Battery life | 1 day | Unclear | 48 hours |
| Description from manufacturer |
"AngelSense is specifically designed for special needs and with advanced GPS tracking technology, unique safety features, and well-being monitors to keep your loved one safe. We provide maximum protection for real-life emergencies! AngelSense is a lifesaving device that helps protect your loved ones with Alzheimer’s and dementia who may not have the ability to remember where they live, what their name is, or who to call for help. AngelSense helps you find them ASAP, can prevent elderly abuse, and ensures they get to and from activities safely." |
"The Samsung SmartThings Tracker, powered by Canada’s best national network, offers on-demand location positioning of your valuables, pets and in some cases even your children. Different from Bluetooth devices, it uses an LTE-M network connection.You’ll enjoy real-time, on-demand location tracking from any range, and impressive positioning accuracy and reliability. You can also receive location reports, so you can check up on your pet while they’re out for their daily walk or make sure your kids get to school on time by simply attaching a tracker to their backpack." | "Caretrak enables independence with a direct connection to your care contact or the 24/7 emergency response centre where and when it's needed. With one push of the SOS button, you speak directly to your care contact, your real-time location is automatically reported via GPS and text/email alerts are sent to all of your contacts (optional). Fall detection is also available." |
| Device name | Galaxy Medical Alert System | GPS SmartSole (Red Dot Alerts) |
|---|---|---|
| Device type | Device & subscription fee | Device & subscription fee |
| Digital platform | Mobile application (unclear if IOS or Android) | IOS, Android |
| Price and subscription fee | $59.95 monthly (Canadian dollars) | $499.99 + $39.99 Monthly (Canadian dollars) |
| Shape and size | Necklace/lanyard (1.8cm x 4.7cm x 7.3cm) |
In-shoe Insole |
| Two-way communication | Yes (2-way voice) | No |
| Tracking technology | GPS* and Wifi | GPS* |
| Region (s) | Canada, United States | Canada, United States, Mexico |
| Battery life | 96 hours | 18-96 hours |
| Description from manufacturer | "Easy to use and install. Attractive, lightweight help button that can be worn on a lanyard or belt. ONE button activation and/or automatic fall detection. Instant hands-free communication. Ideal for individuals that spend the majority of their time on the go. 4G LTE cellular technology. Automated fall detection - designed to detect a fall as soon as it happens. After just 10 seconds, if there is no movement or tilt from horizontal to vertical positioning detected, an unconsciousness alarm will be sent for medical help. Automatic GPS location or Wi-Fi location. 24/7 medical monitoring services from virtually anywhere" | "- Embedded GPS tracking in trimmable shoe insoles - Works wherever there is cell coverage - Smartphone app works with Apple and Android devices - Customizable geofencing zone for safer mobility - Caregivers get email or text alerts when a loved one leaves a specified zone - End-to-end, managed cloud-based monitoring services - Water resistant - Built-in rechargeable battery - Works anywhere in Canada and the U.S." |
| Device name | 4G Senior GPS Tracker Watch (Lil Tracker) | 4G GPS Tracker Pendant (Lil Tracker) |
|---|---|---|
| Device type | Device & subscription fee | Device & subscription fee |
| Digital platform | IOS, Android | IOS, Android |
| Price and subscription fee |
$186.99 + $9.92-20.66 monthly (Canadian Dollars) |
$186.99 + $9.92-20.66 monthly (Canadian Dollars) |
| Shape and size |
Wrist watch |
Necklace/lanyard (4cm x 4cm x 1.5cm) |
| Two-way communication |
Yes (2-way voice) |
Yes (2-way voice) |
| Tracking technology | GPS*, Wifi, Cellular | GPS*, Wifi, Cellular |
| Region (s) | Worldwide | Worldwide |
| Battery life | 24-48 hours | 24-48 hours |
| Description from manufacturer |
|
|
Bluetooth low energy (BLE) devices
| Device name | Apple AirTag | Tile Pro | Chipolo ONE |
|---|---|---|---|
| Device type | Device only | Device only | Device only |
| Digital platform | IOS | IOS, Android | IOS, Android |
| Price and subscription fee |
$39 (Canadian dollars) |
$34.99 (Canadian dollars) |
$25 (United States dollars) |
| Shape and size |
Keychain sized (0.8cm x 2.3 cm x 3.2cm) |
Keychain (0.8cm x 3.2cm x 5.8cm) |
Keychain (0.6cm x 3.8cm x 3.8cm) |
| Two-way communication | No | No | No |
| Tracking technology | Bluetooth | Bluetooth | Bluetooth |
| Region (s) | Worldwide | Worldwide | Worldwide |
| Battery life | ~ 1 year | ~ 1 year | Up to 2 years |
| Description from manufacturer | "AirTag is an easy way to keep track of your stuff. Attach one to your keys, slip another one in your backpack. And just like that, they’re on your radar in the Find My app. AirTag has your back." |
"Pro has a new streamlined shape that hangs better on keys, backpacks or purses. Use our free app to find them. Keep track of more for less with our multi-packs or give them to your friends and family as a gift.
|
"Perfect for finding your keys, bag, backpack in seconds. Use the Chipolo app to ring your misplaced item or double click on Chipolo to find your phone. Get a notification from the app if you leave your item behind." |
Smartphone applications
| Device name | Find My Friends (Apple) |
Life360 |
|---|---|---|
| Device type | Smartphone application | Smartphone application |
| Digital platform | IOS, Web | IOS, Android |
| Price and subscription fee | Free |
$5.49 monthly (Canadian dollars) |
| Shape and size | Smartphone | Smartphone |
| Two-way communication | No | No |
| Tracking technology | GPS | GPS |
| Region (s) | Worldwide | Worldwide |
| Battery life | Not applicable | Not applicable |
| Description from manufacturer | "Find My Friends allows you to easily locate friends and family using your iPhone, iPad or iPod touch. Just install the app and share your location with your friends by choosing from your contacts, entering their email addresses or phone numbers, or using AirDrop." | "Protect and connect the people who matter most with comprehensive safety features for life at home, on the web, and on the go — all in one place for added value and convenience. Enjoy modern, advanced tools that go beyond a basic GPS phone tracker. Bring your family closer with comprehensive safety features designed for busy, modern life — all in one place for added value and convenience. Go beyond basic GPS phone tracking with smart tools and anytime, anywhere emergency support." |
Radio frequency devices
| Device name | Project Lifesaver |
|---|---|
| Device type | Not applicable |
| Digital platform | Tracking by service provider |
| Price and subscription fee | Varies by service provider |
| Shape and size | Wrist-worn |
| Two-way communication | No |
| Tracking technology | Radio frequency |
| Region (s) |
Canada (Only in certain locations) |
| Battery life | ~ 1 year |
| Description from manufacturer | "Project Lifesaver program combines radio technology with a coordinated police response to locate wandering and disoriented loved ones due to Alzheimer's, autism or other conditions or disorders." |
Disclaimer
This resource compiled by the Aging & Innovation Research Program is for information only. The information is provided by the Aging & Innovation Research Program and while we aim to keep the information up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability, or availability with respect to the website or the information, products or services contained on the website for any purpose. The Aging & Innovation Research Program does not endorse nor recommend any of the manufacturers/products mentioned in this resource. It is important to remember that no one product or strategy can guarantee the safety of a person with dementia.
* = Cellular reliant or based GPS tracking device. These devices are highly accurate when they are under the coverage of a cellular network but will not work if they are not in a coverage area.