For years, medical alert necklace for seniors has been the go-to solution for seniors seeking a reliable way to call for help. Worn around the neck, they’re designed to provide emergency assistance at the press of a button. But as wearable technology continues to evolve, smartwatches are entering the same space—offering not only emergency functions, but also health monitoring, location sharing, and greater day-to-day utility. This shift raises an important question: which option truly serves seniors better in today’s world?
Medical alert necklaces still have their place. For individuals who are not comfortable with screens or newer devices, they offer a simple, focused tool. Press the button, and help is on the way. However, many seniors find them stigmatizing. The look of the pendant often signals vulnerability, making some users reluctant to wear it outside the home. Even more importantly, these devices are often removed at night or forgotten altogether, defeating their purpose at critical times.
Smartwatches, by contrast, are seen as more socially acceptable—especially among today’s active seniors who don’t want to feel defined by their age. They’re less conspicuous and more likely to be worn consistently. And for those who live alone, smartwatches provide something extra: fall detection, real-time GPS tracking, and health data that can be shared with loved ones or healthcare providers.
BeWell’s Alert Watch represents how the best of both worlds can be merged. Like a traditional pendant, it offers an instant SOS button and emergency responsiveness. But unlike many pendant-based systems, it’s designed to be worn like any modern smartwatch, without calling unwanted attention to the user. Its interface is simplified for older adults, and perhaps most notably, it requires no monthly subscription. That makes it not only discreet but sustainable—a long-term solution that doesn’t add to a senior’s financial burden.
The decision ultimately depends on the individual: their comfort with technology, their health needs, and their lifestyle. But in 2025, the trend is clear. More seniors are choosing smartwatches because they feel more natural, less medical, and more empowering. And in this space, solutions like BeWell are leading the way by putting dignity, simplicity, and safety at the center of their design.