Walk with peace of mind: Tips & technology to help seniors travel safely

How to travel safely as a senior

Traveling as a senior can be a wonderful and empowering experience. You have a chance to see the world, visit loved ones, or simply enjoy an adventure.

But for older adults who worry about getting lost, disoriented in new places, or even getting injured in an unfamiliar setting, the fear of wandering or losing direction can be very real and even scary.

As I was pondering over this dilemma, I came across SmartSole GPS insoles. It is discreet, AI-powered wearable technology designed to keep seniors safe and help families stay connected. In this article, I’ll be sharing a little bit more about these insoles as well as a few other easy ways to keep yourself safe when traveling.

Safety considerations for solo travelers and seniors

I’m currently planning a solo trip to New York City for a work event. As excited as I am, I’ve been thinking a lot about how easy it would be to get turned around in such a busy, unfamiliar place. I asked myself: If I got lost, who would know? How would someone find me? These thoughts led me to explore tools that could quietly support independence while also giving me peace of mind.

Tools & technology for traveling safely as a senior

Whether you’re planning a big, cross-country vacation or you just want peace of mind that your loved ones know where you are when you’re out and about doing errands in your home town, there are many options to help you feel safe.

With so many new tools and technologies coming out all the time, here are just a few of the ones I’ve discovered:

Tools for traveling safely as a senior or a solo traveler:

• Location-sharing on your smartphone
  Whether you have an Apple phone or an Android, you can opt to share your location with someone you trust. They’ll be able to see where you are on a map
• Location-sharing when using a rideshare service
  Many rideshare apps have built-in safety options now, that allow you to share your location with someone you trust. Explore your app to see what other safety features they offer.
• GPS SmartSoles
  For an extra level of peace of mind for seniors with memory loss and tendencies toward wandering or disorientation, these discreet insoles allow loved ones to keep tabs on your safety
• Herewith: Help with Errands & Outings
  For local outings, older adults can find experienced, background-checked support on Herewith. Unlike rideshares, you can choose who to book and your Helper will go with you, stay without and assist you throughout your outing, and help you return home safely.

Affordable transportation service for seniors on Herewith can easily coordinate with your schedule and preferences, giving you the assistance you need to confidently go out in the world.

Exploring technology for seniors: What Are GPS SmartSoles?

SmartSoles are GPS-enabled insoles that fit right into a pair of shoes just like a regular insole. But hidden inside is powerful tracking technology that allows loved ones or caregivers to monitor the wearer’s location in real-time through a smartphone app or web dashboard. This means if a senior traveler wanders off, gets lost, or becomes disoriented, help is only a few taps away.

These smart insoles are ideal for:

• Seniors who travel alone or in new places
• Older adults living with Alzheimer’s, dementia, or mild cognitive impairment
• People who enjoy walking or hiking during travel
• Families who want peace of mind without intruding on independence

Some of the key features of GPS SmartSoles are:

• Real-Time GPS Tracking that allows your loved one to check where you are at any time, right from their phone or computer
• Geofencing Alerts that indicated “safe zones” like hotels, cruise ships, or tour areas. You can set it up so that your loved one gets alerts if you leave the designated area
• Global coverage (please check before travel)
• Depending on usage, SmartSole can last up to 5–7 days on a single charge

Tips for traveling safely as a senior or solo traveler

• Research location-sharing and alert tools tailored for your situation, needs, and preferences
• When making your travel plans, make a list of resources in the area and save them on your phone’s map for easy reference
• Make a list of people you trust who can be notified in case of emergency
• Consider if it’s beneficial to join a travel group for long distance travel or book a Helper for errands and outings around your town or city

Aging should never mean giving up on seeing the world. However, it’s beneficial to take precautions. SmartSole GPS insoles are a perfect example of how wearable AI technology can enhance independence while keeping seniors safe, while location-sharing services and companionship on errands & outings can give you peace of mind without breaking the bank.