More seniors are strapping on a smartwatch or fitness tracker these days. These small, wearable devices offer a simple way to check in on steps, heart rate, sleep and more, all from the wrist.

36% of adults age 50 and older now own a wearable device, a number that continues to climb each year.

"I see Apple Watches or Fitbits being used by residents quite a bit," says Karen B., national director of life enrichment with The Goodman Group.

Among communities managed by The Goodman Group, these devices have become a familiar part of daily life for many residents who want a closer look at their own health.

What Seniors Are Tracking

"Mostly I see it being used to track steps and heart rate," Karen shares. "Some use it for the fall detection piece for a sense of comfort."

Knowing help can be reached quickly gives both residents and their families a little more peace of mind, without changing how independently a resident goes about their day.

Karen has also noticed a pattern among residents who track their steps closely. "Most people who like to track their steps seem to be interested in maintaining weight," she says.

That focus on movement and weight management lines up with a broader trend. Wearable devices hold real promise for supporting healthy habits among older adults, particularly around physical activity.

A Natural Fit With Fitness and Wellness

Wearable tech does not exist on its own. It works best alongside the fitness and wellness programming already woven into daily life at communities managed by The Goodman Group, including FIT Functional Fitness® classes and other movement-based activities.

"I think it reinforces that fitness is valuable to maintain independence," Karen says. Seeing steps add up on a screen can be its own kind of encouragement, especially for residents who are already working toward personal wellness goals.

Getting Started With a Loved One

With so many wearable devices on the market, it helps to have a place to start.

Karen's advice is to begin with the end goal in mind. "Looking at what data you want to get out of it" is the best first step, she explains. "There are so many options out there that have so many bells and whistles that might be overwhelming. Sometimes simple is best."

A basic device that tracks steps and heart rate may be a better fit than one packed with features a loved one will never use.

Once a senior feels comfortable with the basics, there is always room to explore more advanced options down the road, and team members are happy to be a resource along the way.

Looking Ahead

Wearable technology is still evolving, and interest among seniors continues to grow alongside it. Whether the goal is tracking daily movement, keeping an eye on heart rate or simply having an added layer of comfort throughout the day, these devices offer seniors a simple way to stay engaged with their own health.