Top Heart Rate Monitor Watches for Seniors: Accurate and Easy!

Certified Senior Advisor®
Senior Home Safety Specialist®
20 years of medical equipment experience
Compassionately helping seniors and their caregivers solve challenges of aging
Updated:

Monitoring your heart rate is a good idea for anyone of any age but it is extremely important for seniors. Our senior tech expert gives us his top recommended heart rate monitor watches for older adults.

Best Heart Rate Monitor Watch
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Our Expert’s Top Picks!

ProductWhy I Recommend It
Smart Watch Fitness Tracker with Heart Rate Blood Oxygen Blood Pressure Sleep Monitor 100 Sports Modes Step Calorie Counter Activity Health Trackers IP68 Waterproof for Android Phones iPhone Women Men

Mindrose Smart Watch Fitness Tracker

$42.99
as of 09/22/2023 9:46 am
• Easy-to-read 1.47″ HD-color touch screen
• Comprehensive health metric monitoring
• Long battery life (7-10 days)
• IPX8 water resistance
• Requires smartphone for full functionality
(Read More)
Withings ScanWatch, 42mm, Black - Hybrid Smartwatch with ECG, Heart Rate Sensor and Blood Oxygen Oximeter (SPO2)

Withings Scanwatch Horizon

from $239.95
• Accurate heart rate monitoring and ECG
• Stylish, easy-to-read display
• Impressive 30-day battery life
• Water-resistant up to 50 meters
• Limited smartwatch features
(Read More)
Fitbit Versa 2 Health and Fitness Smartwatch with Heart Rate, Music, Alexa Built-In, Sleep and Swim Tracking, Black/Carbon, One Size (S and L Bands Included)

Fitbit Versa 2 Health and Fitness Smartwatch

from $129.95
• Built-in Amazon Alexa voice assistance
• Sleep tracking and insights
• Comfortable design, extended 6-day battery life
• Compatible with other devices
• Frequent charging required though
(Read More)

Heart rate monitor watches for seniors differ from regular fitness trackers as they tend to offer larger displays, simpler interfaces, and more accurate heart rate sensors that are crucial for older adults who may have heart-related conditions.

Some even come with features such as fall detection, emergency alerts, or even medication reminders, which can be lifesavers for seniors living alone or with limited mobility.

When choosing the right heart rate monitor watch for seniors, compare factors such as comfort, accuracy, battery life, and ease of use.

Not all watches are created equal; some may be more appropriate for a particular individual’s needs and preferences. Take into account any specific health conditions, as certain watches may offer additional features that can be beneficial.

After conducting thorough research and analysis, I have used my 7 years of experience reviewing tech products for older adults to identify the top heart rate monitor watches tailored for seniors and the elderly.

My recommendations meet or exceed these criteria and offer additional valuable features!

Comparison Table: Choosing the Best Heart Rate Monitor Watches for Seniors

ProductAccuracy and ReliabilityEase of UseComfort and FitBattery LifeDisplay and ReadabilityAverage Rating
Mindrose Smart Watch Fitness Tracker998998.8
Fitbit Versa 2 Health and Fitness Smartwatch989898.6
Withings Scanwatch Horizon9891088.8
FITVII Fitness Tracker888988.2
DoSmarter Fitness Tracker for Seniors889978.2
Fitpolo Fitness Tracker with Heart Rate Monitor877877.4

Heartfelt Transformation: Marisol’s Journey to Enhanced Health with a Heart Rate Monitor Watch

Marisol, an active 68-year-old, was facing challenges in maintaining her healthy lifestyle. As a senior, she knew the importance of staying active, but she struggled with monitoring her heart rate during workouts.

Her old fitness tracker was difficult to read and often provided inconsistent readings, causing frustration and impacting her motivation to exercise.

She found herself hesitant to push herself during workouts, fearing that she might overexert and compromise her health. This uncertainty began to take a toll on Marisol’s overall well-being and quality of life.

Determined to regain control of her health, Marisol began researching heart rate monitor watches suitable for seniors.

After consulting with her doctor and comparing various options, she decided on a watch with a large, easy-to-read display, accurate heart rate monitoring, and additional health tracking features.

Marisol eagerly integrated her new heart rate monitor watch into her daily routine, using it during her exercise sessions and throughout the day to monitor her heart rate, sleep, and stress levels.

Thanks to her new heart rate monitor watch, Marisol experienced a profound improvement in her overall well-being. She was able to exercise with confidence, knowing that she could stay within her target heart rate zone and minimize the risk of overexertion.

Marisol found herself more motivated, pushing herself to achieve new fitness milestones and enjoying her workouts more than ever before.

The added features of sleep and stress tracking allowed her to make positive changes in her daily life, further contributing to her improved health.

With the support of her heart rate monitor watch, Marisol reclaimed her sense of control and enjoyed a revitalized, fulfilling life as an active senior.

Heart Rate Monitor Watch Reviews

As we age, it becomes increasingly important to monitor our heart health. These devices are designed to provide accurate, reliable heart rate data, and are easy to use by individuals of any age. 

In the following sections, we will discuss the benefits of using a heart rate monitor watch and show you how to evaluate the specific features of each device on our list. 

Smart Watch Fitness Tracker with Heart Rate Blood Oxygen Blood Pressure Sleep Monitor 100 Sports Modes Step Calorie Counter Activity Health Trackers IP68 Waterproof for Android Phones iPhone Women Men

Mindrose Smart Watch Fitness Tracker

$42.99
as of 09/22/2023 9:46 am

This Mindrose Smart Watch Fitness Tracker is an excellent choice for seniors who want user-friendly and reliable health monitoring on their wrists.

Pros:

  • Easy to read 1.47″ HD-color full touch screen
  • Long battery life and IPX8 water resistance
  • Comprehensive health metric monitoring (heart rate, blood pressure, blood oxygen, and sleep tracking)

Cons:

  • May have too many sport mode options for some seniors
  • Does require a smartphone for full functionality
  • Customizable watch face option may not be essential for everyone

The Mindrose Smart Watch Fitness Tracker has a high-quality build, performance, and feel.

The 1.47″ HD-color full touch screen makes it incredibly easy for seniors and elderly adults to read and navigate the various features. Having a clear and responsive screen can greatly improve their experience.

The long battery life of this smartwatch was also a top criterion for us. With up to 30 days of standby time and 7 to 10 days of heavy or daily use, we didn’t have to worry about constantly recharging it.

Plus, the IPX8 waterproof rating gave us peace of mind when washing our hands or going for a swim. This is important as seniors need a reliable watch that can withstand daily wear without any issues.

Health metric monitoring was another highlight for us. With 24/7 heart rate, blood pressure, blood oxygen, and sleep tracking, we could conveniently keep track of essential health data right on our wrist.

This made managing our overall well-being much easier and allowed us to stay proactive about our health.

However, we want to point out that the 100 sports modes might be overwhelming for some seniors. Most may only need basic activity tracking, so this abundance of options may not be necessary for all.

Additionally, to take full advantage of the smart watch’s features, it does require a compatible smartphone for syncing and customization.

The Mindrose Smart Watch Fitness Tracker is an excellent investment for seniors seeking a user-friendly and reliable health monitoring device.

Its clear touch screen, long battery life, and comprehensive health metrics cover all the necessary bases. Only a few minor drawbacks should be considered before making the final decision.


Fitbit Versa 2 Health and Fitness Smartwatch with Heart Rate, Music, Alexa Built-In, Sleep and Swim Tracking, Black/Carbon, One Size (S and L Bands Included)

Fitbit Versa 2 Health and Fitness Smartwatch

from $129.95

The Fitbit Versa 2 is a top choice for seniors looking for a reliable and versatile heart rate monitor watch to improve their overall health and wellness.

Pros:

  • Alexa Built-In for voice assistance
  • Sleep tracking and insights
  • Extended 6-day battery life

Cons:

  • Need for more frequent charging with always-on display
  • Limited music streaming options
  • May require smartphone for full functionality

We appreciate the Fitbit Versa 2’s user-friendly features, which are particularly helpful for seniors. The built-in Amazon Alexa allows you to set reminders, check the weather, and control smart home devices using just our voice, making it very convenient for daily use.

Sleep tracking is another standout feature of the Versa 2. The watch also doubles as a sleep tracker for seniors, provides personal insights into your sleep patterns, and scores your sleep quality each night. This helps older adults understand their rest better and adjust to improve their sleep health.

One notable downside to the Versa 2 is that the always-on display can lead to more frequent charging. While the 6-day battery life is generally impressive, be prepared to charge the watch more often if you plan to use the always-on display feature.

Additionally, the music streaming options are limited as it requires a Spotify subscription which isn’t common among older adults.

It is important to note that some features of the Fitbit Versa 2, like receiving call and text notifications, will require a compatible smartphone nearby.

However, heart rate tracking, step counting, and sleep monitoring work independently and provide accurate and valuable insights into your daily activities and health.

The Fitbit Versa 2 is an excellent option for seniors who want a heart rate monitor watch that is easy to use, comfortable, and reliable. With its compatibility to other devices and extended battery life, it can be a helpful companion in achieving a healthier lifestyle.


Withings ScanWatch, 42mm, Black - Hybrid Smartwatch with ECG, Heart Rate Sensor and Blood Oxygen Oximeter (SPO2)

Withings Scanwatch Horizon

from $239.95

The Withings Scanwatch Horizon is an excellent hybrid smartwatch for seniors seeking reliable heart rate monitoring and user-friendly features.

Pros:

  • Accurate heart rate monitoring and ECG
  • Easy-to-read display and classic design
  • Long battery life of up to 30 days

Cons:

  • Limited smartwatch features compared to other models
  • May require assistance with setup and band adjustments
  • Lack of built-in GPS; requires connection to smartphone for GPS tracking

After trying the Withings Scanwatch Horizon, we found it to be a well-built hybrid smartwatch that combines style and functionality.

The stainless steel design and elegant face make it perfect for seniors who prefer a more traditional watch appearance without sacrificing essential smartwatch features.

One of the standout features is the heart rate monitoring and ECG, which provide valuable insights into overall heart health. The watch is easy to use, and the intuitive interface enables seniors to monitor their vital parameters within 30 seconds.

The sleep tracking feature helps understand sleep patterns, making necessary adjustments to improve overall sleep quality.

The long battery life is a significant advantage, lasting up to 30 days on a single charge. This means less frequent charging, which is a plus for seniors who might struggle with charging smaller devices.

However, the setup process and band adjustments may require some assistance, especially for those who are not tech-savvy.

While the Scanwatch Horizon has no built-in GPS, it can be connected to a smartphone for GPS tracking during workouts. This makes it suitable for seniors participating in various activities such as walking, jogging, or swimming, as the watch is water-resistant up to 50 meters.

The Withings Scanwatch Horizon meets the needs of seniors looking for an accurate and reliable heart rate monitor watch with a stylish design and fantastic battery life.

Overall, it is a practical choice for seniors prioritizing health monitoring and ease of use over more extensive smartwatch features.


Fitness Tracker with Heart Rate Monitor, Fitpolo Smart Watch 1.3 inches Color Touch Screen IP68 Waterproof Step Calorie Counter Sleep Monitoring Pedometer Watches Activity Tracker for Women Men Kids

Fitpolo Fitness Tracker with Heart Rate Monitor

$31.99
as of 09/22/2023 9:46 am

Consider the Fitpolo Fitness Tracker for an affordable but feature-packed heart rate monitor watch for seniors.

Pros:

  • Great value for the money
  • 24/7 heart rate and sleep tracking
  • IP68 waterproof for swimming and everyday use

Cons:

  • Small touch screen can be challenging for some users
  • Band may cause irritation to sensitive skin
  • The display may turn off too quickly for some users

We found the Fitpolo Fitness Tracker to be a reliable and functional heart rate monitor watch suitable for seniors. It accurately tracks heart rate, sleep, and daily steps, helping older adults stay active and healthy.

The IP68 waterproof rating is an added bonus, allowing the wearer to swim or engage in other water-based activities without worrying about damaging the watch.

Its compatibility with both iOS and Android devices simplifies synchronization with smartphones and notifications from social media, calls, and text messages.

However, we noticed a few downsides while using the Fitpolo. The touch screen is on the smaller side, which can be challenging for seniors with less-than-perfect vision or less dexterous fingers. 

The watch band may also cause irritation for those with sensitive skin, potentially limiting comfort during extended wear. Lastly, the display may turn off too quickly for some users, making reading the time and other information difficult.

The Fitpolo Fitness Tracker offers seniors an affordable option for monitoring their heart rate, sleep, and daily activity levels. 

Despite a few shortcomings, it remains a solid choice for older adults looking for a simple, waterproof heart rate monitor watch.


DoSmarter Fitness Tracker with Heart Rate Blood Oxygen Monitor, Activity Tracker with Sleep Tracking Calories Step Counter, Health and Fitness Watch for Women Men

DoSmarter Fitness Tracker for Seniors

The DoSmarter Fitness Tracker is a reliable and affordable option for seniors seeking to monitor their heart rate and overall health.

Pros:

  • Comprehensive health monitoring
  • Wide range of workout modes
  • Sleep monitoring with smart wake feature

Cons:

  • Potential inaccuracies in step counting
  • No swim workout setting
  • Limited sizing options for wristbands

We were impressed with how the DoSmarter Fitness Tracker catered to seniors’ unique health concerns.

The watch is designed to monitor heart rate, blood oxygen levels, sleep quality, and more, giving seniors valuable insights into their overall well-being and allowing them to make informed decisions about their lifestyle.

We particularly appreciated the range of workout modes available – over 20 in total – that made it easy for us to find activities suited to our fitness levels. The ability to set goals and track progress motivated us to stay active and achieve our health targets. 

One thing worth mentioning is that the step counter might not always be as accurate as we would hope, but tracking trends and relative progress is still helpful.

Sleep monitoring is another feature of this fitness tracker that we found especially beneficial. It provides detailed tracking of light and deep sleep, which helps us optimize our sleep patterns and improve our overall well-being.

Waking up to a gentle vibration from the watch also made mornings more pleasant.

Our analysis and comparison did reveal a few downsides, however. Although the watch is water-resistant, we noticed there was no swim workout setting, which could be a limitation for seniors who enjoy swimming as part of their fitness routine. 

Additionally, the wristband sizing might not accommodate all size preferences, so check if it fits well before purchasing.


FITVII Fitness Tracker, Smart Watch with 24/7 Blood Pressure Heart Rate and Blood Oxygen Monitor, Sleep Tracker with Calorie Step Counter, IP68 Waterproof Activity Tracker for Women Men Android iOS

FITVII Fitness Tracker

$44.99
as of 09/22/2023 9:46 am

The FITVII Fitness Tracker is an excellent choice for seniors looking to keep track of their health with ease and style.

Pros:

  • Accurate 24/7 heart rate, blood pressure, and blood oxygen monitoring
  • Advanced sleep tracking features
  • Multiple sports modes and IP68 waterproof rating

Cons:

  • Some users experienced band irritation when worn for extended periods
  • Blood pressure readings may slightly vary from actual measurements
  • Compatibility limited to Android 5 / iOS 9.0 or above smartphones

The FITVII Fitness Tracker offers a sleek, modern design that is comfortable to wear throughout the day, whether you’re exercising or just going about daily activities.

The 1.7-inch color display is bright and easy to read, making it simple for seniors to navigate the various functions.

We appreciate the reliability of this heart rate monitor, as it provides consistent readings during workouts as well as throughout the day.

The tracker’s sleep monitoring features are also quite impressive, offering insights into your sleep stages and blood oxygen levels, which can help identify potential health concerns.

The wide variety of available sports modes encourages seniors to stay active, while the IP68 waterproof rating ensures that the device remains protected during water-based activities.

Notifications from your smartphone are also displayed on the wrist, ensuring you never miss an important message or call.

However, a few users reported experiencing skin irritation from the band if worn for extended periods. Though not a widespread issue, it’s worth noting and considering a replacement band if this occurs. 

Additionally, the blood pressure readings might be slightly off from actual measurements – about 5% – so it should not be relied upon for medical use but can provide a general idea of your blood pressure trends.

The FITVII Fitness Tracker’s long-lasting battery life significantly reduces the need for frequent charging, making it ideal for seniors who are frequently on the go or might forget to charge their devices regularly. 

With many practical functions such as alarm clocks, water drinking reminders, and music controls, this fitness tracker is a fantastic assistant for an active senior lifestyle.


Buying Guide

When shopping on your own, these are the features I recommend you pay close attention to.

Accuracy and Reliability

When choosing a heart rate monitor watch for seniors, it is vital to consider its accuracy and reliability. Monitors that provide accurate and consistent readings will help users keep track of their heart rate effectively.

Some features to look for include:

  • Optical heart rate sensors
  • ECG-based heart rate measurement

Ease of Use

For seniors, it’s important that heart rate monitor watches are user-friendly. Look for devices with:

  • Simple interfaces
  • Easy-to-navigate menus
  • Straightforward setup processes

Readability

Seniors may have difficulty reading small or unclear text. Consider watches with:

  • Large, clear displays
  • Adjustable font sizes and backlight settings

Safety Features

Some heart rate monitor watches come with additional safety features that cater specifically to seniors:

Comfort and Fit

Seniors will be more inclined to wear a heart rate monitor watch if it’s comfortable. Consider watches with:

  • Adjustable straps
  • Lightweight designs

Durability and Water Resistance

A durable and water-resistant heart rate monitor watch will last longer and require less maintenance. Look for watches with the following:

  • Sturdy construction materials
  • Water resistance ratings

Battery Life

An ideal heart rate monitor watch should have a long battery life to minimize the need for frequent charging. Consider devices that:

  • Have battery life rated in days, not hours
  • Offer fast charging capabilities

Compatibility with Other Devices

Some heart rate monitor watches can connect to other devices for enhanced functionality. Consider those that:

  • Are compatible with smartphones or other fitness devices
  • Support syncing to apps or online platforms

Affordability

Budget plays a role in deciding which heart rate monitor watch to buy. Keep the following factors in mind:

  • The price range of available watches
  • Features and functions that justify the cost

Customer Support

Quality customer support can make using a heart rate monitor watch more enjoyable. Look for:

  • Responsive and knowledgeable customer service teams
  • Comprehensive user guides and manuals

Trustworthiness of the Brand

Finally, consider the reputation and credibility of the brand when making your decision. Trusted brands are likely to offer higher-quality products.

Considering these factors, you’ll be better equipped to select the ideal heart rate monitor watch for your needs. In the next section, we’ll explore additional ways to maximize the benefits of using a heart rate monitor watch for seniors.

Infographic: Top 5 Heart Rate Monitor Watches for Seniors

Heart Rate Monitor Watches infographic
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Uses for Heart Monitor Watches

Heart monitor watches offer several benefits, including:

  • Tracking fitness progress
  • Monitoring heart health
  • Alerting us to irregular or dangerous heart rates
  • Improving the effectiveness of exercise regimens

We can use heart monitor watches to track our fitness progress by setting daily goals and analyzing data such as our heart rate, steps taken, and distance traveled.

These watches also provide us with a summary of our workout sessions, helping us to optimize our exercise routines and achieve better results.

Another essential aspect of heart monitor watches is their ability to monitor our overall heart health. They provide valuable insights into our resting heart rate, which could indicate potential issues or improvements in cardiovascular health.

In addition, heart monitor watches can detect irregular heartbeats or rapid changes in heart rate, which could be a sign of a medical emergency.

We can also use heart monitor watches to maximize our exercise benefits by ensuring we stay within our target heart rate zones. By working out at the appropriate heart rate, we can achieve maximum cardiovascular gains while reducing the risk of injury or overexertion.

Feature-rich heart rate monitor watches can even offer additional tools, such as:

  1. Sleep tracking
  2. Stress-level monitoring
  3. Nutrition tracking
  4. Breathing exercises

These features can help us maintain a well-rounded approach to our overall health and well-being, ensuring that we focus on our cardiovascular health and mental and emotional wellness.

Tips for Choosing a Heart Rate Monitor Watch

Our experience has provided us with the following tips to share with you to make the selection process easier.

First and foremost, the watch should be easy to use with a user-friendly interface.

Seniors may have difficulty navigating complex menus, so get a watch that has simple navigation and clear instructions. Large, easy-to-read displays and buttons are also preferable.

Another important factor is the range of features offered by the watch. Some essential features to consider include:

  1. Heart rate monitoring
  2. Step counting
  3. Sleep tracking
  4. Calorie counting
  5. Alerts for prolonged inactivity

In addition to these basic features, it’s worth considering any specific needs that the senior might have. For example, if they have a medical condition requiring more detailed health tracking, look for a watch that includes those functionalities.

Comfort should not be overlooked, as the senior will wear the watch throughout the day. Ensure the chosen heart rate monitor watch has a comfortable and adjustable wristband that does not cause irritation. A lightweight design is also a plus.

Lastly, consider the watch’s battery life. Choose a watch with long-lasting battery life, minimizing the need for frequent charging.

For seniors who might not be as tech-savvy or forget to charge the watch, this aspect ensures they don’t miss out on valuable health data.

How to Use a Heart Rate Monitor Watch

When using a heart rate monitor watch, the first step is to find your resting heart rate. To do this, we recommend wearing the watch for a few minutes while you relax in a seated position. Your resting heart rate is the average number of beats per minute (BPM) during this period.

Once you have your resting heart rate, set realistic fitness and heart health goals. Here are some pointers to keep in mind:

  1. Consult your doctor or a fitness professional.
  2. Determine your target heart rate zones based on your age, health, and fitness level.
  3. Create a workout plan that includes cardiovascular training and strength training.

With your goals in place, it’s time to use the heart rate monitor watch. Here is a step-by-step guide on using the device during exercise:

  1. Wear the watch snugly around your wrist.
  2. Turn on the device, and make sure it’s set to track heart rate.
  3. Engage in your chosen activity while periodically monitoring your heart rate.
  4. Adjust the intensity of your workout to stay within your target heart rate zone.
  5. Record your heart rate data to track your progress over time.

In addition to tracking your heart rate during workouts, you should also monitor your overall heart health. To do this, we recommend the following:

  • Utilize the watch’s additional features, such as sleep tracking, stress monitoring, and recovery time estimation.
  • Keep track of your daily activities and monitor trends in your heart rate data.
  • Set reminders to take breaks and engage in breathing exercises or meditation for relaxation.

Finally, remember that consistency is key to seeing results. You can continue progressing in your fitness journey by monitoring your heart rate regularly and adjusting your workout plan accordingly.

As we move on to the next section, we will discuss different types of heart rate monitor watches available in the market, helping you choose the right one to support your goals.

Certified Senior Advisor (CSA)®
Senior Home Safety Specialist (SHSS)®
Assistive Technology Professional

Scott Grant has spent more than 20 years serving seniors and the elderly in the home medical equipment industry. He has worked as a manufacturer's rep for the top medical equipment companies and a custom wheelchair specialist at a durable medical equipment (DME) provider in WV. He is father to 4 beautiful daughters and has three terrific grandkids. When not promoting better living for older adults, he enjoys outdoor activities including hiking and kayaking and early morning runs.

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