GPS Trackers for People Living with Dementia in Australia

When wandering becomes a worry

When someone you love is living with dementia, especially in the mid to late stages, safety becomes a daily concern. Wandering is one of the most frightening risks. But you're not powerless. Today, there are simple, discreet tools that can give you peace of mind while preserving your loved one's freedom. In this blog, we explore the best phone apps and wearable trackers available right here in Australia and a few that we hope make their way here soon.

What to Look For in a Dementia Tracking Tool 

Look for tools that work without requiring frequent interaction from the person with dementia. Ideal options should:

• Run passively in the background
• Offer real-time GPS tracking
• Include geofence alerts (e.g. if someone leaves home unexpectedly)
• Work independently of a mobile phone (for wearables)
• Be simple, discreet, and reliable

Smartphone Apps That Work in the Background If your loved one already carries a phone, these apps can help track their location passively.

1. ElliApp (Elli Cares)
A dementia-specific app built with empathy.

• Pros: Real-time GPS, geofencing, reminders, SOS, made for memory care, supports both iPhone and Android
• Cons: Full features require a paid subscription

2. Life360
A popular family tracking app with real-time updates.

• Pros: Real-time tracking, geofence alerts, SOS, works across platforms
• Cons: Can be disabled by user, some features locked behind subscription

3. Google Maps + Family Link (Android only)
A DIY setup using Google services.

• Pros: Free, accurate, customizable alerts
• Cons: Setup can be tricky, account must be managed, works best with Android

4. Apple Find My (iPhone only)
Apple’s built-in location sharing tool.

• Pros: Free, simple, geofencing alerts
• Cons: Only works with Apple devices, requires manual setup and permission

Wearable GPS Trackers Available in Australia 

These wearables work without needing to pair to a smartphone.

1. Safe-Life 4G Personal Alarm Pendant
A lanyard-style pendant with GPS tracking and SOS button.

• Pros: Reliable, Telstra-based coverage, SOS and fall detection, caregiver portal
• Cons: Needs charging every 2–3 days, visible device

2. Safe-Life 4G Dementia Watch
A discreet wristwatch version of the above.

• Pros: Looks like a normal watch, same features as pendant
• Cons: Slightly shorter battery life, may still need charging every day or two

3. mCareMate 4G GPS Alarm Pendant
Another Telstra-compatible device with a belt clip or lanyard.

• Pros: 3–4 day battery, clear app for caregivers, Aussie-based support
• Cons: Slightly higher price point, visible form factor

4. Apple AirTags (with Airtag Insoles)
A clever workaround using Apple’s AirTag inside specially made shoe insoles.

• Pros: Lightweight, hidden, inexpensive, no buttons
• Cons: Requires nearby iPhones to update location, not real-time GPS, no alerts if they leave a zone

5. Safe & Found
‍A simple, tech-free alternative using an engraved ID bracelets and membership-based rapid‑response systems so that police and the public can locate missing persons and return them safely

• Pros: Rapid response, police integration, visible ID, personalised profiles, national coverage
• Cons: Public awareness needed, reactive only, no GPS tracking

Choosing What’s Right for You If your loved one forgets their phone or struggles with technology, a wearable may be more reliable. If they already carry a phone and tolerate it well, a passive tracking app could be perfect. For those who resist devices entirely, AirTag insoles offer a gentle middle ground.

Not Yet in Australia - But Worth Watching Some standout tools aren’t officially available here—yet:

• AngelSense: A robust GPS tracker with listen-in and automatic pickup features, ideal for non-verbal users.
• GPS SmartSole: An all-in-one GPS insole that doesn’t require any cooperation from the wearer.
• Tranquil Watch: A high-end GPS smartwatch with Bluetooth beacon integration for home-based alerts.

Final Thoughts: Peace of Mind is Possible At HeartStreet, we know firsthand the stress of wondering if your mum or dad is safe. These tools can ease that fear whether you’re 5 minutes or 5,000 kilometres away.