SMART WATCHES WITH FALL DETECTION
- jennienorris
- Mar 3
- 3 min read
Smartwatches are no longer just a way to tell time or track fitness – they are essential tools for health and safety, especially for older adults. One of the most valuable features is fall detection. Falls are a leading cause of injury and having a smartwatch that can detect falls and alert loved ones or emergency services can make all the difference.
What is Fall Detection Technology?
Fall detection technology in smartwatches uses a combination of sensors and algorithms to detect when a fall occurs, detecting sudden changes in motion or orientation.
When a fall is detected, the smartwatch typically performs the following steps:
1.        Alert: The watch will alert the person wearing the watch with a vibration or sound, notifying them that a fall has been detected.
2.        Notification: If the wearer is unable to respond to the alert, the watch will send a message to a pre-selected contact, such as a loved one or it may call emergency services.
3.        Emergency Services: In more advanced models, the watch can directly alert emergency services with the user’s location to enable a quicker response.
Which Smart Watches have Fall Detection?
Fall detection is common in many smartwatches but not all models have it. Below, we list five popular options with fall detection or similar safety features. While we can’t provide specific reviews for each model, the options mentioned are highly regarded in the industry for fall detection and safety features.
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1. Apple Watch Series 4 and Later
Apple has been a pioneer in integrating health and safety features into their smartwatches, with fall detection starting in the Series 4. Using an accelerometer and gyroscope, it detects falls and automatically calls emergency services if the wearer doesn't respond to the alert. Please note Apple Watch is meant to be a partner device for your iPhone, so you cannot use it properly without your iPhone.
Features:
Automatically detects falls.
Sends alerts to emergency contacts.
Can call emergency services.
Integration with health apps for monitoring and tracking.
Apple Watch Series 10
Price: From £399
Link to a watch: https://www.apple.com/uk/shop/buy-watch
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2. Galaxy Watch3, Galaxy Watch4, Galaxy Watch5, Galaxy Watch5 Pro & Galaxy Watch6
Samsung's Galaxy Watch models also feature fall detection technology, though it’s not as refined as the Apple Watch. It uses sensors to detect sudden, sharp movements and offers the option to send alerts or call emergency contacts if the wearer doesn’t respond.
Features:
Fall detection via accelerometer.
Sends notifications to selected contacts or emergency services.
Offers a range of other health and fitness tracking options.
Samsung Galaxy Watch5 Pro Bluetooth
Price: From £321.75Â
Link: https://www.samsung.com/uk/watches/galaxy-watch/galaxy-watch5-pro-black-titanium-bt-sm-r920nzkaeua/
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3. Garmin Forerunner 945 & Fenix 6 Series
Garmin, known for its fitness-focused smartwatches, offers fall detection in models like the Forerunner 945 and Fenix 6. These watches are mainly designed for outdoor activities and can send fall alerts to emergency contacts.
Features:
Fall detection during outdoor activities.
Safety and tracking features for workouts.
Connects with Garmin’s safety app for emergency alerts.
Price: £499.99
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4. Google Pixel 3
The Google Pixel 3 uses its accelerometer and gyroscope for fall detection through third-party apps. While it doesn’t have built-in fall detection, it can alert emergency services when connected to compatible apps.
Features:
Fall detection via third-party apps.
Uses accelerometer and gyroscope.
Can alert emergency services.
Price: £349
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5. Amazfit GTR 4
Amazfit GTR 4 offers basic fall detection and activity tracking. This is a great choice for those who would prefer a less expensive option.
Features:
·      Fall detection with emergency alerts
·      Advanced sensors providing accurate health and fitness tracking, including heart rate monitoring and sleep analysis.
·      Comprehensive Health and Fitness Tracking
Price: £199
Conclusion
We highly recommend a smartwatch with fall detection due to it providing valuable peace of mind for seniors and their families.
When considering a smartwatch for fall detection, think about other factors such as battery life, ease of use, additional health features, and comfort. Always make sure the device is compatible with your lifestyle and meets your safety needs.