Which watch version/software for my Mom?

[bradleyheathhay]

My Mom is getting older and wants an iWatch for if she falls and for it's ability to detect unusual heart rhythms.

From what I understand you don't have to get the newest iWatch to get the sensors and software that can do this for her.

Of course, I'd like to do this as inexpensively as possible. What's the oldest version of the iWatch that will still do all the medical functions the newest iWatch can do?

Thanks!

 

[jz0309]

My Mom is getting older and wants an iWatch for if she falls and for it's ability to detect unusual heart rhythms.

From what I understand you don't have to get the newest iWatch to get the sensors and software that can do this for her.

Of course, I'd like to do this as inexpensively as possible. What's the oldest version of the iWatch that will still do all the medical functions the newest iWatch can do?

Thanks!

fall detection and ECG started with the S4, S6 brought SpO2 (something that might be useful too). Check what deals can be had, before last xmas Amazon had pretty good deals on S7.
There are certain requirements for iPhone/iOS versions but you're not providing any info so do your research on Apple website on that topic

 

[Mikeske]

I am older veteran and if someone in the family is a veteran they can get a 10% on the watches on the veterans/military apple website. Since I am also older in my mid 60's I just went with the series 8 GPS only along with my iPhone 14 Pro. I actually wanted all the latest features of health monitor and sleep modes. I learned a lot about myself using this and I like but The series 7 has all the features minus car crash detection and temperature monitoring that is kind of useless for an older male. One thing is I did notice with having the temperature monitor me when I sleep that when I had a cold I did notice that my temperature did go up slightly when I was sleeping. I was never near having a fever just a degree over my baseline for a couple days.

 

[TorbenIbsen]

I am 71 and have an Apple watch for the same reasons as your mom. And to support my memory. She will be fine with Apple Watch 6 which is also the one I have. Newer features are not really needed.

About the memory assistance. I tend to forget all the "I must remember to..." thoughts in seconds if distracted. So I have gotten used to simply dictate those thoughts immediately to the Watch. I use the app Drafts to do this. It converts spoken tekst to typed text which is then synchronized to the iPhone and other connected devices like iPad and Mac. Works in many languages, also "small languages" and is pretty good at it's job. Might be an idea for mom to, perhaps. - Also easy at night without glasses. - There is also a Mickey Mouse screen which you tap and Mickey tells you what time it is. Also great at night without glasses.