Lifestyle

10/12/2018 | By Terri L. Jones

Could a watch improve your health … even save your life? Believe it or not, the new Apple Watch Series 4 actually could!

Heart Rhythms

The most notable health feature of the recently released Apple Watch Series 4 will be the ability to take an electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) simply by pressing a button. With this watch on your wrist, you can keep an eye on your heart and be alerted to the possibility of irregular heart rhythms, which could point to atrial fibrillation (AFib) or other serious conditions. Plus, if you’ve already been diagnosed with irregular heart rhythms and are under a doctor’s care, the Apple Watch can help you monitor your condition. NOTE: The ECG feature will not be available until later this year and will be updated on previously purchased watches.

Best Apple Watch Features and Apps for Seniors

Heart Rate

The sensors in this watch can also detect and notify you of higher or lower than normal heart rates. Not only can the Apple Watch signal a potential problem, but it also gives you good information to pass along to your physician.

Falls

The Apple Watch Series 4 can also reach out for help should you take a tumble. In the case of a hard fall, the watch will sound an alarm, tap you on the wrist and allow you to contact emergency services by simply touching a button on the screen. No action for 60 seconds will automatically trigger the emergency call for you.  If you don’t need help or didn’t fall, simply cancel services with a single tap of the screen.

Overall support

The new Apple Watch also works in tandem with a variety of apps to proactively take care of your health. There are apps to remind you to drink plenty of water, help improve your sleep, help you reduce stress, and manage conditions such as diabetes.

Prices starts at $399.

PLEASE NOTE: This watch is not a substitute for medical care and supervision.

Terri L. Jones

Terri L. Jones has been writing educational and informative topics for the senior industry for over 10 years, and is a frequent and longtime contributor to Seniors Guide.

Terri Jones