Smart locks make a tremendous gift for the elderly. However, not all smart locks suit the needs of seniors. Most electronic locks out there just aren’t optimal for older adults. When it comes to the elderly, security becomes a much bigger concern as they’re more susceptible to robberies than their younger counterparts.
Given their imperfect abilities, convenience is another critical need for seniors. They may lose their keys, forget their passcodes, or face difficulties when entering the passcodes. Moreover, some seniors are not tech-savvy enough to operate their smart locks via their smartphones.
On top of that, if they’re facing serious health issues such as Alzheimer’s disease or dementia, you will have to look for smart locks that give you and your family peace of mind regarding the safety of your loved one.
Let’s explore the best smart locks for seniors.
Last update on 2023-09-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Top Smart Locks for Seniors
Danalock V3 Bluetooth Smart Lock
When it comes to caretaking for seniors, you won’t find a smart lock more promising than the Danalock V3 Bluetooth Smart Lock.
At the outset, it looks like a traditional thumb-turn bolt designed for those having trouble adapting to new technology. However, it operates like magic for those suffering from rheumatism, arthritis or arm muscle issues. Eliminating all the key fumbling, it will automatically unlock as a user approaches the door and lock when they leave.
Based on the preferences of the user, it can also be set to lock/unlock with a slight manual twist or be operated through voice commands via Apple Siri. For seniors who don’t have or use Wi-Fi, an optional keypad is also included so they can obtain access via passcodes.
However, the device doesn’t offer access via temporary passcodes and doesn’t have in-built Wi-Fi for remote access. It does allow smart home integrations with Z-Wave Plus, Apple HomeKit, Samsung SmartThings, and Zigbee, but you need to buy the Wi-Fi Danabridge separately to operate the lock remotely.
However, the device covers all the features required for elderly people, making it the best option available on the market.
Pros
- Auto-lock/unlock ensures utmost convenience to seniors
- Can be operated through voice commands
- Optional keypad for non-tech-savvy users
- Supports smart home integrations
Cons
- Doesn’t allow temporary passcodes
- No built-in Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi hub nor included in the package
Kwikset 98880-004 SmartCode 888 Smart Lock
This Kwikset Smart lock comes with a variety of features to suit the requirements of elderly people. With multiple ways to unlock, users can go keyless and not worry about losing the keys. Entry options include entering a passcode, mobile app, and auto-lock.
While it won’t unlock automatically as Danalock V3 did, it will automatically lock the door behind you after a specified period of time. Auto-lock is an incredible feature for seniors with the habit of forgetting things too often. They won’t have to worry about whether they locked the door or not. When away from home, users can check the status such as locked or unlocked, on their mobile app.
Even if you’re thousands of miles away from home, you can operate the lock remotely through Wi-Fi. But you need to connect the lock with the Z-Wave base to be able to do that. Remote access not only means unlock/lock but also the ability to track who enters or leaves your home right on the mobile app.
Unlike Danalock V3, the device does allow you to use as many temporary or permanent passcodes as you like to grant access to your friends and family, regardless of where you are.
Pros
- Auto-lock feature
- Remote access
- Allows you to track door activity
- Allows access through temporary passcodes
Cons
- Connection with Z-Wave base required for remote access
Schlage Z-Wave Connect Camelot Touchscreen Deadbolt
The Schlage Z-Wave Connect Deadbolt redefines what it means to be secure by offering all of the high-level security features in a single door lock.
Certified with BHMA/ANSI Grade 1, the smart lock has the highest residential rating. The built-in alarm sensor immediately alerts you of suspicious activity at the door, allowing you to easily set any of the three alert modes: activity, temper or forced entry.
The device consists of a sleek, innovative keypad and the main entry option is entering a code. The keypad is fingerprint-resistant, preventing intruders from detecting the numbers on the touch screen through fingerprints. While the device can store up to 30 passcodes, you can choose to not use the codes at all and use your smartphone instead.
As an advanced lock, it can be paired with a multitude of home automation systems such as Amazon’s Alexa, Wink, Iris systems, and Samsung’s SmartThings Hub. This means you don’t need to share temporary access codes to grant access to occasional guests. There’s a lot more flexibility with the device as it can be paired with a Z-wave compatibility remote or a proximity sensor for maximum automation.
Using Z-Wave technology, when you connect the lock with home automation systems, you also get to operate the lock remotely from a smart device. Also, it lets you monitor the door activity from anywhere. Hence, if you’re an elderly person, you don’t need to go all the way to the door to let your housekeeper in.
Moreover, the device is easy to install and fits most residential doors. As long as you have a screwdriver, you should be able to install it in a little time. In worse-case scenarios, the process won’t take more than an hour.
Pros
- Ensures high-level security
- BHMA/ANSI Grade 1 certified
- Carries a built-in alarm
- 3 different alert modes for alarm
- Highly flexible for smart home integrations
Cons
- Limited keyless entry options
Defender Security Satin Nickel U 10827 Door Reinforcement Lock
If you’re looking for extraordinary security and safety for your elderly family members, and the look doesn’t really matter to you, the Satin Nickel Door Reinforcement Lock should be a decent purchase.
The lock is primarily designed for children and elderly people with diminished mental capabilities, preventing them from leaving the home on their own. It’s a great remedy for seniors suffering from dementia and prone to wandering or going out when they shouldn’t.
Resistant to upward of 800 pounds of force, it won’t open unless disengaged, which is a multi-step process that can be easily mastered by caretakers, while confusing those faced with dementia. Hence, there must be at least one permanent caretaker at home if you wish to use this lock. Also, it offers a lot of flexibility in terms of where it can be installed.
For instance, you can install it on the doorframe, keeping it out of reach of children or elderly people.
Pros
- Tough and tamper-resistant
- Child-safe design
- Perfect for wandering seniors
- Flexibility in terms of installation
Cons
- Requires a permanent caretaker at home
Kwikset 92640-001 Contemporary Electronic Keypad Single Cylinder Deadbolt
For non-tech-savvy seniors who don’t have issues remembering codes, this Kwikset Deadbolt is a valuable option that relies on keypad codes to grant access to users. Elderly people can set the codes themselves, which should make it easier for them to remember them too. To keep themselves on the safe side, they may also carry a mechanical key that comes with the device.
Besides, the device allows you to set up to 6 unique permanent codes, making it ideal for homes with multiple caretakers and service personnel arriving at various times. Furthermore, it also comes with an auto-lock function so that it locks itself automatically when you get past the door.
Pros
- Ideal for non-tech-savvy seniors
- Allows up to 6 permanent codes
- Keyless entry via passcodes
- Comes with a mechanical key
- Auto-lock feature available
Cons
- Only 1 keyless entry option
- Not suitable for seniors with the habit of forgetting things
- No remote access
Final Verdict: Best Smart Lock for Seniors 2023
Finding a smart lock suitable for seniors requires a different approach, as their needs and priorities, which often center on safety, simplicity, and accessibility, may differ from the general population. It’s crucial to take into account the specific needs and abilities of the elderly individual in question.
One critical consideration is health. For instance, if you’re caring for someone who tends to wander, a symptom often associated with conditions like dementia, then it’s vital to choose a smart lock that can help prevent unsupervised exits.
Additionally, if the senior is comfortable using mobile apps, there are smart locks available that allow for hands-free operation. Such locks can detect the individual’s approach and automatically unlock, then lock behind them as they enter or exit. This means that if someone visits, the elderly person doesn’t even have to stand up to let them in; a simple voice command or a swipe on their smartphone will do the trick.
Given these considerations, we highly recommend the Danalock V3 Bluetooth Smart Lock as a top choice for seniors due to its user-friendly features tailored for their convenience.
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