Top Seniors’ Alarm Clocks – 2024 Guide and Reviews
What are the best alarm clocks for seniors? If you’ve asked yourself this question and you’ve been searching for the perfect model for quite some time, we believe we can be of assistance to you. Following an in-depth analysis of some of the most sought-after models out there, we came to the conclusion that the American Lifetime Day Clock is the unit you ought to bear in mind. This option comes with everything that an elderly citizen might need. It displays the time and date using large numbers and letters and it comes with as many as five alarm options. There’s also a battery backup present, which means that the product will do its job even in the event of a power outage. Should this alternative no longer be available, we suggest checking out the Sonic Alert SBH400SSB.
Comparison table
1st Choice
This device can be very useful, especially for seniors who have a hard time seeing the time, and who have to take medication at specific hours. The unit is designed with a large display showing the time, day, and the date as well, and it comes with five alarm options. All these details are displayed with big letters and numbers, making them visible even for people with eyesight issues.
This device remains a few minutes behind after a while. If you purchase this model, time should be checked and adjusted regularly.
A great, very easy to see alarm, ideal for elderly people with eyesight issues.
2nd Best
This alarm features a bed shaker vibrator, ideal for deaf people, or those who are dealing with hearing issues. A nice thing about this alarm is that the backlit numbers do not bother the user while trying to fall asleep, as the device has a five-level dimmer. The brightness of the display can, therefore, be customized according to any needs. In addition, it has an eye-catching design.
There is only one issue with this alarm -- it does not feature large, easy-to-read numbers as other products in this line come with.
It is a perfect alarm for deep-sleepers and people with hearing issues.
Also To Consider
For people who have specific times when they need to take their medication, this alarm clock comes equipped with four notifications. This item displays the time, the date, and the day using large numbers and letters. The screen is backlit, which is a useful feature during both the day and the night. The adjusting volume of the alarm makes this device a great candidate in its line of products.
The device comes with four alarms, but some owners would have liked to have the option to select the number of alerts they actually need.
This is a reliable companion for people who require multiple reminders per day.
7 Best Alarm Clocks for Seniors (Reviews) in 2024
Whether you’re in the market for a cheap alarm clock for senior citizens or you have nothing against spending a bit more just to make sure you’re getting the right product off the bat, you’ll find our selection useful. It’ll save you a lot of time if you have none to waste and browse through hundreds of reviews of alarm clocks for seniors.
1. American Lifetime Day Clock Extra Large Impaired Vision
Many seniors have a bit of a hard time seeing what time it is and whether they have to take a pill out of their pill organizers. Sight issues are extremely common with aging people, and here’s where this device can come in handy.
The best thing about this alternative is that it is outfitted with a large display that can show the user the exact time, what day it is, the time of day, as well as the date. All of this information is displayed using big letters and numbers, so if there is any medical condition that involves sight issues, the senior will still be able to know the time.
Another interesting aspect about the American Lifetime model is that it comes with as many as five alarm options. You can even set specific reminders for when the medication needs to be taken. Plus, there’s a battery backup that the device will utilize if the power goes off.
Pros
This 8-inch model spells the time in large letters that are easy to read and it also delivers info such as the period of the day, the day of the week, the month, and the current date.
It comes with five distinct multi-function alarms that allow you to set a reminder so that you can take your medication in time.
A battery backup is included so that, in case of a power outage, the correct time is displayed when the power returns.
The choice is backed by a one-year warranty policy and it has a nice design that goes well with all types of setups.
Cons
One aspect you should know about is that this clock does not adjust itself automatically for daylight saving time.
Because the controls are on the back of the device, you might find that setting it to display the right time can be somewhat tricky.
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2. Sonic Alert Sonic Bomb Extra Loud Heart Alarm Clock
If you’ve been looking for one of those great gifts for seniors that also serve a purpose, and that aren’t just good because of their eye-catching design, this alarm clock might just be what you have been searching for. It features a bed shaker vibrator, so it is made for those people who can hardly hear anything while they are asleep.
It also does a great job when it comes to waking up people who are partially deaf, as well as those that are experiencing hearing loss. Obviously, it is particularly good at doing what it is supposed to. The only problem about it is that it doesn’t come with the same large and easy-to-read numbers that you’d find in other models.
The backlit numbers don’t have to bother the user while he or she is trying to fall asleep as this device also comes with a five-level dimmer. Thus, you can customize the brightness of the display as per your needs.
Pros
This alarm is very loud and it also includes bright flashing lights, as well as a 12-volt bed shaker vibrator that will certainly wake you up.
Moreover, the tone and the volume of the device can be adjusted so that it can perfectly fit your needs and preferences.
The model allows users to snooze between one and 30 minutes. You can also choose how much you want the actual alarm to last.
Besides, you get to control the intensity of the light of the display. This way, if you find it hard to fall asleep, you won’t be hindered by its brightness.
Cons
This device is as loud as 113 dB. However, if you are a very heavy sleeper, you might have difficulties hearing it. However, this is rarely the case.
Because the shaker shuts itself off automatically after a while, you might not be able to feel it if you are hard to wake up.
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3. Medcenter Talking Alarm Clock
This alarm clock is equipped with four notifications, so it is perfect for patients who constantly need to be reminded of the specific times when they have to take their medication. The product displays the day, the date of the month and the hour and minute, so that the user knows most of what he or she needs to be informed of.
The display is easy to read, which is a convenient feature for those people who have a hard time looking at smaller numbers. The screen is backlit, so it will do its job both during the day and at night.
There is also the option of adjusting the volume of the alarm, in that it can be heard even by people who are experiencing hearing loss or those that are partially deaf. The unit is also equipped with a talk mode that tells you the day and date and instructs you when to take the meds.
Pros
This alternative has a very simple design that makes it particularly easy to use by seniors who are not technologically savvy.
It features a function that alerts the user that it is time for him/her to take his/her medication up to four times a day.
The option was designed to be very loud so that the users hear it clearly. Also, it has a large display that is easy to read.
Because the device runs on 2 AA batteries, the manufacturer has included them in the deal so that you don’t have to make additional purchases.
Cons
Given that this model was designed to be simple to utilize, it cannot be connected to a smartphone or other similar device.
When used by seniors who do not have their hearing aid on, this choice might not be loud enough for them to hear it. The validity of this assertion depends on the needs of each user.
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4. DreamSky Little Digital Alarm Clock with Snooze
Good alarm clocks for seniors don’t necessarily come cheap, but they don’t have to be expensive, either. DreamSky’s affordable device is a nifty little helper for someone who has a hard time waking up in the morning. It’s easy to use and even easier to set up seeing that all you have to do is plug it into an outlet.
The clear digital display comes with a dimmer and measures 1.2 inches, which should be enough for someone who doesn’t regularly experience sight issues. There is a sizeable snooze button on top, so if you really don’t feel like getting out of bed, you can delay your morning routine for several more minutes.
Another thing that needs to be noted in relation to this model is that it boasts an alarm with an adjustable volume, which means that you can set it higher or lower depending on how good the senior’s hearing is.
Pros
This product is simple to operate and it is particularly easy to set up. It features a large snooze button that is placed on the top of the clock.
It has a large, 1.2″ illuminated LED display that is very easy to read and it is overall small in size so that it won’t take up a lot of space.
The alarm lasts for about 2 minutes if the user does not stop it. It can also be utilized as a travel clock.
Even though this model has to be plugged in, it also has a battery backup so that the time is displayed correctly when the power is back on.
Cons
In case of a power outage, the display of the clock is not functional and the alarm will not sound to wake you up.
Because the switch of the clock is placed at its back, you might find it difficult to turn it off in the morning. For some, this is an advantage.
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5. Innoclock New Advanced Version Calendar Day Digital Clock
In some respects, the INNOCLOCK resembles another unit that we have showcased in our selection, in that it shows the user the day of the week, the time of the day, the specific time, as well as the date and the year. The numbers and letters are big enough to be seen conveniently and comfortably.
On top of everything, this product comes with as many as three alarms, as well as a nighttime dimmer, so if you’re having trouble falling asleep because of the brightness of the display, you can set it as per your preferences.
A unique feature boasted by this option and that you might fail to find in others is its capability to speak the information displayed on the screen. What’s more, it can do that in five languages — English, German, Spanish, Italian, and French. That makes it incredibly convenient for folks who were born in another country and now have an American or Canadian citizenship.
Pros
This product is ideal for those seniors who suffer from memory loss and vision impairment. It is eight inches in size.
The model displays the calendar day and the time in clear, white letters that are easy to read. No abbreviations are used so that no confusion is created.
You can set the clock to only display important info such as only the day of the week. It is perfect for those who often get confused.
It has an adjustable automatic nighttime light dimmer, three alarms, and a customizable time and date format.
The choice can be programmed to display the information in English, as well as four other languages: Spanish, German, Italian, and French.
Cons
This alternative is somewhat pricey and, thus, some of the interested buyers might not be able to afford it if they are short on funds.
When it comes to setting the clock to daylight saving time, seniors might have some difficulties understanding how to do it without external help from friends or family members.
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6. DreamSky Dual Alarm Clock with Smart Adjustable Nightlight
If you’re in the market for a model that is available for sale at a friendly price, maybe you should take the time to check out the specs of this particular one. It’s easy to utilize and can be used even by kids. The 5.3-inch display of this unit is by far one of its most convenient features, and that’s because it makes for a great option for those who can’t read small letters or numbers.
Aside from the large LCD, this model comes with two alarms, so if the elderly person takes just two meds per day, this is the perfect choice. The snooze period lasts for five minutes each time and it can be repeated without any limits.
The alarm of this clock is somewhat gentler compared to that of other products in that the beeping sound gets louder and louder as the user gradually wakes up.
Pros
This option features a 3.5 inches LED display that is tilted at 45 degrees so that it lets the user see the time easily, at just a glance.
It is suitable to be used by both people with sight-restrictions and seniors. Plus, because it has a simple design, it is effortless to use.
The unit is powered by 3 AA batteries that are not included in the price. So, this model is portable and it can be used while traveling.
On top of that, the clock features two alarms. You can set each of them according to your preferences. Each alarm sounds for one minute before it switches off.
Cons
The LED display of this clock can be dimmed during the night so that you can rest peacefully. Yet, doing so might interfere with your abilities to read the time correctly.
The sound of the alarm on this alternative is not particularly loud, which is why some users might find it ineffective.
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7. DreamSky Electronic
This one is slightly smaller than some of the others we have described, but it does its job without any issues whatsoever. It measures 4.7 by 1.9 by 2.6 inches, so it is compact and apparently, it’s small enough to fit in any user’s hand. It will, therefore, occupy less space on the counter or your bed stand.
The numbers are large enough to be seen by an elderly person and the display measures 1.2 inches, so that should be enough for most people. The red LED display can enable individuals to see the time from almost any angle.
An aspect worth mentioning about the DreamSky Electronic is that it comes with not two, but just one alarm. It might, therefore, not be the right choice for people who might be looking for a clock that can remind seniors when they have to take their pills.
Pros
This compact model measures 4.5 x 1.9 x 2.6 inches and, therefore, it can fit on most nightstands. Yet, it has a somewhat large display.
Because the display is red, you will surely have no issues reading the time, especially because the numbers are written in a large font.
It only features one alarm function. However, it is quite loud and it can be successfully used by those who need to wake up at the right time.
The option is easy to travel with because of its size. As a result, it is a good purchase for those seniors who love to take trips.
Cons
This product might not be suitable for those people who have to be reminded to take their medication at certain times of the day.
Since this clock only displays the time, and no other info such as the day of the week or the date, some might find it too simplistic for their liking.
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Our Yearly Guide
To help you through your decision-making process, we have created a useful buyer’s guide that you can find below. We’ve looked at some of the essential features that such a product should come with to be tailored to the needs of the elderly, and your own, as well, if you’re going to be sharing the product and you’re not a senior yet.
Now that you’ve ended up here, you might as well check out some of our other posts, such as those we’ve written on walking sticks or the one we’ve put together on choosing the perfect wheelchair cushion.
Alarms
This is an alarm clock we’re talking about, so one of its most important features should be the alarm. As you might imagine, none of these products are made the same and come with the same characteristics, and that’s why they speak to the needs of individual users.
Some models are outfitted with several alarms while others come with just one. If the senior you’re caring for doesn’t have any memory loss problems and strictly needs the device to wake up in the morning, you can safely and conveniently opt for one that comes with a single alarm.
On the other hand, some individuals can get a bit forgetful as they start to age. It’s for these that you should always select a clock that comes with several alarms that can be set depending on the specific times when you know the patient has to take his or her medication.
It’s up to the person buying the device, but the fact of the matter is that in the long run, the number of alarms and the adjustments you can perform in this sense can make or break the unit.
Size
While it might not seem like a critical factor to keep in mind, the dimensions of the product actually matter, and in two ways. One of them is that the user needs to have enough room on their bed stand for it, so if possible, the product should be more or less compact.
On the other hand, the size of the display that the clock is outfitted with matters a lot more, because the elderly person needs to be able to visualize the time with as little effort as possible. So there are actually two sizes you need to consider — the one of the entire unit and that of the electronic screen.
Analog or digital
In many respects, analog clocks are dated, and that’s because they have harder to read hands, they have to be set regularly and even checked by professionals, and they often don’t have the necessary features that could ever help a senior know the time.
Digital models are far more comfortable to utilize, especially since they are equipped with large screens where big letters and numbers are displayed. On top of everything, most such options come with customizable brightness levels, which basically means that the user can set the brightness as per his or her needs, especially before going to bed.
Extra features
While they aren’t particularly common, there are some alarm clocks that can also vibrate. Obviously, sometimes it is better to use these in the bed per se as they do a great job at waking up heavy sleepers.
Unfortunately, it’s almost impossible for a prospective buyer to find a model that encompasses all of these functionalities and even more. Usually, you’ll have to make a trade-off in some respect or the other.
Sturdily made models can’t come with big screens because they’re probably designed to have a large and reachable snooze button that can be hit time and again, morning after morning.
On the other hand, those that have big displays are usually more fragile, which means that you will have to make a compromise and understand that you might end up replacing the alarm clock ahead of its time.
While some clocks can be a bit smarter and tell you all you need to know — the date, the exact time, the day of the week, and even the hours when the alarms are set — others are far more basic and will only tell you the time.
Bibliography:
1) Choosing a Clock for People Who are Blind or Visually Impaired
2) Make Life Easier and Safer for Seniors with Low Vision
3) A Short History of Digital Clocks and Watches
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