The 17 Best Products for Seniors Living Independently

If you or someone close wants to remain independent and age comfortably at home, modern gadgets and newer products can offer the reassurance and assistance required. Below are our top picks for every room and situation.

Per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), one in four people aged 65 in the United States will live into their 90s. If current patterns persist, the Pew Research Center projects that 27% of individuals aged 60 and older will live alone.

Most residences aren’t constructed around the needs of older adults, so staying independent and aging in place — solo or with a partner — requires forethought. Minor adaptations can often be sufficient to enable active older adults to live and flourish safely in their own homes.

Ensuring you or your loved one remains safe and connected, even when living solo, doesn’t have to be costly. From bed rails to kitchen aids and shower seats, many items are available to make daily living safer and more manageable.

A quick look at the best products for seniors living independently

• Best doorbell camera:Ring Video Doorbell 3 with Ring Chime (2nd Gen) | Skip to Review
• Best for reaching things:ZAYAD Reacher Grabber Tool | Skip to Review
• Best for staying connected:Amazon Echo Show 8 | Skip to Review
• Best shower grab bar:Medline Shower Grab Bar Handle | Skip to Review
• Best bathtub mat:Gorilla Grip Bathtub Shower Mat | Skip to Review
• Best shower seat:Drive Medical Shower Chair | Skip to Review
• Best toilet seat riser:Vive Health Toilet Seat Riser | Skip to Review
• Best bidet:SmartBidet SB-1000 | Skip to Review
• Best can opener:Bartelli Soft Edge Automatic Electric Can Opener | Skip to Review
• Best jar opener:BAGTeck Jar Bottle Opener | Skip to Review
• Best automatic stove shutoff device:FireAvert Auto Stove Shutoff | Skip to Review
• Best bed rail:Stander EZ Adjust Bed Rail | Skip to Review
• Best high tech medical alert system:Aloe Care Health Total Care | Skip to Review
• Best plug-in and play medical alert system:Bay Alarm Medical SOS Home | Skip to Review
• Best locked pill dispenser:e-Pill Voice | Skip to Review
• Best pill dispenser for caregivers:MedaCube | Skip to Review
• Best treadmill:Sunny Health and Fitness Walking Treadmill | Skip to Review

A note on price

The safety items listed here span several price ranges. To simplify budgeting, we categorize costs as follows:

• $ = under $50
• $$ = $50–$100
• $$$ = over $100

Around the house

Best doorbell camera

Ring Video Doorbell 3 with Ring Chime (2nd Gen)

• Price:$$$
• Dimensions:2.44 in x 5.06 in x 1.06 in (6.20 cm x 12.85 cm x 2.69 cm)
• Colors available:silver/black, black

Pros

• can be hardwired or run on battery power to fit most homes
• includes motion alerts, two-way talk, and night vision

Cons

• installation may feel complex for some users
• needs a smartphone for setup and regular use
• could be tampered with or disabled by intruders

Older adults are frequently targeted for at-home theft and similar crimes. For people living alone, measures that boost security are among the most valuable.

The Ring Video Doorbell is a straightforward tech solution that lets you check who’s at your door whether you’re home or out.

It supports two-way audio so you can speak with visitors even if they don’t ring. Night vision automatically activates so you can see clearly after dark.

The device can be connected to:

• locks
• lights
• alarm systems
• Alexa

Ring works with Android and iPhone devices. The package ships with installation aids like a drill bit, Phillips screwdriver, and level. You might need a power drill for mounting.

Best for reaching things

ZAYAD Reacher Grabber Tool

• Price:$
• Dimensions:extends to 31 in (78.74 cm)
• Colors available:silver/black

Pros

• 90° rotation lets you pick up items vertically or horizontally
• suitable for indoor and outdoor tasks

Cons

• those with limited hand strength or dexterity may struggle with the handle

A grabber tool can increase independence and reduce fall risk by preventing the need to reach dangerously for items.

Falls at home can lead to severe injury or death. The CDC reports seniors experience over 36 million falls annually. Many such incidents can be avoided by removing the need to use:

• ladders
• step stools
• unsafe climbing aids like chairs

This inexpensive grabber removes the need to climb for items on high shelves and can retrieve fallen objects like glasses, books, or remotes so you don’t have to bend and strain your back.

The jaw features a rubberized, non-slip grip to hold items securely. The ergonomic soft-grip handle is easy to squeeze for most users. However, people with hand tremors or conditions such as arthritis might find it harder to operate.

Best for connection to the outside world

Amazon Echo Show 8

• Price:$$$
• Dimensions:5.35 in x 7.89 in x 3.90 in (13.59 cm x 20.04 cm x 9.91 cm)
• Colors available:charcoal, glacier white

Pros

• HD touchscreen with adaptive color
• 13 MP camera that auto-centers you in frame
• video chats are voice-activated via Alexa

Cons

• may feel too technical for some older users
• screen could be small for those with low vision

Loneliness affects people of all ages, and in the post-pandemic era, more than one in three older adults report feeling isolated. While no gadget replaces a companion’s company, the Echo Show 8 can help people stay in touch.

It offers voice-controlled video calling, the ability to view several camera feeds at once, Alexa-enabled games, web access, and streaming of TV and music. Use it to flip through pictures when you’re feeling nostalgic.

The device also helps with scheduling and reminders so you don’t miss appointments or tasks. A one-year limited warranty is included.

In the bathroom

Best shower grab bar

Medline Bathtub Grab Bar w/Microban

• Price:$
• Dimensions:9.5 in x 7 in x 19.5 in (24.13 cm x 17.78 cm x 49.53 cm)
• Colors available:white

Stepping into and out of a tub can get harder with age. A grab bar gives added stability for entering and exiting the tub, even for those who use wheelchairs.

This shower rail is simple to install and fits standard and walk-in tubs. Weighing about 4 pounds, most people can manage installation, though those with low upper-body strength might want help.

Pros

• simple installation
• supports users up to 250 lbs
• tool-free setup
• handle has Microban antimicrobial layers to resist mold, mildew, odor, and stain-causing bacteria

Cons

• not suitable for curved, textured, or angled tubs
• may loosen over time and need tightening
• no returns

Best bathtub mat

Gorilla Grip Bathtub Shower Mat

• Price:$
• Dimensions:35 in x 16 in
• Colors available:14 options including clear, black, gray, pink, and green

Adding a non-slip mat to the tub or shower is a simple safety upgrade, even in tubs that already have textured bottoms.

The machine-washable Gorilla Grip mat is designed for in-tub use and is made from soft plastic that’s comfortable to stand on. Hundreds of suction cups create a slip-resistant surface and the design promotes drainage and airflow to reduce mold and mildew.

Other solid options include the SlipX Essential Round Shower Mat and the Tike Smart Extra Long Bath Mat. Creating a slip-resistant surface is crucial because a large number of fall injuries, such as hip fractures, happen in bathrooms.

Pros

• hundreds of suction cups and drainage holes
• BPA-free
• strong grip

Cons

• not recommended for use on tile floors

Best shower seat

Drive Medical Shower Chair

• Price:$
• Dimensions:22.2 in length x 6.9 in width x 17.9 in height
• Material:plastic
• Colors available:white

Shower chairs let people who can’t stand comfortably bathe while seated. A solid shower seat greatly reduces fall risk during bathing.

This model includes a full back and armrests for added support. The non-slip seat has drainage holes and can support up to 350 lbs.

Pros

• backrest and armrests
• strong suction cups
• height-adjustable

Cons

• takes up space in the tub
• may be awkward to move for households with multiple users

Best toilet seat riser

Vive Health Toilet Seat Riser

• Price:$$
• Dimensions:19.25 in x 13.75 in (elongated), 22 in x 17.25 in (standard)
• Material:plastic
• Colors available:white

Toilet risers increase the height of existing seats, making sitting and standing easier for people with limited mobility or strength.

The Vive riser adds 3.5 inches to a toilet seat and has a narrow width that works well in small bathrooms. Users report it’s sturdy and easy to clean.

It supports users up to 300 lbs and installs without tools.

Pros

• fits elongated or standard bowls
• suits compact spaces
• nonslip base
• padded handles

Cons

• only available in white

Best bidet

SmartBidet SB-1000

• Price:$$$
• Dimensions:20.6 in x 17.95 in
• Material:plastic
• Colors available:white

Wiping after toileting can require twisting and bending that’s hard for people with balance or mobility issues. A bidet removes the need for manual cleaning, supporting safety and better hygiene.

This model uses a remote control to avoid twisting toward a side panel. It offers adjustable water pressure, temperature, and oscillation, plus a nozzle setting for front or rear cleaning and an automatic dryer so toilet paper isn’t necessary.

Pros

• available in elongated or round shapes
• adjustable water temperature and pressure
• soft-closing lid

Cons

• requires a power outlet
• installation help may be needed for some users

In the kitchen

Best can opener

Bartelli Soft Edge Automatic Electric Can Opener

• Price:$
• Dimensions:3 in x 2.1 in x 7.4 in
• Material:plastic
• Colors available:red

Food prep can demand dexterity and grip strength. Manually operated can openers that need twisting can be difficult for older adults or people with arthritis.

The Bartelli electric opener eliminates sharp edges on the can and lid and needs no hand force to operate. Position it on top of the can and press a button to start.

Pros

• creates smooth edges on cans and lids
• works with pull-tab cans

Cons

• must be turned off manually
• may not function on dented cans

Best jar opener

BAGTeck Jar Bottle Opener

• Price:$
• Package Dimensions:10.98 in x 4.92 in x 1.22 in (27.89 cm x 12.5 cm x 3.10 cm)
• Colors available:red/gray

Pros

• budget-friendly
• helps people with reduced grip strength open most jars and bottles

Cons

• may not handle extra-large jars
• limited color option

Tightly sealed jars preserve freshness but can be impossible to open with weak hands or neuropathy. This three-piece set provides multiple tools to open nearly any jar, can, or bottle.

• The 4-in-1 opener has an ergonomic, non-slip handle for squeezing and turning to open everything from large jars to small bottle caps.
• The non-slip gripper pad lets you open jars by placing your hand on top and twisting.
• The vacuum-release tool helps open pop-top cans by a quick wrist flick.

Made of stainless steel and plastic, and dishwasher-safe.

Best automatic stove shutoff device

FireAvert Auto Stove Shutoff

• Price:$$$
• Dimensions:7.5 in x 3.7 in x 2.5 in (19.05 cm x 9.4 cm x 6.35 cm)
• Material:electrical conductor materials
• Colors available:black

People sometimes forget a burner is on. FireAvert connects to your home smoke alarm and will automatically shut off stove power when the smoke detector activates.

Installation is tool-free and easy. Models are available for three- and four-prong stove connections.

Pros

• helps prevent kitchen fires
• syncs with smoke and gas detectors
• simple installation

Cons

• compatible only with electric stoves
• may not work well in very humid or dusty areas

For safe sleeping

Best bed rail

Stander EZ Adjust Bed Rail

• Price:$$$
• Dimensions:26 in x 22 in (66.04 cm x 55.88 cm)
• Material:alloy steel
• Colors available:black

Bed rails assist with getting into and out of bed and can prevent falls for restless sleepers.

This model includes a handy pouch for glasses, remotes, or books, freeing up space on the nightstand. It supports users up to 300 lbs and fits mattresses from twin to California king.

Pros

• works with various mattress sizes
• adjustable to different bed lengths

Cons

• may be heavy to lift and install

Medical alert systems

Best high tech medical alert system

Aloe Care Health Total Care

• Price:$$$, monthly
• Dimensions:varies by device
• Colors available:white

This system features a voice-activated smart hub that connects you to a high-rated emergency response center in seconds. It includes built-in sensors for:

• temperature
• motion
• air quality

You can enable automatic fall detection in a specific room, such as the bathroom, without needing a worn device.

The package can include a 4G LTE mobile smartwatch and pendant for protection outside the home, and caregivers get tools via an app.

Pros

• 24/7 emergency monitoring both indoors and outdoors
• automatic fall detection, motion sensors, and voice recognition
• caregiver app tools

Cons

• one-time hardware expense
• setup may be difficult for those who aren’t tech-savvy

Best plug-in and play medical alert system

Bay Alarm Medical SOS Home

• Price:$, monthly
• Dimensions:varies by device
• Colors available:white and black

Bay Alarm Medical has a long history of dependable service and fast response. The SOS Home kit includes a plug-in base station with a large help button and a wearable help button for wrist or neck. The wearable operates up to 1,000 feet from the base.

Automatic fall detection is offered as an add-on.

Pros

• connects via landline or 4G LTE cellular
• waterproof wearable help button safe for showers

Cons

• doesn’t provide protection while away from home
• designed for in-home and yard coverage only

Pill dispensers

Best locked pill dispenser

e-Pill Voice

• Price:$$$
• Dimensions:10 in x 10 in x 3 in (25.4 cm x 25.4 cm x 7.62 cm)
• Colors available:white

Missing doses or taking incorrect amounts can be dangerous. This dispenser features a locking lid with a key for safety.

Each compartment holds up to 24 aspirin-sized pills and the unit can be programmed for up to six daily reminders with illuminated alerts and voice prompts.

When the alarm sounds, the internal turnstile advances and the next compartment unlocks so you can take the pills. After replacing the unit, the lid locks again until the next scheduled dose.

Pros

• prevents missed or double-doses
• stores up to 28 days of medication

Cons

• cost may be prohibitive for some
• requires AA batteries

Best pill dispenser for caregivers

MedaCube

• Price:$$$
• Colors available:black

This programmable dispenser has a touchscreen and customizable alerts including chimes and familiar voices. When a dose is dispensed, the unit takes a photo so remote caregivers can confirm the amount, and caregivers receive notifications for missed doses and low supplies.

The MedaCube can also handle as-needed medication via on-screen prompts. Although user-friendly, it may be too advanced for those who become confused easily.

Pros

• customizable settings
• arrives assembled
• easy touchscreen interface

Cons

• expensive
• not ideal for people who become flustered or confused

Workout equipment

Best treadmill

Sunny Health and Fitness Walking Treadmill

• Price:$$$
• Dimensions:58 in x 29 in x 53 in (147.32 cm x 73.66 cm x 134.62 cm)
• Material:alloy steel
• Colors available:gray

Treadmills can be risky if set to high speeds. This low-step treadmill caps at 5 mph and includes an emergency stop clip for added safety. You can also browse our other top walking treadmill picks and related gear like best mouthwash for overall oral care after workouts.

Pros

• simple console
• padded multi-grip handrails
• emergency stop clip
• low deck height
• floor stabilizers

Cons

• weighs 123 lbs

Frequently asked questions about products for seniors

What products do seniors need the most?

It varies by individual. For many older adults, a medical alert system with fall detection is essential. Other useful items include:

• toilet seat risers
• safety rails
• walking treadmills

What are some innovative products for seniors?

Today’s