Best Blood Pressure Monitors for Seniors: Top Picks

Checking your blood pressure at home can help you spot any variations early. It allows you to monitor how well your treatment is working and manage your blood pressure better. Features like a large display, memory storage, and voice assistance can make it easy for seniors to monitor their blood pressure at home.

Key takeaways

• Upper arm automatic blood pressure monitors are often considered the most accurate. 

• For people with vision problems, a blood pressure monitor with an easy-to-read display or voice assistance is a good option.

• Single-button blood pressure machines can be easy to use for some seniors, while others might appreciate the features a smart blood pressure monitor provides.

Types of blood pressure monitors

There are several types of blood pressure monitors to consider.

Upper arm monitors vs. wrist monitors

An upper arm monitor is typically used to take blood pressure readings in a doctor’s office. Because upper arm monitors tend to be more accurate, they’re usually recommended over wrist monitors. However, wrist blood pressure monitors might be a good option if:

• An upper arm monitor causes you pain.

• You can't find a cuff that fits.

• You have a medical condition that makes using an upper arm monitor difficult.

Your healthcare provider can advise if a wrist monitor is better for you, as well as teach you how to use it to get the most accurate readings.

Automatic vs. manual blood pressure monitors

Automatic blood pressure monitors self-inflate at the touch of a button, whereas manual blood pressure monitors must be inflated by squeezing a bulb and require a stethoscope. Generally speaking, manual blood pressure monitors offer more accurate readings than automatic (digital) ones.

That said, the accuracy of readings on a manual blood pressure monitor also depends on the person taking the measurement. While manual blood pressure monitors are recommended for trained professionals, they aren't great for self-monitoring.

Smart blood pressure monitors

Smart blood pressure monitors can give you insight into your blood pressure readings. They connect to your smartphone, which means you can access your blood pressure readings from anywhere or at a later point in time. 

You can also get additional details, such as charts that display how your blood pressure is trending over time, which can be helpful for your doctor. It can also help you determine if any treatments or lifestyle changes you have made are having an impact on your blood pressure. 

Best blood pressure monitors for seniors

When choosing a blood pressure monitor, it’s important to think about your needs. You might prefer an easy-to-use option, or you might want a device with additional features to give you better insight into your health.

Oxiline Pressure XS Pro - Best for features

The Oxiline Pressure XS Pro is an automatic blood pressure monitor that auto-inflates and deflates. It can detect where the cuff is on your arm and alert you if you’re using the monitor incorrectly. The device quickly detects heartbeat irregularities, allowing you to take timely action. You can choose from two different cuff sizes depending on what’s comfortable for you.

The monitor connects to your mobile device via Bluetooth and has unlimited memory within a linked app. The app offers real-time readings, a past readings archive, trend charts, and integrates with other apps, such as Apple Health.

Omron 3 Series Upper Arm Blood Pressure Monitor - Best for ease of use

The Omron 3 Series Upper Arm Blood Pressure Monitor is an easy-to-use, automatic blood pressure monitor. It’s perfect for seniors who aren’t good with technology or are new to checking their blood pressure at home. There’s only one button to press, but you’re not going without additional insight. The monitor connects to an app for tracking trends and sharing your blood pressure readings with your doctor. The device also has an irregular heartbeat detector.

A&D Medical One Touch - Best budget-friendly

For under $40, the A&D Medical One Touch is affordable yet offers accurate readings. The monitor has an easy one-button operation, and it stores up to 60 measurements.

BIOS Medical Blood Pressure Monitor Easy Read - Best for easy to read

The BIOS Medical Blood Pressure Monitor-Easy Read is a good choice for a large display blood pressure monitor. The monitor is also backlit with high contrast, which increases ease of reading. The device can store up to 90 blood pressure readings with time and date for easy tracking. It also has an averaging function that displays the average blood pressure readings for both day and night.

A&D Medical Talking Blood Pressure Monitor - Best for voice assist

For seniors who aren’t tech-savvy or who have vision issues, a talking blood pressure monitor can be helpful. A&D Medical’s Talking Blood Pressure Monitor gives you verbal instructions and results, including reminders to stay still, and lets you know if the cuff is too loose. It averages three consecutive readings for accurate results. The monitor comes with a medium-sized cuff.

Beurer BM 26 - Best for multiple users

If multiple people in your household need to monitor their blood pressure, then the Beurer BM 26 can be a good choice. It allows up to 4 users and stores 30 past readings.

Omron Evolv Wireless Upper Arm Blood Pressure Monitor - Best for portability

The Omron Evolv Wireless Upper Arm Blood Pressure Monitor is compact and easy to use. It's a single-piece device that’s great for traveling or checking your blood pressure anytime, anywhere. There are no wires or hoses, and it's easy to set up. It comes with a wide-range cuff and connects to the mobile app using Bluetooth.  

What to look for in senior blood pressure monitors

When shopping for a blood pressure monitor, consider your needs to determine what features might be helpful. For example, if you have vision problems, you might prefer a blood pressure monitor with an easy-to-read display.

Display and readability

For seniors with vision problems, an easy-to-read display is important. This includes large numbers and a backlit screen to make measurements easy to read, especially in lower light conditions. A color-coded blood pressure indicator can help you determine at a glance if your blood pressure is normal or elevated. 

Cuff size and comfort considerations

To ensure accurate measurements, the inflatable section of the cuff should cover between 75-100% of the circumference of your upper arm. It should also be wide enough to cover 40-80% of the space between your shoulder and elbow. Most blood pressure cuffs are available in a range of different sizes. To find the best size for you, measure the circumference of your upper arm. You’ll want to measure around your bicep, about halfway between your elbow and shoulder. Standard blood pressure cuff sizes include:

• Small: 8.7–10.2 inches

• Regular: 10.6–13.4 inches

• Large: 13.8–17.3 inches

• Extra-Large: 17.7 inches and over

While these are typical cuff size ranges, the exact sizes might vary by manufacturer. Most blood pressure monitors come with either a regular-sized or a wide-range cuff, whereas extra-large cuffs might need to be purchased separately. Choosing a cuff with rounded, soft edges and breathable material is necessary to ensure comfortable use.

Ease of use and accessibility

Some seniors like the features of a Bluetooth blood pressure monitor, as it enables them to access past readings and trend charts on their mobile devices. But others, who are not as familiar with technology or are new to measuring blood pressure, may want a simpler option. 

Several blood pressure monitors require the use of only a single button, so they are ideal for those looking for an easy-to-use blood pressure monitor. A talking monitor can help seniors with vision issues or those new to checking blood pressure. It guides them through the steps and reads the results aloud. Wireless blood pressure monitors are great for those who want to take readings while traveling.

How to choose the right blood pressure monitor

When shopping for a blood pressure machine for seniors, you’ll want to consider your individual needs and limitations, the monitor’s accuracy, and your budget and insurance coverage.

Individual needs and limitations

For seniors who have problems with vision, it’s important to choose a blood pressure monitor that is easy to read or with built-in audio capabilities.

If you find it difficult to put a blood pressure cuff on your upper arm, ask your doctor about a wrist monitor. But remember, wrist monitors may not be as accurate. 

To track your blood pressure over time, consider a monitor with an app. This app can show your results as charts and work with other health apps like Apple Health.

Accuracy

Upper arm automatic blood pressure monitors are generally considered the most accurate. Check the Validated Device Listing before you make a purchase. This way, you can see if your blood pressure monitor has been tested for accuracy. 

When you have your annual check-up, you can take your blood pressure monitor in to compare its readings against those in your doctor’s office. If you are a first-time user, you can also ask your doctor to show you the correct way to use the monitor. 

Budget and insurance considerations

While simpler blood pressure machines can be under $50, smart home blood pressure monitors can run upwards of $100. In addition to your budget, you’ll also want to consider your insurance options. Some insurance plans cover the cost of home blood pressure monitors, especially when they are used as part of a treatment plan, such as for hypertension (high blood pressure).

Does Medicare cover home blood pressure monitors?

Typically, Original Medicare (Parts A and B) does not cover home blood pressure monitors. However, Original Medicare may cover ambulatory blood pressure monitors (ABPM) once per year if ordered by your doctor. Original Medicare may also cover home blood pressure monitors for people on dialysis.

Some Medicare Advantage plans (Part C) do cover home blood pressure monitors. If you have a Medicare Advantage plan, contact your plan to see what is covered.

Bottom line

Blood pressure monitors with a single-button operation, such as the Omron 3 Series Upper Arm Blood Pressure Monitor, are easy to use for seniors.

People looking for more features and mobile-integrated options may prefer a smart home blood pressure monitor like the Oxiline Pressure XS Pro. When choosing a blood pressure monitor, consider your needs. A large display can be helpful, and you’ll want to make sure the cuff fits your arm well. If you’re unsure which blood pressure monitor is right for you, a healthcare professional can provide guidance.

FAQs

What is the most accurate blood pressure monitor for seniors?

An upper arm automatic blood pressure monitor is the most accurate for seniors. If you are unsure about the accuracy of your readings, you can take your machine to your doctor’s office and compare your readings against theirs.

Should seniors use upper arm or wrist blood pressure monitors?

Upper arm blood pressure monitors are recommended, as they are more accurate than wrist blood pressure monitors. However, if you have certain medical conditions, your doctor may recommend a wrist blood pressure monitor. They’ll show you how to use it to get the most accurate readings. 

How often should seniors check their blood pressure at home?

If your doctor recommends checking your blood pressure at home, they will advise you on how often to perform checks. If you are on a new treatment plan, they may ask you to take readings twice daily. For other patients, they might recommend checking it once a week.