Easy to use blood pressure monitor for elderly

Posted at h in Product Reviews

Measuring blood pressure is a key part of monitoring the patient’s health condition. It is usually recommended by physicians to prevent the development of hypertension and it is important to keep track of it.

Did you know, that every 20-point increase in systolic reading and a 10-point increase in diastolic reading doubles the risk of heart attack or stroke? Loss of control on high blood pressure may put the person at risk of serious medical conditions. The higher the blood pressure, the higher the risk for stroke or heart attack.

The only reliable way to know your exact blood pressure is with a quality monitor. We will review them below, but first, let us take a closer look at the different aspects of blood pressure and why it is important to know how it affects your health.

Finding the Right Blood Pressure Monitor

There are many different blood pressure monitors available in the market today that can be bought directly from the manufacturer, pharmacies, medical stores or online. With different brands comes different models, and with different models there are different features.

With all this, you as a customer will get dizzy just looking at these features or catalogs being shown by different companies or manufacturers. Although it is hard comparing the different features of the different models and brands of blood pressure monitors, it’s also worth it.

There are many different kinds of features being offered by blood pressure monitors. One of these is the fully automatic inflation and deflation feature, wherein a blood pressure monitor’s cuff inflates automatically.

Another feature, which is usually offered by new blood pressure monitors is voice feature. This feature is good for those people who have hearing problems. Some of these blood pressure monitors with voice features have integrated headphone in order to provide convenience and enhance privacy options. All you have to do is to state your age and in a few minutes, it will tell you if your blood pressure is too high or too low.

There are also some blood pressure monitors that provide easy carriage, like the blood pressure monitors that look like wristbands. They weigh less; they are also durable and easy to use. Furthermore, there are also blood monitoring devices that provide a large display of blood pressure and pulse rate. While some have 60 to 90 memories with date and time stamp to track progress.

Should You Choose an Aneroid or a Digital Monitor?

The good choice of blood pressure monitor is the one that passed through independent testing to ensure accuracy. The common types of blood pressure monitors are the aneroid and digital blood pressure monitors. The aneroid monitor is transferable and easy to carry wherever you go, usually, it has a built-in stethoscope. Although it is easy to carry, it is also complicated because it can easily get damaged and cause inaccurate results.

A digital blood pressure monitor is an advanced and widely used monitor because it is automatic. The result can be determined easily because it has an easy to read feature. The result is shown on a screen and some of its designs have a paper print out that gives you a record of the reading.

Best Automatic Inflation Blood Pressure Monitors

Automatic inflation blood pressure monitor (AIBM) has a comfortable cuff fitting arms of 9” to 17”. This medical equipment accommodates both standard adults and individuals who are among those with great risk of health problems.

Its personalized inflation provides more accurate measurements for each individual. It is added with extended length cuff prepared with an original, pre-formed cuff tube placed over the brachial artery on the inside of the arm. This allows for a proper fit and can be applied without assistance. This is equipped with state of the art technology which enables the blood pressure monitor to inflate and deflate at the optimum level. This helps in the increase of accurate measurement as blood pressure typically changes throughout the day.

AIBM is also ideal for physicians and healthcare professionals as this helps them monitor the progress of their patients’ blood pressure over time, with its memory recall with time and date.

1. Omron BP652 7 Series Blood Pressure Monitor

If you are looking for a top-quality, reliable wrist blood pressure measuring unit, look no further then the Omron BP652 7 Series blood pressure monitor. Omron is one of the top names in blood pressure devices, and they certainly didn’t disappoint with this model, which boasts an assortment of great and innovative features. So let’s take a closer look and see what it can do.

For starters, the unit is very small and portable, so that you can take measurements where ever you are. It comes with a storage case, two AAA batteries, an English/Spanish instruction manual, and a 5 year limited warranty.

Unlike upper arm units which take your readings by sliding a cuff up to your upper arm, the Omron BP652 blood pressure measuring takes your blood pressure by sliding the cuff over your wrist. Once the cuff is on, you simply position your wrist at heart level.

The device’s “Heart Guide Technology” will then flash orange and blue indicator lights in order to help you position your wrist to the correct location before it begins taking its measurements. Getting inaccurate readings is one of the biggest complaints with many of the home monitors on the market, and Omron’s “heart rate technology” helps ensure that you get accurate readings every time.

As your blood pressure readings are being taken, the device will also check for an irregular heart beat. And should it detect an irregular heart beat, a warning will flash, indicating that you should consult with your physician.

Once your blood pressure readings are displayed, a “blood pressure level indicator” feature can show how your results compare to internationally recognized guidelines for normal home blood pressure levels.

The Omron BP652 7 Series blood pressure monitor is also great at making sure your results get stored. For starters, it has a “two user mode” which allows 2 people to store their results on the machine. It can save up to 100 readings per person (200 readings in total), with a date and timestamp so that you know exactly when each reading took place. And an “advanced averaging” feature allows you to display morning and evening blood pressure averages from the last 8 weeks.

So now that we know more about this model, let’s take a look at some of the negatives that customers have been saying:

  • Uses AAA batteries
  • Cuff could be better

The Omron BP652 blood pressure monitor scored very high with customers. The few complaints were regarding the use of batteries, and the cuff. The batteries aren’t a huge issue since two AAA batteries will last up to 300 readings, and such a small portable wrist device wasn’t designed to use an AC adapter.

We also noticed a few complaints about the cuff not fitting very comfortably, but this was in a small minority of people. Overall the unit appears to be very accurate thanks to its “heart rate technology”, and we would definitely recommend it.

If you would like to check out more customer reviews or buy the Omron BP652 7 Series blood pressure monitor, click here to see it on Amazon. We highly recommend Amazon since they offer extremely cheap shipping rates, quick delivery, the LOWEST prices, and a no hassle exchange or refund if you aren’t satisfied with the product.

2. Omron BP710 Automatic Blood Pressure Monitor

If you are looking for an inexpensive and reliable blood pressure monitor, the Omron BP710 Automatic Blood Pressure Monitor comes highly recommended. Priced at under 40$, this unit comes with many of the same features available on higher end models. Let’s take a closer to see what it can do.

For starters, the unit is very quiet and simple to operate. It features Omron’s “one-touch use”, which starts and stops the unit with the press of a button. The display has big bold numbers that are very easy to read, even for people with poor vision.

It comes packaged with one contoured D-ring arm cuff, an English/Spanish instruction manual, and offers a 2 year warranty. The included D-ring arm cuff is the standard size, which fits arm sizes 9″-13″ in circumference. A larger cuff is also available, which fits arm sizes 13 to 17 inches. Having the right cuff size is key to getting accurate measurements.

One of the great features on this device is the irregular heartbeat detector. As the device reads your blood pressure, it will simultaneously check for an irregular heart beat. If an irregular beat is detected, a warning will be displayed on the device indicating that you should consult with your physician.

The BP710 comes with a few other neat features, such as “IntelliSense” technology, which offers automated cuff inflation level settings and electronic deflation control. And finally, it comes with a memory storage feature, which will display the last 14 readings that have been taken.

Here’s a quick pros and cons list of the Omron BP710 based on actual customer reviews.

Pros:

  • Very easy to use
  • Very quiet operation
  • Small and portable
  • Inexpensive

Cons:

  • Does NOT come included with an AC adapter, must run off batteries

We were impressed with the Omron BP710. It offers several of the more useful features commonly found only in higher-end models, and even keeps a 14-day record of previous readings, all for under 40$. We would definitely recommend this unit.

3. Omron BP760 7 Series Upper Arm Blood Pressure

The Omron BP760 blood pressure monitor provides an assortment of great features that can be found in many other of Omron’s 7 series devices. It has a big screen with bug numbers, making it easy to read. And it’s very simple to operate, just power it on and press start.

It comes with a comfort fit cuff, which is a pre-shaped cuff designed to expand in order to fit larger sized arms. It has a comfort wrap guide, which is an indicator on the device that tells you whether the cuff has been correctly fitted on your arm.

It has an advanced averaging feature, which takes the average of the 3 readings in order to come up with one accurate result. It also has an irregular heart beat detector, which checks for an irregular heart beat at the same time that your blood pressure readings are being taken. If it detects an irregular beat, a warning will appear on the machine to notify you that you should consult with your physician.

There is also a built in blood pressure level indicator that displays your blood pressure readings against the internationally recognized guidelines for normal home blood pressure levels. This helps you see how close you are to a proper, healthy blood pressure reading.

One last but very useful feature is the device’s ability to store previous readings. It can hold up to 60 readings total (so 30 days worth of readings) with the date and timestamp, which can be viewed with the press of a button.

The Omron BP760 blood pressure monitor comes with instructions, an ac adaptor, a zipper pouch, and a 5 year limited warranty.

So now that we know what it can do, what are other people saying about it? Well, based on customer reviews, a larger majority of people are very happy with the device. But here are a few things they aren’t too happy with:

  • Some people with larger arms have difficulty getting the comfort fit cuff to fit properly, resulting in errors being displayed on the device
  • Lack of profiles means it can only record readings for 1 person

The Omron BP760 blood pressure monitor appears to be a very good unit. We saw very few people report issues about inaccurate readings. The biggest complaint was about the comfort fit cuff not always fitting right, which is an issue we have seen with many other similar Omron models, and appears to be hit or miss depending on the size of the persons arm.

Another minor complaint was that this unit can only record results for 1 person. This really isn’t a complaint worth mentioning, as this model doesn’t have the “two user mode” feature, and models which carry that feature cost more. So if someone wants that, they just need to pay a bit more to get the next higher model. Take a look at our Omron BP785 review if that feature is something that interests you.

So with that said, we would definitely recommend this model. It’s well priced, reliable, and easy to use. If you are looking for more features, be advised that they come with a higher price tag, and will make the blood pressure monitor unit much more complicated to learn and use.

4. OMRON 10 Series Wireless Upper Arm Blood Pressure Monitor

The first product that I want to talk about here is currently the #1 Best seller for blood pressure monitors on Amazon.com. This model is the upgrade to the OMRON 5 series, which itself is still a popular choice for at-home use. This one has a bigger memory and improved features to try and enhance performance.

The Omron BP785 10 Series Upper Arm Blood Pressure Monitor is a new monitor that replaces the previous and very popular Omron HEM-780. The New Omron BP785 boasts updated features and software that leaves many of its competitors playing catch-up. Let’s take a look at some of the device’s features.

Out of the box, this Omron blood pressure monitor includes one ComFit Cuff, one English & Spanish instruction manual, one Quick Start Guide, one AC adaptor, and one storage case. The ac adapter is a nice touch since some monitors don’t include one, and must run off batteries. The device is small, light, and has large, easy to read numbers thanks to a black backdrop with white numbers.

The Comfit fit cuff is a special patented design that provides a comfortable fit and accurate readings with every use. It expands to fit both regular and larger arms. An indicator on the device will let you know if the cuff has been fitted correctly.

The Omron BP785 also comes with several checks to make sure that the readings you are getting are accurate. For starters, it has a calibration check system, which uses dual sensors to verify every reading to make sure the values being displayed are accurate. Next, it uses Trueread technology, which basically consists of taking 3 readings, one minute apart, and then displays the average of the readings.

Another great feature on this Omron blood pressure monitor is its ability to track your reading’s history. It comes with a two-user mode, which means 2 different people can use the blood pressure monitor and both their readings will be saved on the device. So you can both flip through the history of your readings.

It also has advanced averaging which can review an 8 week history of your weekly morning and evening blood pressure averages. It has memory storage capacity for 200 readings, along with a timestamp so that you know exactly when that reading took place (*note that if 2 people are using the device then it will record 100 readings per person).

Two other fantastic features on this model are the irregular heart beat detector and the blood pressure level indicator. The irregular heart beat detector measures your heart beat at the same as your blood pressure readings. If it detects an irregular heart beat, a warning will be displayed on the unit.

The blood pressure level indicator shows your blood pressure results against internationally recognized guidelines for normal home blood pressure levels, so that you have a good idea of where your readings should be at.

Pros:

  • You can create data logs for two users
  • The system uses smart readings to create the most accurate data it can
  • The cuff shape is designed to be more effective

Cons:

So now that we have reviewed all the positives on the unit, are there any downsides? Yes, based on customer feedback, there are some complaints.

  • The comfort fit cuff can sometimes throw errors even when it appears to be on properly without any interference
  • Poor user manual- While it’s basic features are easy to use, some of it’s advanced features can be difficult to use without resorting to the user manual
  • Poor choice of icons and buttons on the machine, counter intuitive
  • Requires a battery in the unit in order to keep the recorded data saved (just incase you unplug the unit from the wall). A built-in internal battery to save data would have been more convenient
  • The air hose could be longer
  • Bluetooth data protection issues are a concern for those trying to connect to the app
  • No better for accuracy than many other devices

The first benefit here is the fact that this Omron 10 series has the memory to track up to 100 readings for each of the two possible user profiles. This is more than similar machines. It does so with TruRead technology, where it create an average from 3 consecutive readings. The idea here is that this should improve accuracy. That data is then displayed on an easy-read back-lit display. There is also a pre-formed cuff that inflates around the whole arm at sizes between 9 to 17 inches.

The biggest issue with this product is the confusion surrounding the Bluetooth data. To access the app and use the Bluetooth functionality on this updated 10 series, you apparently need to agree for them to access your data. Where is the data going when you give permission in exchange for this? Who benefits from this medical information? Aside from that, there are the usual comments about the lack of accuracy. It seems to be no better than other devices in that regard.

The Omron BP785 appears to be a very good unit. The biggest complaint we saw was in regards to the comfort fit cuff occasionally giving errors even though it seemed to be on fine.

It appears to be a fairly accurate unit (although you will never find a monitor with perfect accuracy readings, there are always some people who will report getting some strange/inaccurate readings).

Overall, we are satisfied with the results and would definitely recommend this model. Omron is known for providing quality blood pressure monitors, and this is certainly one of them.

As far as at-home machines go, this model is one of the more accurate and effective options for users. Ignore the app and Bluetooth issues and focus on the basic functions and readings. There is still enough information there to help you track your blood pressure with ease.

5. Care Touch Digital Blood Pressure Monitor Cuff – Platinum Series

Anything that markets itself as being part of the platinum series is always going to do well with consumers. There is the assumption that it does more than its rivals or previous generations of the technology. There are some great claims about the speed and the technology in this device to suggest that this might be true.

Pros:

  • Many buyers find that this is pretty easy to use
  • The technology is fast with additional aids for a better reading
  • Additional accessories improve the user experience

Cons:

  • The memory function is lower at just 60 readings
  • Perhaps too easy to get inaccurate results?

One of the greatest benefits of using this system is the fast response of 1 minute. Users don’t have to sit around waiting for this to give them data and risk interfering with the results. At the same time, the device has an additional warning system for an irregular heartbeat. Simple user-friendly features here include the large LCD display, the choice between batteries or the AC adapter, the large cuff and the carrying case. The battery power and case add to the portability of the machine for results on the go.

There aren’t too many negative comments about the ease of use here as most seem happy with the process. However, there are a lot of warning about how to get the best results. This includes testing at the same time each day, placing the cuff and display in precisely the right place, have your wrist at heart level, etc. This could make it easier to get inaccurate results if users don’t follow these rules. The other possible downside here is the lower memory compared to other options in this guide.

The feedback from users suggests that this is one of the easiest products to use when looking for the best at-home blood pressure machine. It still isn’t the most accurate or the smartest around. But, it is fast, relatively reliable and offers just enough features for users to get results on their own with ease.

6. PARAMED Blood Pressure Monitor Accurate Automatic Upper Arm Bp Machine

The unique selling point here is that this is actually a “talking” device. The appeal of this will depend on your needs and disabilities. A speaking model that gives audible readings and alarms can b great for those with visual impairments. There is also an additional feature when the machine plays music as it takes the reading. This is more for fun than any medical benefit.

Pros:

  • The talking features for the results
  • The large display that also help those with visual impairments
  • The ability to track data for two different users

Cons:

  • There have been some inaccurate readings
  • There was a lack of instructions in some cases

It isn’t just the talking feature of this product that makes it such a popular choice with consumers. The technology for the readings ensures that you can get clear data with the quick readings and the large LCD display. This display holds data for 60 readings for 2 people. There is even a self-checking system on-board that lets users check for signs of arrhythmia. Be aware that the cuff here is an upper-arm cuff, not one for the wrist. That is why it looks so big. It fits arms between 22 and 40cm.

Some of the audio features on this model did catch users off-guard because they weren’t aware of them. An example of this is the music while receiving the results. This isn’t for everyone as it detracts a little from the medical side of the product. One reason people weren’t aware of was the lack of instructions. This issues could also be part of the reason for some of the inaccurate readings that have been generated.

This a great device for all those that may have trouble reading the screen and need an independent approach to blood pressure readings. The music does mean that it verges into gimmick territory. But, the additional features are enough to make it recommendable to this target market. With better instructions, this machine would get even more positive reviews.

7. Greater Goods Blood Pressure Monitor Cuff Kit by Balance

The reason that this Balance machine makes the grade in this guide is that it is an updated kit for a better experience. The company has improved the feel and design of the cuff with a new soft fabric. This extra comfort can make a difference. The new kit also includes the wall plug adaptor, batteries and a storage case. This improves the potential for transporting the device to other locations.

Pros:

  • The updates to the design with the improved cuff
  • The ease of use with the LCD screen and memory
  • The improved portability with the new case and adaptor

Cons:

  • There have been issues with the display when changing the batteries
  • The cuff is too large for some users

At this point, you will see that many of the best blood pressure machines for at-home use follow a similar blueprint. They have many of the same benefits and flaws because of the limitations involved and the intended purpose. Therefore, you will see that this model has some familiar advantages, such as the 2-user memory, the large LCD screen, and simple process.

One of the issues that have been mentioned about this product is that you may have to reset the date and time on the system once you change the batteries. This could be an issue for all those that don’t notice and rely on the data too much. Some say that the machine also won’t work if you plug it into a wall outlet without the batteries inside. Also, be aware that some find that this model has a large cuff and a short tube on the older version of the product. Thankfully, some were able to get a smaller cuff as a replacement from the company.

If this machine was a little more user-friendly with the battery system and different cuff sizes, it would be a 5-star product. At it is, it is still recommendable for many buyers because of the improvements made to the design, the ease of use and the readings on offer.

8. Lovia Blood Pressure Monitor Upper Arm

The unique selling point with this machine is the fact that you can get two different sets of readings for two health issues. There is the blood pressure reading taken from the inflated cuff in the same manner as other products. Then there is the additional heartbeat reading that you can see alongside this. This could help alert users to other medical concerns or changes across the week.

Pros:

  • 1) The dual data stream for more medical information
  • 2) The quality of the display
  • 3) A large memory for two different users.

Cons:

  • 1) The cuff is too small and tight for a lot of people
  • 2) Some inaccuracies with the readings and the output on the display

The main benefit here for users is the amount of data on offer and the way that they can use it to improve their healthcare. There is a one-button start here that makes it easy to set the device running for regular readings. The system highlights both sets of results on the large 3.2’’ LCD screen and is able to hold 120 recordings for each of the 2 users. Therefore, it can prove to be a helpful aid for long-term progress tracking.

While the model above had a cuff that was too loose and large, this one has a cuff that is too small for a lot of people. It goes to show that there is a fine line and many companies would benefit from providing a series of cuffs or greater adjustability in their kits. Like so many of the other products in this series, there have also been some some inaccurate readings and issues with the display. They aren’t that common, but worth keeping in mind if something seems to be wrong.

This is a great option for those that want a little more information about their health than just the typical blood pressure reading. However, there are potential issues here with the size and design of the cuff. If this looks like it won’t be a good fit, you may need to look elsewhere.

9. Panasonic EW3109W Upper Arm Blood Pressure Monitor

Easy to use blood pressure monitor for elderly
The Panasonic EW3109W Upper Arm Blood Pressure Monitor is one of the best bang-for-buck home-use blood pressure monitors available on the market today. It comes with a bunch of great features and provides accurate readings each and every time. Let’s take a closer look at some of its features.

The Panasonic EW3109W has received tons of positive feedback from users. For starters, it’s easy to use. You simply slide on the cuff and press the start button. It’s just that easy. It will inflate the arm cuff automatically, and within seconds display your reading in big bold numbers on its “easy read” LCD screen. The automatic memory feature will keep track of your last 90 readings, allowing you to easily flip through past results.

The unit comes with a very convenient “easy-fit” cuff. The easy-fit cuff is a big step up from the conventional sleeve you find on many other machines since it comes with an embedded c-shaped spring which allows you to easily slide the cuff and off yourself, often without the need for having to detach the Velcro strap.

The Panasonic EW3109W blood pressure monitor is also very small and travel-friendly. Take it with you where ever you go. A convenient travel pouch is included. But don’t be fooled by its size, the unit is very sturdy and well built.

Special digital filters on the unit help block out noise factors and detect only essential pulse oscillations in order to help provide accurate reliable readings. A special warning system on the device will warn you in the event that your blood pressure reading is dangerously high or hypertensive.

The unit comes backed by a 2-year warranty and includes a manual, batteries, and a soft cloth carrying bag.

Here are the quick pros and cons list of the Panasonic EW3109W blood pressure monitor based on actual customer reviews.

Pros:

  • Device is accurate
  • Very quiet operation
  • Easy cuff is very convenient to slide on and off
  • Small and portable
  • Inexpensive

Cons

  • Does NOT come included with an AC adapter (sold separately)
  • The display is smaller than on some other units

Based on the majority of customer reviews, people are very satisfied with this blood pressure monitor. It’s cheap, small, easy to use, and works well. Perhaps the only downside is that it does not come with an AC wall adapter (must be purchased separately), but that isn’t really a big deal since 4 batteries should last you up to 500 uses.

10. Omron Series 7 Wireless Blood Pressure Monitor

Easy to use blood pressure monitor for elderly

Aside from systolic and diastolic pulse readings, Omron Series 7 (BP761 model) can also detect irregular heartbeats and has LED blood pressure level bars that highlight normal or hypertensive ranges based on international guidelines. The unit looks basic, but it has intuitive features that make it a valuable device for everyday blood pressure monitoring.

Pros:

  • 2 users
  • Can track up to 120 readings
  • Backlit screen display
  • Free Omron app
  • ComFit easy-wrap cuff design

Cons:

  • No AC adapter included
  • The readings run high

Marketed as the most precise blood pressure monitor in their lineup, the Omron Series 7 Wireless Blood Pressure Monitor can manage 2 users and track up to 60 readings for each user. For each reading, the backlit screen will display the average of your last 3 readings, powered by the monitor’s Advanced Averaging feature (only applies on readings taken within 10 minutes).

But once connected to the free Omron Connect app, you can manage, track, store, and share unlimited readings. The app is compatible with Bluetooth compatible with Android, Apple iOs, and Amazon Alexa-enabled devices.

The ComFit patented design inflates evenly across the arm. It can fit arms that are around 9 inches to 17 inches. The cuff’s length is like other brands of blood pressure monitor cuffs, but it is obviously better quality and it does not move around as you tighten it. And though this blood pressure monitor can be powered by either 4 AA batteries or plugged into an outlet, the manufacturer does not provide an AC adapter with the unit.

Another common complaint is that the unit may need recalibration. The readings may run high in several units and not on others.

11. OMRON Gold Wrist Blood Pressure Monitor (BP4350)

Easy to use blood pressure monitor for elderly

The OMRON Gold BP4350 Wrist Blood Pressure Monitor model is a more advanced portable unit powered by 2 AAA batteries. It’s more discrete with its size and silent cuff inflation. The wrist cuff can fit wrists that are from 5.3 inches to 8.5 inches in circumference. The Heart Zone Guidance ensures that the cuff will only inflate once your wrist is at heart level. One common complaint is that every little detail, from the way you wrap the cuff around your wrist to your general posture, will affect the accuracy of the readings.

Aside from the systolic/diastolic and pulse readings, the unit also has indicators for time and date, weakly morning average, 2-3 reading average, irregular heartbeat indicator, cuff deflation indicator, heartbeat indicator, movement (during measurement) indicator, wrist cuff tightness indicator, sync notification, app connection confirmation, and more.

Pros:

  • 2 user option
  • Monitors and tracks up to 200 readings
  • Omron Connect app via Bluetooth
  • Silent inflation
  • Heart Zone Guidance
  • High morning average indicator

Cons:

  • The right posture and correct positioning of the monitor is necessary for an accurate reading

Omron’s Golden blood pressure wrist monitor allows for 2 user profiles. Each user can store up to 100 readings. To better track and monitor readings, Omron has a free app that users can connect to via Bluetooth. Aside from Apple and Android devices, this app is also compatible with Amazon Alexa-enabled devices.

One unique feature amongst Omron Gold and Platinum series blood pressure monitors is the high morning average indicator. This will alert the user whenever either the systolic or diastolic blood pressure morning readings are out of the normal range, showing a heightened risk for a heart attack or stroke.

12. LifeSource Extra Large Cuff Arm Blood Pressure Monitor (UA-789AC)

Easy to use blood pressure monitor for elderly

Marketed as a professional-grade arm blood pressure monitor, the LifeSource by A&D Medical has clinical validation for accuracy. UA-789AC meets requirements for the ANSI/AAMI SP-10, a standard that establishes safety and performance requirements for all sphygmomanometers. Even so, the fit and position of the cuff will still affect the accuracy of the readings, similar to other BP monitors.

Pros:

  • XL arm cuff
  • 2 pumps for quick inflation
  • Simple interface

Cons:

  • Can only store and recall the last 60 readings

LifeSource UA-789AC arm blood pressure monitor has an extra-large cuff that fits upper arms that is 16.5 inches to 23.6 inches in circumference. The cuff also has a tapered design that fits the natural contour of the arm. This is advantageous especially for households with members that vary in body types as the cuffs not only fit a wider range of upper arm sizes but can also follow the shape of the arm, no matter the size. And the better fitting the cuff, the more accurate readings you can get.

Another positive feature is the 2-pump quick inflation feature. With an XL arm cuff, this may sound impossible, but this unit features 2 high-performance motors that allow for the cuff to inflate quickly.

The LCD is similar in design and size to other arm blood pressure monitors. Though, unlike other advanced units, the LifeSource has an intuitive one-button operation with indicators for pressure rating and irregular heartbeat. The unit’s memory can recall up to 60 recent readings, which may not seem much, especially that it only has one user option.

Best Wrist Blood Pressure Monitors

A wrist blood pressure monitor is used to measure the blood pressure of the patients with arthritis and other arm ailments. It is an alternative for a patient that is unable to use the traditional blood pressure cuffs. Although it is said that finger and wrist monitors do not measure blood pressure very well, many people are still using it. The reason for the devices’ incapability is that they are sensitive to body position and body temperature, and they are more expensive than other monitors.

However, some of the wrist blood pressure monitors have 48 memory storage, a large easy-to-read LCD panel, and a hand storage case. Some of these devices also feature a pulse monitor. And of course, a wrist cuff is included when you get a hold of this kind of monitor.

This device usually comes in a compact design for easy storage. It can be used anytime and anywhere because it does not take too much space in your bag. Innovations are really applied with these kinds of monitors because they are made in a wrist-watch style, push buttoned and also have a wrist cuff that automatically inflates.

Manufacturers have come up with the idea of adding much utility to this device, and as a result, the wrist blood pressure device are improved to look like a watch. Some people want to take their pressures in a discreet and simple manner. It is battery operated and handy to the user.

13. Hong S Digital Wrist Blood Pressure Monitor

This next option will always catch the eye of consumers because the description talks about the clinical accuracy and medical benefits of the product. As you might expect after the frequent issues with inaccuracies in the readings, this claim is a little overblown. However, there are some nice additional medical tools here with the alert for an irregular heartbeat and the ability to track data over a few months.

Pros:

  • The system for detecting an irregular heartbeat
  • The adjustable cuff for a more comfortable reading
  • The portability of the small device with its carrying case

Cons:

  • A lack of instructions in some packages
  • Contradictory readings on some devices

Aside from this additional alert, there are some other benefits here too. This product is a wrist device with a small, adjustable cuff on the wrist area. This means that it can be easier to see the readings with the device on. It also provide comfort and a small enough system for portability. The additional carry case helps here too as users can take this around with them to other locations or even on holiday with few concerns. The readings appear on the large LCD display and there is enough memory for 90 data logs for each of the two users.

The negative comments for this product make for familiar reading and show that no matter what companies do to create an effective at-home model, there are always going to be issues with the accuracy of the reading. This model has its own issues in this area with some contradictory information occasionally appearing on the screen. There are also some cases of missing instructions.

There is a lot to like here, even if this machine has some of the predictable flaws seen in other models. Those that get the full instructions can find that this portable model is a nice alternative to upper arm cuffs with some helpful data and alerts. It promotes at-home, independent use in a way that some other machines can’t.

FAQ About Blood Pressure

What is Blood Pressure?

Blood Pressure is a force of the blood pushing against the walls of arteries. It is important that you know both your systolic and diastolic pressure. Systolic pressure is when the heart is at its utmost beating and pumping out the blood, while diastolic is when the heart is at rest and between beats, the blood pressure slows down.

Blood pressure differs between people and depends on the state of health of the person, age, and clinical situation. The blood pressure is measured in terms of millimeters of mercury (mmHg).

What is a Normal Blood Pressure for a Baby?

A newborn’s blood pressure is around 80/50 mmHg. As he grows older, it rises so an average healthy individual should have a BP of 120/80 mmHg.

What is a Normal Blood Pressure for an Adult?

For normal blood pressure, the systolic reading should be less than 120 while the diastolic reading is less than 80. Prehypertension blood pressure, the systolic reading is 120 – 139 and the diastolic reading is 80 – 89. Stage I hypertension blood pressure, the systolic reading is 140 – 159 and the diastolic reading is 90 – 99. For stage II hypertension blood pressure, systolic reading is 160 and higher and the diastolic reading is 100 and higher.

What Causes High Blood Pressure or Hypertension?

High blood pressure may be caused by a combination of bad habits and lifestyle rather than a single element eventually leading to the onset of hypertension.

Risk factors that have been known are obesity, excess sodium, smoking, stress, alcohol and poor diet to name a few. These are distinct factors primarily increase the onset of commonly referred to as primary hypertension.

Secondary hypertension factors are the ones that have definite known causes such as aortic narrowing, specific drugs, pregnancy, increased thickness of blood and various kidney and glandular diseases.

How to Monitor Blood Pressure Correctly?

In monitoring the blood pressure, there are some tips to remember. To measure your blood pressure, do not use caffeine, alcohol, and cigarettes 30 minutes before you measure. Proper blood pressure monitoring should be done first thing when you wake up in the morning and before dinner. Either you use the upper arm or wrist method, bear in mind that it is at your heart level. Always measure your blood pressure on the first day of every month.

How Can You Maintain a Healthy Blood Pressure

Observe moderate drinking. 1 or 2 drinks of alcohol per day are the limit. Too much of alcohol drinking and consumption is one of the causes that can elevate your blood pressure.

Do not eat foods that have high in salt and sodium. Try to avoid processed or canned foods. Always look at the food labels of the product that you will buy. Look for products that are labeled low in sodium or unsalted. Salt-free seasonings, spices, and herbs can be used in cooking and rinsing canned foods and products that contain high sodium is very much advised and recommended to the consumers.

Always maintain your weight in a healthy range and increase physical activity. Avoid being overweight because it can significantly cause high blood pressure. Decrease caloric intake while increasing physical activities and exercises at the same time.

Which blood pressure monitor is best for seniors?

Mid-Range Wrist Blood Pressure Monitors for Seniors.
A&D Medical Wrist Blood Pressure Monitor. ... .
Color Doctor Original Blood Pressure Monitor. ... .
iHealth Sense Wrist Smart Blood Pressure Cuff Monitor for Smartphones. ... .
Mark of Fitness WS-820 Automatic Wrist Blood Pressure Monitor. ... .
Omron 7 Series Wrist Blood Pressure Monitor..

What is the easiest to use blood pressure monitor?

Our pick. Greater Goods Smart Blood Pressure Monitor 0604. The best home blood pressure monitor. This Bluetooth monitor and its corresponding app are very easy and intuitive to use. ... .
Runner-up. Greater Goods Blood Pressure Monitor + Kit 0602. The same monitor, minus Bluetooth. ... .
Also great. Omron Evolv. A monitor and cuff in one..

What is better arm or wrist blood pressure monitor?

Some wrist blood pressure monitors may be accurate if used exactly as directed and checked against measurements taken in your provider's office. For the most reliable blood pressure measurement, the American Heart Association recommends using a monitor with a cuff that goes around your upper arm, when available.

Which type of blood pressure device is most suitable for home use?

Upper arm monitors are considered extremely accurate for home use, with many doctors and patients agreeing that home use allows for more standard readings. Here, the best blood pressure monitors according to our test.