There are so many new gadgets to help you monitor your health.
Some of them could be a great Christmas present for a family member.
Because when it comes to being more health conscious, it’s always a good idea.
Most of us have all the TVs and Alexa devices we need after two years of pandemic spending. So many people are turning to high-tech items that could make our lives healthier.
Gadgets that make great gifts
Pharmacy manager Mona Wantrauth from Mullaney’s Pharmacy showed off new health devices that could be perfect for mom and dad or yourself. Many are updated versions of old classics.
“We carry the newest type of blood pressure cuff,” she said, “where you just push a button.”
Or, she says, consider a high-tech blood oxygen meter where “you just stick your finger in and push a button, and it shows you your oxygen levels.”
And for diabetics, you can now buy glucose meters that no longer require a skin prick.
“It’s a patch that you wear on your arm and then it goes to your phone and records your blood sugar during the day,” she said. “It makes it a lot easier.
In addition, she says, there are gadgets that help with almost every aspect of your health that connect directly to your smartphone.
But whether you’re buying a health device for yourself or for someone on your shopping list, experts from Consumer Reports say there are a few things to consider before you grab the first item you find.
For example, if you buy a blood pressure monitor, Consumer Reports’ Catherine Roberts says arm monitors are typically more accurate than monitors for your wrist.
But arm cuffs don’t work for everyone.
“If it’s not the right size it can really affect accuracy, so you want to make sure it’s the right size,” she warned.
According to Consumer Reports, other gifts to consider include:
- electric toothbrushes.
- dental floss.
“Water flossing is a really good option,” she said, “especially if you’re someone who isn’t motivated to floss.”
According to Consumer Reports, to stay on budget, you should find plenty of Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals on health and other fitness gadgets, such as:
- fitness tracker
- Smart Watches
- exercise equipment
- Headphones that are a great addition to any workout.
A gadget that is not the best gift
However, Roberts says one device to stay away from as a gift idea is an over-the-counter hearing aid, which was only available in October.
While they can be perfect to buy for mom or dad after Christmas, she says, “These shouldn’t surprise anyone because it takes a lot of work to understand.”
So be sure to research products for accuracy and fit, check for generous return policies, and support your local medicine store when you can.
So don’t waste your money.
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