People with ADD/ADHD often misplace items due to challenges with object permanence, inattention, and executive function. Trackers can be a game-changer for keeping track of important belongings.
In my article, “Ideas to Find Your Stuff Back” I review common things misplaced by our unfocused brains and novel ways to find them back.
One of the ideas mentioned was using electronic devices. It was such a useful idea that I wanted to expand on that topic.
Table of Contents
- Trackers can save you hours of time
- Things to consider when buying a tracker
- Concerns when using trackers
- Tracker products
- Conclusion
Trackers can save you hours of time
One common example is using a Tile tracker to find lost keys. A Tile tracker is a small, Bluetooth-enabled device that you attach to items you frequently lose, like keys, wallets, or bags.
Imagine misplacing your keys and trying to find them somewhere in your house. Instead of searching frantically, open the Tile app on your phone, and it will show the last known location of the keys. Don’t be surprised when you find them buried under a pile of laundry!
People with ADD/ADHD often misplace everyday items due to inattention, forgetfulness, and disorganization. Some commonly lost items include:
- Keys – Frequently set down in random places without thinking.
- Wallets & Purses – Left in different bags, pockets, or forgotten at checkout counters.
- Phones – Misplaced around the house or left in unusual spots.
- Glasses – Taken off and forgotten, especially when switching tasks.
- Remote Controls – Buried under blankets, left in different rooms, or placed in odd locations.
- Important Papers – Bills, receipts, or documents often get lost in clutter.
- Medication – Forgetting where pills were placed or missing doses due to inconsistent routines.
- Headphones & Earbuds – Left in pockets, bags, or different rooms.
- Umbrellas – Forgotten in restaurants, stores, or public transport.
- Chargers & Cables – Left plugged in different outlets or misplaced in bags.
This list might get you thinking that electronic trackers are not such a bad idea!
Things to consider when buying a tracker
When buying a tracker, consider the following factors to ensure it meets your needs:
- Purpose: Are you tracking keys, pets, vehicles, or valuables? Different trackers specialize in different uses.
- Tracking Method: Choose between Bluetooth trackers (short-range, ideal for finding lost items nearby) and GPS trackers (long-range, useful for vehicles or pets).
- Battery Life: Some trackers last months, while others need frequent charging. Consider how often you want to replace or recharge the battery.
- Real-Time vs. Passive Tracking: Real-time trackers provide live updates, while passive trackers store location history for later review.
- Subscription Fees: GPS trackers often require a monthly fee for real-time tracking services.
- Durability & Waterproofing: If using outdoors or for pets, ensure the tracker can withstand weather conditions.
- Size & Attachment: Make sure the tracker is small enough to fit on your item and has a secure attachment method.
- Geofencing & Alerts: Some trackers allow you to set boundaries and receive alerts if the item moves outside a designated area.
- Mobile App Compatibility: Ensure the tracker works with your phone and has an easy-to-use app.
Concerns when using trackers
There are several concerns to consider when using trackers, including privacy, security, accuracy, and cost. Here are some key issues:
- Privacy Risks: Trackers collect location data, which can be accessed by third parties or misused if not properly secured. Some devices share data with advertisers or other organizations.
- Security Vulnerabilities: GPS and Bluetooth trackers can be hacked, potentially exposing sensitive information or allowing unauthorized tracking.
- Accuracy Issues: GPS signals can be affected by tall buildings, weather conditions, or weak cellular signals, leading to inaccurate tracking.
- Over-Reliance on Technology: Depending too much on trackers can reduce problem-solving skills and awareness of surroundings.
Tracker products
Here are some useful electronic gadgets designed to help people find lost items:
1. Bluetooth Trackers
- Apple AirTag – Works with the Find My app to track lost items
- Tile Tracker – Comes in different sizes for keys, wallets, and bags
- Chipolo One – A loud-ringing Bluetooth tracker with smartphone integration
2. GPS Tracking Devices
- Jiobit Smart Tag – Used for tracking kids, pets, or valuable items
- SpyTec GL300 GPS Tracker – Great for tracking cars or bags
- Samsung SmartTag+ – Uses both Bluetooth and UWB for precise locating
3. Smart Key Finders
- KeySmart Pro with Tile – A smart key holder with a built-in Tile tracker
- Esky Wireless Key Finder – Comes with multiple receivers to find multiple lost keys
4. Smartphone & Smartwatch Features
- Find My iPhone / Find My Device – Built-in phone-locating features
- Samsung Galaxy SmartThings Find – Helps locate lost Galaxy devices and SmartTags
- Apple Watch Ping Feature – Sends an alert sound to a misplaced iPhone
5. RFID & Radio Frequency Trackers
- Loc8tor Lite – Uses radio waves for precise object tracking
- Tile Sticker – A small adhesive tracker for sticking onto gadgets
6. Smart Home Assistants
- Amazon Echo & Alexa – Can locate Tile trackers with voice commands
- Google Nest Hub – Works with tracking devices for lost item alerts
Conclusion
I am sure you will find many uses for a tracker in your life. For people like us who struggle with remembering where we set something down, it can be a godsend!
For other novel ways to find missing things back, visit “Ideas to Find Your Stuff Back”
