FreeStyle Libre Reader vs App: Which is Better for Seniors?

This article provides general information about CGM phone apps comparison and is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider about your specific needs.

Choosing the right CGM (Continuous Glucose Monitor) phone app can feel overwhelming, especially with so many options available. Our comprehensive CGM phone apps comparison will help you find the perfect match for your needs, whether you’re tech-savvy or just getting started with smartphones.

Understanding CGM Phone Apps Comparison: The Basics

A CGM phone app works like a friendly assistant, showing your blood sugar readings right on your smartphone. Think of it as having a helpful grandchild watching your numbers 24/7.

What you’ll get with a CGM phone app:

• Easy-to-read blood sugar numbers
• Helpful alerts when levels are too high or low
• Simple ways to share readings with family and doctors
• Clear patterns of how food and activity affect you

Phone App vs. Dedicated Reader

Phone Apps:

• Use device you already carry
• Larger screens available
• Share data easily
• Free to download

Dedicated Readers:

• Single purpose device
• Always ready to use
• No phone required
• Simpler interface

Popular CGM Apps: A Senior-Friendly Comparison

Dexcom G6/G7 App

Best for: Seniors who want a straightforward, reliable experience

• Large, clear numbers
• Simple color coding (red=low, yellow=high)
• Easy to share with family members
• Works with both iPhone and Android

💡 Ask a grandchild to help you set up alerts with sounds you can easily hear.

Pros:

• No scanning required
• Automatic readings
• Excellent alerts
• Family sharing built-in

Cons:

• Uses phone battery
• Requires newer phone
• More complex setup
• Bluetooth must stay on

FreeStyle Libre App

Best for: Budget-conscious seniors who prefer simplicity

• No manual calibration needed
• Clear graphs showing 8-hour history
• Medicare-friendly option
• Gentle learning curve

Pros:

• Simple scanning motion
• Works with older phones
• Less battery drain
• Intuitive interface

Cons:

• Must remember to scan
• Limited automatic features
• Basic sharing options
• Fewer customizations

Medtronic Guardian Connect App

Best for: Seniors already using Medtronic products

• Integrates with pumps
• Predictive alerts
• Detailed reports
• Professional design

Pros:

• Advanced predictions
• Pump compatibility
• Comprehensive data
• Strong support

Cons:

• Steeper learning curve
• More calibrations needed
• Complex interface
• Requires training

Making Your CGM App Work for You

Let’s walk through setting up your app, step by step:

1. Download the app (we’ll help you find it in the store)
2. Create your account (keep your password somewhere safe)
3. Connect your CGM device (we’ll show you how)
4. Set up your alerts (we’ll recommend the best settings)

Medicare Coverage Update: Most CGM apps are free to download, and Medicare covers the sensors and transmitters when prescribed by your doctor.

Step-by-Step Setup Guide

For iPhone Users:

1. Open App Store (blue icon with “A”)
2. Tap Search (magnifying glass)
3. Type your CGM name
4. Tap “Get” or cloud icon
5. Enter Apple ID password
6. Wait for download
7. Open app

For Android Users:

1. Open Play Store (colorful triangle)
2. Tap search bar
3. Type CGM app name
4. Tap “Install”
5. Accept permissions
6. Wait for download
7. Open app

Comparing Key Features

Display and Readability

Dexcom:

• Largest number display
• High contrast options
• Landscape mode available
• Customizable colors

FreeStyle Libre:

• Clean, simple layout
• Good default sizing
• Clear trend arrows
• Easy navigation

Guardian Connect:

• Professional appearance
• Detailed information
• Multiple view options
• Data-rich displays

Alert Systems

Dexcom:

• Loudest alerts
• Multiple sound options
• Vibration patterns
• Repeat options

FreeStyle Libre 2/3:

• Optional alarms
• Simple on/off
• Basic sounds
• Quiet hours

Guardian Connect:

• Predictive warnings
• Complex settings
• Custom thresholds
• Smart alerts

Data Sharing Capabilities

Dexcom (Best Overall):

• Up to 10 followers
• Real-time sharing
• Custom permissions
• Easy setup

FreeStyle Libre:

• LibreLinkUp sharing
• Basic features
• Manual updates
• Simple interface

Guardian Connect:

• CareLink integration
• Professional reports
• Complex sharing
• Clinical focus

Troubleshooting Common App Issues

Don’t worry if things aren’t perfect right away. Here are solutions to common challenges:

When Your App Won’t Connect

• Check your Bluetooth is turned on
• Make sure your phone is within 20 feet of your sensor
• Try closing and reopening the app
• Restart your phone

Need help? Call our senior-friendly support line at 727-831-3729. We’ll walk you through it!

Common Problems and Solutions

“App Keeps Closing”

• Update the app
• Clear app cache
• Check phone storage
• Restart device

“Can’t See Numbers Clearly”

• Increase phone brightness
• Use reading glasses
• Enable zoom features
• Try landscape mode

“Alerts Too Quiet”

• Check phone volume
• Verify app permissions
• Test different sounds
• Use external speaker

“Battery Drains Fast”

• Close other apps
• Lower screen brightness
• Check Bluetooth settings
• Consider power bank

Sharing Your CGM Data with Family

Many seniors find comfort in sharing their readings with family members. Here’s how to set up sharing safely:

1. Open your app’s sharing settings
2. Enter your family member’s email
3. Choose what information to share
4. Send the invitation

App-Specific Sharing Instructions

Dexcom Share:

1. Tap share icon
2. Add new follower
3. Enter their info
4. Set permissions
5. Send invite

LibreLinkUp:

1. Go to settings
2. Find connections
3. Add caregiver
4. Generate code
5. Share code

CareLink:

1. Access reports
2. Create account
3. Invite provider
4. Set access
5. Confirm sharing

Making the Most of Your CGM Phone App Comparison

Once you’re comfortable with the basics, try these helpful features:

• Setting meal markers to track food effects
• Using the logbook to spot patterns
• Creating reports for doctor visits
• Setting personalized target ranges

Advanced Features by App

Dexcom Clarity:

• Pattern insights
• Time in range goals
• AGP reports
• Overlay comparisons

FreeStyle Libre Reports:

• Daily patterns
• Monthly summary
• Logbook notes
• Simple graphs

Guardian Reports:

• Detailed analytics
• Pump coordination
• Therapy insights
• Clinical data

Choosing the Right App for You

Consider These Factors:

Your Tech Comfort:

• Beginner: FreeStyle Libre
• Intermediate: Dexcom
• Advanced: Guardian

Your Vision:

• Best display: Dexcom
• Simplest: FreeStyle Libre
• Most options: Guardian

Your Lifestyle:

• Active: Dexcom (automatic)
• Routine-based: Libre (scanning)
• Data-focused: Guardian

Your Support System:

• Family sharing: Dexcom
• Independent: Libre
• Clinical team: Guardian

Phone Requirements

Minimum Specifications:

iPhone:

• iOS 12 or higher
• iPhone 7 or newer
• 2GB storage free
• Bluetooth 4.0

Android:

• Android 7 or higher
• 2GB RAM minimum
• 1GB storage free
• Bluetooth LE

Recommended Phones for Seniors:

iPhone:

• iPhone SE (affordable)
• iPhone 13 (balance)
• iPhone 15 Plus (large screen)

Android:

• Samsung A-series
• Google Pixel 6a
• Motorola G series

Setting Up for Success

Initial Configuration:

Week 1: Basics

• Install app
• Create account
• Connect device
• Test scanning/reading

Week 2: Customization

• Adjust alerts
• Set targets
• Add notes
• Try sharing

Week 3: Advanced

• Review reports
• Spot patterns
• Share with doctor
• Optimize settings

Creating Your Routine

Morning:

• Check overnight summary
• Scan if using Libre
• Note breakfast impact
• Plan activities

Afternoon:

• Monitor trends
• Check before driving
• Track exercise effects
• Stay hydrated

Evening:

• Review daily patterns
• Set overnight alerts
• Charge phone
• Prepare for tomorrow

Getting Help

Manufacturer Support:

Dexcom:

• 1-888-738-3646
• 24/7 technical support
• Online chat available
• Video tutorials

Abbott (FreeStyle Libre):

• 1-855-632-8658
• Business hours support
• Email assistance
• Training videos

Medtronic:

• 1-800-646-4633
• Dedicated app support
• Online resources
• Local training

Additional Resources:

• YouTube tutorials
• Facebook groups
• Local classes
• Diabetes educators

Security and Privacy

Protecting Your Data:

Account Security:

• Strong passwords
• Two-factor authentication
• Regular updates
• Secure sharing

Privacy Settings:

• Control who sees data
• Limit permissions
• Review access regularly
• Understand policies

Comparing Costs

App Costs:

• All apps: Free download
• Premium features: Varies
• Data usage: Minimal
• Battery impact: Moderate

Overall Value:

• Dexcom: Best features
• Libre: Best value
• Guardian: Best integration

Success Tips from Seniors

Mary, 72: “I started with the reader but love the phone app now. My granddaughter set it up, and the big numbers are perfect for my eyes.”

Robert, 68: “The Dexcom app alerts saved me from several nighttime lows. Worth learning the technology!”

Helen, 75: “I use both the Libre reader and app. Reader for quick checks, app for sharing with my daughter.”

Making Your Decision

Start Here:

1. Assess your needs
2. Consider your phone
3. Think about support
4. Try one month
5. Adjust as needed

Remember:

• No choice is permanent
• Start simple
• Add features gradually
• Ask for help

The Bottom Line

Remember: You don’t need to learn everything at once. Start with the basics and add features as you feel comfortable.

Choosing between CGM phone apps doesn’t have to be stressful. Each app has strengths, and the best choice is the one you’ll actually use. Whether you prefer Dexcom’s comprehensive features, FreeStyle Libre’s simplicity, or Guardian’s integration, the important thing is staying connected to your glucose data.

Need more help choosing or using your CGM app? Our friendly support team is here for you at 727-831-3729.

Last updated: January 2025