How to Use FreeStyle Libre with Your Smartphone: A Senior’s Guide
This article provides general information about using the FreeStyle Libre with smartphones, particularly for seniors. Always consult your healthcare provider and device documentation for personalized guidance. Medicare coverage details are current as of January 2025.
Learning to use your FreeStyle Libre continuous glucose monitor with a smartphone can feel overwhelming at first. But don’t worry – this senior-friendly guide will walk you through the process step by step, making it easier to check your glucose readings right from your phone.
Getting Started with FreeStyle Libre on Your Smartphone
Before we begin, you’ll need:
- A FreeStyle Libre 2 or 3 sensor
- A compatible smartphone (iPhone 7 or newer, most Android 8.0+ phones)
- The FreeStyle LibreLink app (free to download)
Not sure if your phone will work? Call us at 727-831-3729, and we’ll help you check your phone’s compatibility.
Downloading the FreeStyle LibreLink App for Seniors
Let’s start with getting the app on your phone:
- Open the ‘App Store’ (iPhone) or ‘Google Play Store’ (Android)
- Type ‘FreeStyle LibreLink’ in the search bar
- Tap ‘Get’ or ‘Install’ (it’s free!)
- Wait for the download to complete
Ask a grandchild: If you’re having trouble finding the app store, ask a family member to help you locate it on your phone’s home screen.
Setting Up Your FreeStyle Libre Smartphone App
Once the app is installed:
- Open the LibreLink app – Look for the blue icon with a white “L”
- Select your country – Choose United States
- Create an account using your email address
- Set up your profile with basic information
Important First-Time Setup Tips
- Write down your password in a safe place
- Use an email address you check regularly
- Accept permissions when asked – the app needs these to work properly
Connecting Your Sensor to Your Phone
Step 1: Start a New Sensor
When applying a new sensor:
- Open the LibreLink app
- Tap “Start New Sensor”
- Hold your phone near the sensor (like tapping a credit card)
- Wait for the beep – this means success!
Distance matters: Hold your phone within 1-2 inches of the sensor for best results.
Step 2: Wait for Warm-Up
- New sensors need 60 minutes to activate
- Your phone will notify you when it’s ready
- You can close the app during this time
Checking Your Glucose with Your Smartphone
The Simple Scan Process
- Open the LibreLink app
- Tap “Scan Glucose”
- Hold your phone near the sensor
- View your results on the screen
What You’ll See:
- Current glucose reading
- Trend arrow showing direction
- Graph of recent readings
- Time since last meal (if you log it)
Understanding the Display
The app shows important information:
- Large number: Your current glucose level
- Arrow: Which direction your glucose is heading
- → Steady
- ↗ Rising
- ↑ Rising quickly
- ↘ Falling
- ↓ Falling quickly
Making the Text Bigger for Easier Reading
For seniors who need larger text:
On iPhone:
- Go to Settings
- Tap Display & Brightness
- Select Text Size
- Slide to make text larger
On Android:
- Go to Settings
- Tap Display
- Select Font Size
- Choose larger size
Helpful Features for Seniors
Setting Reminders
The app can remind you to:
- Check your glucose
- Take medications
- Log meals
To set reminders:
- Tap the menu (three lines)
- Select “Reminders”
- Choose what you want reminders for
- Set your preferred times
Sharing with Family
You can share your readings with loved ones:
- Go to Settings in the app
- Select Share
- Add your family member’s email
- They’ll receive invitations to view your data
Privacy note: You control what information is shared and can stop sharing anytime.
Common Problems and Solutions
“My Phone Won’t Scan”
Try these fixes:
- Remove phone case – it might block the signal
- Check Bluetooth is turned on
- Restart the app – close and reopen
- Move to different spot on sensor
“App Keeps Closing”
- Update the app through app store
- Restart your phone
- Check storage space – delete old photos if needed
“Can’t Remember Password”
- Tap “Forgot Password” on login screen
- Check your email for reset instructions
- Create a new password you’ll remember
Battery Saving Tips
Using the app regularly can drain your battery:
- Close other apps you’re not using
- Lower screen brightness
- Turn off Wi-Fi when not needed
- Charge phone overnight
Medicare Coverage for Smartphone Use
Good news! Medicare covers FreeStyle Libre whether you use:
- The reader device
- Your smartphone
- Both options
No extra cost for using the smartphone app – it’s included with your sensor coverage.
Getting Help When You Need It
FreeStyle Libre Support
- Phone: 1-855-632-8658
- Hours: 24/7 support available
- Website: FreeStyleLibre.us
Senior CGM Support Support
- Phone: 727-831-3729
- Help with: Medicare coverage questions
- Hours: Monday-Friday, 8 AM – 5 PM EST
Tips from Other Seniors
Joan, 74: “I keep the app on my home screen so I don’t have to search for it.”
Bill, 69: “My granddaughter set up shortcuts for me – now scanning is even easier!”
Martha, 71: “I love that I don’t have to carry the separate reader anymore.”
Practice Makes Perfect
Remember:
- Be patient with yourself while learning
- Practice scanning several times a day
- Ask for help when you need it
- Celebrate small victories!
Advanced Features to Explore Later
Once you’re comfortable with basics:
- Logbook: Track meals and insulin
- Reports: See patterns over time
- Notes: Add information about activities
- Alarms: Set high/low glucose alerts
Final Thoughts
Using your smartphone with FreeStyle Libre gives you:
- Convenience of one less device to carry
- Easy sharing with family
- Automatic data backup
- Clear, colorful displays
Take it one step at a time. Soon, checking your glucose on your phone will feel as natural as making a phone call.
Need Help with Medicare CGM Coverage?
Our specialists can help you navigate Medicare requirements and get the supplies you need.
Call Now: 727-831-3729
