GPS-fitted shoe helps track Alzheimer's patients

(Credit: GTX)

GPS-equipped footwear isn't new. But the idea of using it to track Alzheimer's patients, which shoemaker Aetrex Worldwide and GPS experts GTX are making possible, is just great.

It will be even better if an affordable version of the service can be extended to home users. Remembering how hapless a friend felt when her granddad, who was afflicted with dementia, disappeared one day, this would have saved her all that mental anguish. The entire family had been marshaled to help in the search, and it was a day later, when they were imagining the worst, that a stranger called to say he had found her grandfather wandering aimlessly. Now that her father faces the same fate, this would certainly lessen her burden as a caregiver.

The GPS transmitters have an accuracy range of 30 feet and "geo fences" can be set so that as soon as the patient leaves a predetermined zone, a Google Map alert is sent to a cell phone, home, or office computer to locate the patient.

(Source: Crave Asia via Physorg)

[BadMister]

This is absolutely a "why-didn't-we-think-of-this-sooner" idea, however barring home-care helping patients get dressed in the morning - and by no means to make light of a serious illness - what happens when they forget to put their shoes on? Many a Alzheimer's and dementia patient have turned up in their pajamas or whatnot, sans fotowear.

[ChrlsHrdy]

Another problem I see with these shoes is the problem my Alzheimer's afflicted father has. He has totaly lost the ability to tie his shoes. All his shoes are now either slip on or velcro. (Un)Fortunately for us, he resides in a wonderful lock down Alzheimer's and dementia care facility.

[sodakar]

It would be even smarter if it could be powered via a rechargeable source plus foot-pressure power. The original article makes no mention of the power source, and the sample image makes it seem like the GPS module is in the arch area, with no hint of a power source.

[jsbock]

Because of the rising incidence of Alzheimer?s, it?s good to see other products enter the market that are designed to help protect people from the life-threatening behavior of wandering. In February, LoJack introduced the LoJack SafetyNet System that incorporates a wristband worn by the person at risk that constantly emits a Radio Frequency signal, which can be tracked regardless of where the person has wandered ? even into a densely wooded area, a body of water, a concrete structure, or a building constructed with steel. Working with Project Lifesaver International, LoJack SafetyNet is directly integrated with law enforcement and its technology enables police to pinpoint the precise location of the missing person.

[jsbock]

Because of the rising incidence of Alzheimer?s, it?s good to see other products enter the market that are designed to help protect people from the life-threatening behavior of wandering. In February, LoJack introduced the LoJack SafetyNet System that incorporates a wristband worn by the person at risk that constantly emits a Radio Frequency signal, which can be tracked regardless of where the person has wandered ? even into a densely wooded area, a body of water, a concrete structure, or a building constructed with steel. Working with Project Lifesaver International, LoJack SafetyNet is directly integrated with law enforcement and its technology enables police to pinpoint the precise location of the missing person.

[KnowItAlz]

My name is Kathy and I am 39. I am the full time caregiver to my Dad who has Alzheimer's and lives with me.

In addition to caring for Dad, I have a full time job, 3 dogs, my love of 12 years David and his 14 year old daughter. I get overwhelmed a lot but try to find the humor if I can.

I am writing a blog which shows the lighter side of caring for someone with dementia.

www.KnowItAlz.com

Please pass this link along to anyone you feel would enjoy it.

Thanks!
Kathy