Dorset dementia patients trialling 'smart socks' to help with care
The track people's vital signs so carers can intervene if needed
Dorset dementia patients are being given 'smart socks' to help with their ongoing care.
The garments are being trialled by Council-run service Our Dorset - tracking people's heart rate, sweat levels, temperature and motion so carers can step in before potential issues escalate.
It's thought the familiar design of a sock will increase acceptance by patients to be checked over regularly.
Patients, including those with autism, might find other wearable tracking devices complex, uncomfortable or stigmatising.
Dorset Council is one of a handful of local authorities piloting the smart socks in care homes, for company Milbotix, who developed the idea.
Cllr Jane Somper, Portfolio lead member for Adult Social Care, Health and Housing, said there was considerable potential for the assisted technology to help both carers intervene at an early stage to prevent people becoming distressed but also to provide greater dignity for residents:
“Smart Socks can help enable people living with dementia or other conditions to retain their independence and have better day to day quality of life.”
Dr Zeke Steer, Milbotix founder, said the company was delighted to be working with the Dorset Integrated Care System (ICS):
“Partnering with forward thinking organisations like Dorset Council means we can hear the expert voices of people providing and receiving care.
“We are committed to building a product that genuinely help carers and improves wearers’ overall wellbeing.”