GPS shoes for Alzheimer’s sufferers

November 16, 2011 by Stephen Johnston

Springwise reports on what could be a useful gadget for those worried about Alzheimer’s patients wandering off – shoes that track. This was initially designed for kids, but they focused on the senior population as it was less problematic from a privacy perspective. Interesting that this was another idea from Japan – importing Japanese gadgets is probably one of the best ways to make money in the senior space in the near future.

From the report:

Inspired by a high profile missing child case in the US, Patrick Bertagna, Chief Executive of GTX Corp, created the shoe originally as a means of locating children easily and conveniently. The idea evolved when it became apparent that tracking devices typically used to locate people with Alzheimer’s were being rejected by the wearers, usually because they did not recognize or were suspicious of them. GTX Corp have partnered with footwear company Aetrex to create shoes that will allow for a small tracking device to be placed inside a cavity within the mid sole. Family members and carers can monitor the wearer on an interactive map, viewed via their smart phone or computer. There is also the option to programme “safe” areas, with a text being sent to a family member or carer if the wearer crosses this boundary. The shoe comes in a range of styles, will cost between USD 200 and USD 300, and is designed to last between one to three years.