If you lose your iPhone, you can simply use “Find My iPhone” to figure out where it is. One company is using the same technology to help relatives of people with Alzheimer’s, dementia, autism, or other disabilities find their loved ones if they get lost.
The company, GPS SmartSole, designed a pair of shoe insoles that contain a built-in tracking chip with a cellular signal. This tracker can be paired with a smartphone, computer, or tablet.
The company website states,
“This is wearable technology that not only provides peace of mind but can also save lives while preserving the privacy and dignity of the wearer.”
Photo Credit: GPS SmartSoleSimilar tracking devices do exist already, such as bracelets. However, those products are more visible and obvious, which can deter some patients from actually wearing them. Moreover, people with memory impairment might forget to put a bracelet on before they leave the house. Their shoes, though?
The website also says,
“This system capitalizes on procedural memory, which means even those with advanced memory disorders typically remember to wear shoes!”
These insoles are reportedly comfortable to wear despite being thicker than typical insoles. They were specifically designed for young adults and teens with autism and developmental disabilities, and seniors with Alzheimer’s and dementia.
Photo Credit: GPS SmartSole
The insoles come in three sizes: small, medium, and large. The sizes can each be trimmed to fit a wearer’s specific shoe size.
One pair of GPS SmartSoles costs $299, plus monthly service costs for the cellular data used by the chip. But the peace of mind this device may bring is priceless.
