Smart Safety Measures

Smart Socks are a growing target for the wearable technology market. Separate companies recently announced product expansions for “smart” socks that are aimed at the senior market. Both products involve socks fitted with sensor systems but for differing conditions.

Palarum’s SmartSock will assist with fall-risk patients and to reduce incidents at facilities. Palarum’s sock is designed to alert staff when a patient has gotten up, not when he or she falls, the tech can prevent up to 70% of falls and reduces alarms. It was reported that Palarum’s PUP SmartSock (the acronym stands for “Patient is Up!”) will be adopted within the VA Boston Healthcare System.

Milbotix alerts nurses about a patient’s stress or anxiety levels according to their website. The Milbotix sock monitors heart rate, sweat levels and motion, whereas the company’s software uses artificial intelligence to assess distress levels and alert care staff. Milbotix has begun a pilot program for its Smartsock technology at a care home in Exeter, MA.

Both innovations may assist caregiver staff in preventing emergencies. Palarum touts its ability to significantly reduce alarm fatigue among care staff, an issue many providers are trying to address. Although some wearables can be cumbersome, the embedded tech within the socks is meant to be as unobtrusive as possible, makers say. Milbotix’ Smartsock is even machine washable, the company says.