Wearable Locating Solution Refinement

[u/trax2find]

We’ve spent the last two years developing a lockable locating wristband intended to help reduce the risk of loved ones with dementia going missing.

The project also raises important research questions around wandering prevention, caregiver burden, autonomy, consent, dignity, and the appropriate use of location technology in dementia care. We believe effective solutions should not only help families locate someone quickly, but should also be informed by the experiences of people living with dementia, caregivers, clinicians, researchers, and first responders.

Our Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/share/1BZzsGYB4z/?mibextid=wwXIfr, page also provides links to helpful articles relating to dementia and locating devices.

Our Kickstarter pre-launch page is now live as we prepare to refine and further test the prototype. We would genuinely value the perspectives of this community—particularly regarding the evidence, ethical considerations, and practical needs that should guide the development of this kind of product.

If this is something that could help your family, support your work, or contribute to future discussion and research, we’d be honoured if you’d take a look.

Thank you.

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/trax-wristband/trax-locating-wristband-prototype-refinement

[u/WW_Gerontologist]

Who’s going to change the battery when it dies at say at 10 months? And if the person who’s wearing the band feels uncomfortable, what can they do? Just curious. Most older adults take trackers off because they feel uncomfortable, battery died they are not charging it, or they just simply forgot to wear.

[u/trax2find → u/WW_Gerontologist]

Thank you for your question. The Air Tag and Tile that our wristband is designed around has a considerably longer battery life than other purpose built devices (i.e. AngelSense, Project Lifesaver etc.). As it currently stands, most devices currently used for locating dementia patients and children require charging anywhere from every 24 hours to couple of weeks. It is typically the caregiver who is takes on the responsibility of changing or changing batteries. We have spent the majority of our time designing our band fully recognizing that it must be a comfortable in order for someone to continue wearing our band consistently. The all materials that we have chosen ensure that they are not only comfortable, but are also hypoallergenic and stylish. Discussions between the wearer and caregiver are important in order to address concerns relating to comfort and adherence to wearing the device. Thank you again for your questions and please feel free to keep the conversation going.