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ADVANCE Perspective: LTC

Can GPS Technology Help Track Wandering Seniors?

Published June 8, 2009 8:39 AM by Liz Rosto

I recently saw this interesting news brief about a shoemaker and a technology company teaming up to develop footwear with a built-in GPS device that could be used to track down wandering seniors.

The developers of the project claim that the technology will provide the location of the individual wearing the shoes within 30 feet, anywhere on the planet.

Most LTC residents already have some type of wander monitoring device on their body, such as a bracelet or lanyard. For people with Alzheimer's living at home, this type of tracking technology could be very useful. But, I am still not sure this isn't just another marketing gimmick.

What do you think?

posted by Liz Rosto
tags: ,

2 comments

I like the innovative spirit, but have to agree that a shoe is easy enough to remove.

Adkins-Ali Carrie September 11, 2009 12:38 PM

I have not completely read into this new idea of a GPS toting shoe, but I cannot help to think that it is a gimmick.  As long as there is someone available at every moment to ensure that the patient is going to keep the shoe on, maybe it would work.  I think you'd have a good chance of only finding the shoe, and not the person.  The idea does give me a good giggle though.

Nichole Bernard, Long Term Care - CTRS June 11, 2009 10:40 AM

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