SmartSocks®COMFORT
)
)
)
)
SmartSocks® COMFORT is an emotional distress alert system designed to be used at home and in residential care. Developed with support from Alzheimer’s Society, the UK’s leading dementia charity, COMFORT alerts carers, friends or family when changes in physiological data suggest that a person might be emotionally distressed.
Many people diagnosed with a neurological disorder find it difficult to effectively communicate their needs for support or assistance. This frequently results in episodes of anxiety, frustration, or aggression directed towards self, family members, care home residents or staff.
Wearable devices can detect subtle physiological changes that occur when an individual is emotionally distressed. However, devices worn on the wrist can cause irritation and are often fidgeted with and removed leading to loss or damage. These devices usually have complex touchscreen interfaces which present accessibility issues for individuals who are cognitively impaired.
Looking and feeling like regular socks, SmartSocks® COMFORT is designed to fit into an individual’s daily life without drawing unwanted attention or requiring significant behaviour change. The socks continuously monitor vital signs and gait, alerting carers to signs of emotional distress before behaviour escalates.