TED #139 Podcast Extras – Vigour

Vigour is a Product Service System that enables geriatric patients, physiotherapists and family to gain more insight in the exercises and progress of a rehabilitation process. A knitted cardigan with integrated stretch sensors monitors the movements of the upper body, and communicates this data to the service provider via iPad App. More info at MARTIJN TEN BHÖMER This is wearable technology or smart textiles for Elder patients enabling PT(physiotherapist) or physical therapists to gain more insight into a patient’s exercise and progress. Good social value for communication between Elder patients and their therapists plus encourages interaction and movement. This product is aimed at Elders with Alzheimer's or Dementia. Developed as collaboration between Dutch designers Martijn ten Bhömer smart textiles and Pauline van Dongen, plus Netherlands De Wever, TU/e(Eindhoven University of Technology) with a motto of Mens agitat molem (Mind moves matter), Savo Textile-machines BV, Metatronics, TextileMuseum TextielLab and Unit040. Features: - Knitted long sleeve wool shirt cardigan. - Comes in six colors. - Integrated stretch sensors made of conductive yarn. - Can be worn all day and when executing rehabilitation exercise. - Sound or optionally also vibrate to encourage the wearer. - iPad app connectivity. - Not yet available but soon if not now. Benefits: - Considered a health and fitness product. - Gives feedback to your health care professionals. - Wearable technology for Alzheimer's or Dementia Elders. - Looks like regular clothing not a medical device. I came across this product and thought I would review it even thou it may not be available in the US or other areas outside of the EU(European Union). Other products of similar types of materials and textiles are being designed around the world. You can expect many of these to presently or soon be on the market. I would give this a 4.5 out of 5 on my buy rating only because not available everywhere yet and listed as wool material only at this time even thou sounds like a great idea to keep you warm. Some people may have sensitivities to wool. Overall this is a technology that will be showing up a lot more in health, industry and retail markets. Has great potential to improve health technology communications between family, caregivers and health professionals for better health and independent living of Elders. Look for more information and follow-up on products in this category as I will be at the Aging2.0 AgeTech Expo in November 2015 and CES(Consumer and Electronics Show)2016 in January. Welcome you to my HOME @ ElderDivide.com Email contact @ TheElderDivide@ElderDivide.info Subscribe on Android or Subscribe by Email or Subscribe on iTunes Become a Patron of The Elder Divide over @ Patreon.com/TheElderDivide .