Clairvoyant teams with AT&T on new wearable for Alzheimer’s

Data insights services company Clairvoyant Networks has teamed up with AT&T to roll out specialist healthcare wearables.

The firm has partnered with AT&T to provide the connectivity for Theora Care, a range of devices that allows carers to locate, monitor, and keep in touch with patients who face cognitive challenges.

Theora Connect is a wristwatch-style monitoring and communication device, which uses an AT&T mobile SIM to send data to a secure network. Worn by the patient, it sends carers information about their location and health, which carers can monitor via Theora Link, a smartphone application.

Other functions include: alerts when the wearer strays from ‘safe zones’ that are set up in the app; hands-free two-way audio; an SOS emergency function that goes directly to the caregiver; and alerts when the battery is low.

Clairvoyant said implementing AT&T’s Control Centre into the range means it can develop a “plug and play device” that doesn’t need to be activated by the wearer.

Transforming healthcare

Theora Care is targeted at health professionals and family members who look after people with serious conditions, such as Alzheimer’s. More than five million Americans alone are living with Alzheimer’s. By 2050, that number could reach 16 million, according to 2017 research published by the Alzheimer’s Association.

The product is also suitable for people who have dementia, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and Parkinson’s disease. Clairvoyant said its products “offer peace-of-mind to the caregiver, while helping those experiencing cognitive issues to live independently for longer”.

Although the range is still at the early ages of development, with new launches planned, Clairvoyant said the products have already proved popular with caregivers. A beta tester called Marie said: “While shopping, one of my greatest fears came true. I became separated from my husband, Bob who suffers from memory loss.

“Fortunately, I was able to use the hands-free, two-way audio feature to get the attention of a good Samaritan who was near Bob. They heard me trying to talk to Bob and helped bring him safely back to me.”

Next up for Theora Care will be sensor-driven analytics that provide insight into patient status and location. Care facilities will have access to data that “will help them remain compliant, retain employees and improve customer service”, said the company, adding that the new additions will be available in the third quarter of 2018.

Enabling independent living

Stephen Popovich, president and CEO of Clairvoyant Networks, said he understands the challenges faced by caregivers from his own experience. “I’ve witnessed relatives lose their independence as they’ve aged.” He explained that the firm is on a mission to “provide solutions that address those challenges and allow ageing with dignity”.

Of the new technology partnership, Popovich said: “We chose AT&T not only for its leadership in IoT technology, but also for its focus on innovative platforms in tele-health. This is just the beginning of situational awareness solutions that will leverage AT&T’s expertise.”

Internet of Business says

IoT in healthcare is often associated with gathering data or creating smart environments, but location-based services and simple communication functions should never be overlooked. Alongside developments in tele-health, such as the use of tele robots for remote communication and treatment, connected wearables have proven to be a real success story for the IoT so far – as the following reports reveal.