GTX Group in California has specialized in the GPS by inserting them into high performance shoes and has broadened its market to include loafers and sandals.
An article from the Society of Certified Senior Advisers (CSA) touts GTX's GPS shoe as an aid to track seniors with Alzheimer's who have a tendency to wander.
Alzheimer's sufferers can be in danger of dehydration, falling or becoming seriously injured. The GPS technology fits into the shoe's heel and works in tandem with a downloadable app from a computer or smart phone. It can be connected with a tracking service for a monthly fee.
The CSA article quoted Andrew Carle, director of George Mason University's Program in Senior Housing Administration and advisor to GTX Group: "The GPS Shoe has the potential to be life-saving as well as life-changing technology for those afflicted and their caregivers."
Carle also said: "The shoes also hold the potential to save governments hundreds of millions of dollars in search and rescue operations, as well as in health care costs for those otherwise injured."
GPS devices have been inserted inside watches or bracelets. But people may forget to put them on before leaving the house. Shoes are a necessity. Most people remember to put on their shoes on before going outside. People who wanders are more likely to be wearing a GPS device and would be locatable.
GPS devices are excellent for supervision by caregivers and by staff in Alzheimers Care and Nursing Care residences.