Table 1.
GPS Tracking Options Available to Service Users During the Study.
| Device | Description |
|---|---|
| BuddiTM | GPS tracking and geofence functionality, fall detection, velocity sensor (e.g., detects movement in vehicle), and SOS button. Alerts raised through 24/7 monitoring center, with digital map access for carers. Device provided with a lanyard. Battery power lasts approx. 48 hr. During the study, company decided to stop production of this model and update to the new model (Buddi ClipTM, below). |
| Buddi ClipTM | GPS tracking device with geofence functionality and SOS button and two-way audio communication. Designed to clip onto clothing or lanyard. Includes additional wristband with falls detection. Alerts raised through 24/7 monitoring center, with digital map access for carers. Battery lasts approx. 48 hr and charged on central hub. The charging hub includes radio frequency beacon design to detect when the device is in the home. |
| Vega GPS WatchTM | GPS tracking device with geofence functionality and SOS button and two-way audio communication. Alerts raised through 24/7 monitoring center, with digital map access for carers. Designed to have the appearance of a digital watch. It also has a stationary charging hub, with radio frequency detection of the device in the home. Includes portable battery to charge the device while worn on the wrist. The strap can be locked onto the wrist. |
| Oysta Pearl+ MobileTM | A basic mobile phone, with four speed dial buttons, SOS button and GPS tracking with geofence functions, fall detection, and nonmovement alerts. Can be provided stand-alone or through a 24/7 monitoring center. Includes additional mobile phone features, including calls, messaging, clock, and reminders. Battery lasts approx. 48 hr. |
| MindmeTM | GPS tracking with geofence functionality, with alerts raised through 24/7 monitoring center, with digital map access. Option of SOS button or reduced functionality, having no SOS button. Slightly smaller and lighter than the other devices, and appearance of a key ring. Battery lasts approx. 48 hr and charged on a docking stations, with automatic emails when battery power is low. |
| GPS SmartSoleTM | GPS device incorporated into a shoe insole, which can be placed in the shoe of the user. Includes GPS tracking and geofence functionality, with the option of stand-alone of 24/7 monitoring, with digital map access for carers. The insole is designed to be cut to the shoe size and inserted into the shoe. Battery lasts approx. 48 hr, insole must be removed from the shoe for charging. |
Note. GPS = global positioning system.