Neurological diseases can be very challenging to manage, both physically and emotionally. There are a variety of devices that can help patients with neurological conditions improve their quality of life by providing them with alerts and reminders, improving communication between patients and caregivers, and tracking patient data. In this article, we will explore some of the benefits that wearable devices offer patients with neurological conditions.
What are wearable devices?
Wearable devices can be a huge boon to patients with neurological conditions, as they allow for the monitoring and correction of various symptoms. For adults, wearable devices can help with activities of daily living, such as Managing medication levels or tracking sleep habits. In children, wearable devices can provide information regarding seizures and other abnormal brain activity.
When it comes to neurological conditions, there is always room for improvement. By using wearable devices, patients can stay track of their health in an easy-to-understand way. Additionally, these devices can provide immediate feedback when something goes wrong, allowing for quicker diagnosis and treatment. Finally, a wearable for neurological conditions can act as a constant support system for patients throughout their journey to recovery.
Types of wearable devices
Many types of wearable devices can be beneficial for patients with neurological conditions. These devices can help with mobility, independence, and communication. They can also provide therapeutic benefits, such as reducing anxiety or improving sleep quality. Here are some of the most common types of wearable devices used in neurology:
- Assistive technology devices: These include wheelchairs, scooters, and walkers. They can help people who have difficulty walking or moving around become more mobile and independent.
- Communication tools: Wearable devices that allow people to communicate effectively include bracelets that relay speech and other signals between persons with spinal cord injuries and caregivers, Braille displays and transcription services for those who are blind or have low vision, and smartphone apps that communicate through messaging or voice calls.
- Therapeutic aids: Many wearable devices function as therapeutic aids to improve various conditions related to neurologic rehabilitation such as muscle strength and endurance, balance, concentration, pain management, range of motion exercises, coordination training, functional exercises, stress relief activities, etc.
Applications for wearable devices
Wearable devices are becoming increasingly popular among patients with neurological conditions. For example, wearables can be used to monitor mood and stress levels, track activities and sleep patterns, and provide navigation assistance.
Some wearable devices are designed specifically for patients with neurological conditions. For instance, Mylo operates as a companion device that monitors an individual’s activity and sleep patterns. The app also provides feedback on how current behaviors impact overall health. Mylo was designed with people with Parkinson’s disease in mind, but the app can be adapted for other neurological conditions.
Physicians are also starting to use wearables to monitor patients’ health in unique ways. For example, the Cleveland Clinic has developed a wristwatch-like device that continuously monitors brain waves80. The watch can detect when a person is experiencing a seizure or has another serious medical event, and sends alerts to nearby emergency responders. This type of monitoring could help save lives by rapidly responding to emergencies.
While there are many potential benefits to using wearable devices in patient care, there are still some challenges to overcome. First, healthcare providers need to learn how to best integrate these devices into their practices. Second, there is currently limited guidance on which wearable devices are appropriate for particular populations of patients. And finally, insurers may not cover the costs associated with these devices unless they meet specific criteria81. These challenges will ultimately be overcome as more research is conducted into how wearables can benefit patients with neurological conditions.
Benefits of wearable devices for neurological conditions
Wearable devices can provide valuable benefits to patients with neurological conditions. These devices can provide real-time feedback on cognitive and physical activity, track health data, monitor medication compliance, and more. Device manufacturers are constantly working to develop new features that can enhance the quality of life for those living with neurological conditions.
One of the most common uses for wearable devices is monitoring physical activity and tracking progress over time. Patients with neurodegenerative diseases or Parkinson’s disease often experience a decline in their physical abilities, so monitoring progress can be critical for managing care. Other users find value in using wearable devices to manage their condition by tracking mood, sleep quality, and other symptoms.
Device manufacturers have also developed tools that help clinicians manage patient populations more effectively. For example, device makers have created applications that allow clinicians to remotely monitor patients with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia. This information can be used to ensure safety and provide appropriate care plans.
On the cognitive side of things, wearable devices can help identify complications early and diagnose brain tumors. By collecting data from dozens of sensors simultaneously, wearables uniquely position them to become valuable tools for neurologists and researchers alike.
Conclusion
Wearable devices can provide many benefits for patients with neurological conditions, such as improved communication and autonomy. When used in concert with other therapies and support systems, wearable devices can help to improve the overall quality of life for those living with neurologic conditions.
