A new AI wearable tech innovation that tracks people’s vital signs could revolutionise dementia and autism care.

The Milbotix SmartSocks, which help sense when people living with dementia or autism are in distress, are being trialled by Dorset Integrated Care System.

Cllr Jane Somper, Portfolio lead member for adult social care, health and housing, said there was considerable potential for the assisted technology to help both carers intervene at an early stage to prevent people becoming distressed but also to provide greater dignity for residents.

“Smart socks can help enable people living with dementia or other conditions to retain their independence and have better day to day quality of life,” she said.

The socks, which track heart rate, sweat, temperature and motion, aim to enable those caring for people to intervene before issues escalate.

The familiar design of the product is intended to increase acceptance for people who may find using wearables overly complex, uncomfortable and/or stigmatising. The socks can be used in care homes and people’s own homes to help them live independently for longer. They look and feel like normal socks, are machine washable and have received positive reviews in early testing.

Dorset Council is one of a handful of local authorities that will pilot the smart socks in care homes, where AI-driven data can give carers vital early warnings before falls and allow them to intervene before anxiety escalates.

Dr Zeke Steer, Milbotix founder, said the company was delighted to be working with the Dorset Integrated Care System, commenting: “Partnering with forward thinking organisations like Dorset Council means we can hear the expert voices of people providing and receiving care.

“We are committed to building a product that genuinely help carers and improves wearers’ overall wellbeing.”