This wearable airbag is designed to stop the elderly from breaking a hip. From Dutch startup the Wolk Company, the reusable Wolk protects the hip area when you call down by adapting airbag technology.
Wolk (which means 'cloud' in Dutch) is worn around the waist and will automatically inflate when it detects the wearer is falling. The prototype fastens like a seat belt and has a waterproof outer layer the re-usable airbag fits inside. Protecting the hips and lower back in particular, the wearable airbag has a feedback speaker and electronics to ensure a correct fit. In development since 2012, the product so far has received the support of many healthcare professionals. They work to make it as comfortable as possible and invisible to ensure wearability.
Hip-Protecting Airbags
The Wolk Wearable Airbag was Designed with Senior Citizens in Mind
Trend Themes
1. Wearable Airbag Technology - Opportunity for businesses to create innovative wearable airbags for other high-risk groups such as athletes and construction workers.
2. Smart Wearable Assistive Technology - Opportunity for businesses to create wearable devices for seniors and people with disabilities that can assist with everyday activities.
3. Healthcare Wearable Technology - Opportunity for businesses to incorporate wearable technology into healthcare to improve patient outcomes and reduce healthcare costs.
Industry Implications
1. Healthcare - The healthcare industry could benefit from implementing wearable technology to improve patient safety and well-being.
2. Technology - Wearable technology is a growing market and businesses could benefit from investing in innovation of wearable technology.
3. Consumer Goods - There is a growing demand for consumer goods that improve quality of life for seniors and people with disabilities.