Senior alert: "Smart shoe" may prevent falls

The underlying technology for the smart shoe was developed by 24Eight, which also created the footpad used in the popular game “Dance Dance Fever.” Miller’s shoe includes a collection of pressure sensors to monitor balance and acceleration. When the sensors detect movements that could indicate an impending loss of balance, an electronic signal is sent to the caregiver or patient.

Miller sees his product as part of a new generation of medical devices that can monitor a range of health conditions, including blood-glucose levels, heart rate and blood pressure. “This is the leading edge of healthcare technology,” he said. “Once this becomes accepted, it creates a degree of comfort, a sort of mobility solution that can be done without thought. It becomes chic.”