Wearable devices are assisting the elderly as extreme heat engulfs Europe.

      As Europe swelters, a simple bracelet is aiding in the safety of Rome’s elderly.

      Smartbands and smartwatches usually evoke thoughts of devices designed to monitor health and physical activity. However, in Rome, they are being utilized to protect older citizens. The new watches are being distributed to seniors to ensure their safety during the severe heatwave affecting Europe.

      According to Reuters, the city has implemented electronic bracelets as part of a €400 million initiative to assist older residents. This program, supported by EU post-COVID funding, currently serves around 700 individuals.

      One participant is 85-year-old Dina Gazzella, a widow residing alone in eastern Rome. Her bracelet tracks her heart rate and sleep patterns, monitors her movement both inside and outside her home, detects falls, and allows her to call for help during emergencies.

      Extreme temperatures pose a significant risk to older adults, particularly those living alone. With temperatures in Rome rising into the upper 30s Celsius amid the ongoing heatwave, clinical psychologist Piera Pomente emphasized the importance of the bracelet as older individuals may experience lower blood pressure, reduced heart rate, and heat-related strain.

      The device functions like a watch but is integrated into a broader support system. During the day, social workers review the data and contact users to check on their medication adherence, how they are managing the heat, or if they simply need someone to talk to. Thus, the device not only serves a safety function but also promotes wellbeing by helping to reduce loneliness.

      Pomente’s team operates from Monday to Friday, 8:30 am to 7 pm. During nights and weekends, relatives are alerted via a mobile app. Over the past year, the system has successfully handled two emergencies, including one involving a man who fell in the street and another case where a wheelchair user encountered difficulties at home. The bracelet is provided at no cost, although some individuals have opted out due to privacy concerns.

      Monitoring health is a delicate issue, especially concerning movement data, making such worries understandable.