Device tracks location of those at risk

DJ TURNED entrepreneur Adrian McGibbon has created a simple tracking device for vulnerable elderly people that can be controlled through texting.

The Swish GPS Tracker is a small device that can be clipped to an individual’s belt and is aimed at those who wish to monitor the whereabouts either of elderly relatives or of children with special needs, says McGibbon.

“It’s a safety tool designed to help people in a vulnerable scenario,” he explains. “Not everyone can afford home help and also, where possible, senior citizens would like to retain independence.”

Using off-the-shelf GPS technology and free satellite tracking, the Swish device can relay the co-ordinates of a person’s location within half a metre, or send a notification should the device leave the confines of an invisible boundary, which can be set by the end user. The information is texted to the mobiles of those entrusted with control of the device. “My customer base varies but for the most part it’s a family decision made on behalf of the individual. Primarily it’s a device for people suffering from Alzheimer’s or dementia but also for those with Down Syndrome or autism.

“Those concerned about their elderly grandmother could set the unit to text everyone in the family if, for example, she leaves the ‘geo-fence’ set around her house.”

The unit uses nine satellites to automatically send and receive accurate GPS positioning, and does not require a subscription or any updates. In order to make it as user-friendly as possible, says McGibbon, the device is paid for up front, with no monitoring fees or contract.

There is no software or web interface; the end user interacts with the device through their mobile phone. There are 13 functions that can be programmed and accessed by ringing or sending a text message to the unit.

“It also turns into a monitor. If you’re worried for the individual’s safety you can ring the device and receive digital audio; essentially you’re listening in on what’s going on,” explains McGibbon.

The device communicates both ways but uses a small amount of bandwidth, which is seen as non-voice data so calls are free.