The challenge of aging: a quest for independence

Aging brings complex challenges, particularly for the elderly and vulnerable, who face a wide range of health issues that require constant attention and care.

For example, falls, which affect 28.6% of Italians over the age of 65,¹ and transient ischemic attacks (TIAs) and strokes, which are among the leading causes of death after cardiovascular diseases and cancer.² Furthermore, Parkinson‘s disease is the second most common neurodegenerative disorder after Alzheimer’s disease.^3,4

All these issues share a common denominator: the need for constant monitoring, management, and timely, if not anticipatory, interventions, which are not always possible or easy.

However, the problem is not limited to the clinical setting. Such conditions require constant support, even for the simplest daily activities. This affects the quality of life of the individual and undermines their confidence and autonomy, making them even more fragile and vulnerable, including psychologically.

This situation underscores the urgent need for advanced technological solutions capable of improving the monitoring and management of such conditions, offering the elderly greater independence and well-being.

Feature Jam: the cutting edge of home care

Feature Jam, an innovative SME, was founded precisely to improve the lives of the elderly through the use of advanced technological solutions. Its mission is to ensure dignity and independence for the elderly by revolutionizing home care without emphasizing their vulnerabilities.

The company has developed BlueJam, a wearable device that works in conjunction with advanced software. The former collects data, while the latter analyzes it using artificial intelligence.

Currently, the platform focuses on three main applications: fall risk, transient ischemic attacks (TIA) and strokes, and Parkinson’s disease.

BlueJam in fall detection and prevention

Falling poses a significant risk to the elderly, often leading to severe injuries and a fear of further incidents, which can limit their mobility and independence. Rapid intervention is crucial to prevent complications and reduce psychological trauma.

Thanks to Feature Jam’s solution, not only are falls detected promptly, allowing immediate assistance, but the risk of them occurring is also monitored over time, contributing to the implementation of targeted preventive strategies.

BlueJam in identifying TIA and stroke

Identifying transient ischemic attacks (TIA) and strokes is challenging, as their symptoms can be mistaken for other medical conditions. This difficulty, often combined with the time needed to reach adequate medical facilities, represents a significant barrier. Rapid intervention is essential to limit neurological damage.

BlueJam is capable of detecting predictive symptoms of TIA and strokes and immediately informing healthcare professionals and caregivers.

BlueJam in managing parkinson’s disease

For patients with Parkinson’s disease, regular visits to the neurologist are necessary to assess symptoms and adjust therapy. However, the daily variability of symptoms can make accurate communication difficult, complicating the setting of effective treatment.

With BlueJam, Parkinson’s symptoms are automatically and more frequently detected, eliminating the need for hospital visits. This ensures more accurate assessments and greater comfort for the patient.

State of the Art

Feature Jam has currently applied for a patent for its software platform and is concurrently obtaining medical device certification for BlueJam.

Finally, the SME is conducting advanced studies to extend the use of its solution to monitoring atrial fibrillation as well.

Our solution stands as a bulwark against the daily challenges faced by the fragile elderly. Not only do we anticipate critical events like falls and strokes, but we also provide ongoing support over time, with the care and attention of clinical staff.

Andrea Petronio, CEO Feature Jam

Bibliography

1. ISS, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, “La sorveglianza Passi d’Argento“.
2. Prevenzione ictus Italia, “Dati sull’ictus in Italia“.
3. Dire – Agenzia di Stampa Nazionale, “Parkinson: SNO, colpiti 300mila Italiani, il primo fattore di rischio è lo stress“.
4. Neuro.it, “Informazioni sulla Malattia di Parkinson“.

📗 Learn more about Feature Jam and other entities in our portfolio.