California-based Can Mobilities has emerged from stealth with a smart cane that it believes can transform human mobility.

The Can Go is a smart cane with web and mobile interfaces that combines sensors, communication technology and data-driven insights to help people with mobility difficulties stay mobile, safe and independent.

“One in three seniors uses one or more mobility aid devices today,” said Ahmad AlGhazi, CEO of Can Mobilities. “We started Can Mobilities to address the mobility challenges hindering the independence of our aging population. Our mission is to unlock solutions to help people with mobility limitations live better, active lives, and make caregiving more efficient for those that need it.”

He said that more than 10,000 people turned 65 every day, but declining birth rates and the caregiver shortage could leave many older adults without proper care.

“This will impact the quality of life for many, and that of their loved ones,” he said. “By leveraging modern technology, we can transform the way we care for older adults and help them stay independent.”

Built in collaboration with medical professionals, mobility experts and user-interface designers, Can Go delivers a multifaceted way to manage complex mobility problems – often related to chronic conditions – and reducing the risk of falls.

“Can Go is a breakthrough in human-centred design and a must-have for anyone that needs a cane to stay mobile and safe, whether it’s due to old age, a disability or an injury,” said Don Norman, former Apple VP and co-founder of the Nielsen Norman group. “Falls are a leading cause of injury for the elderly, and the Can Go has safety features like a built-in light for walking in the dark and a cellular system in case of emergencies. I have been watching Can Mobilities since its early days, and I am thrilled to see how much they have accomplished. Congratulations to Ahmad and his team.”

Jeffrey Krauss, rehabilitation physician at VA Palo Alto Healthcare System, added: “Mobility is one of the biggest challenges for older adults. The Can Go is a modern take on the age-old cane that has the potential to change people’s lives by quantifying their mobility to stay safe and active. It also helps keep the patient connected to their family and physician to ensure proper care and accelerate recovery.”

Features and benefits of the Can Go include:

• Voice communications: The cellular-linked device has a built-in SIM card to ensure emergency communication capability without dependence on wifi. This is critical, as seniors often find it difficult to hold a phone while walking.
• Rescue location: The Can Go is GPS-enabled for safe, independent walking without the risk of getting lost.
• Night safety: The handle has a built-in bright LED flashlight to provide visibility for walking in the dark, accessible via thumb switch.
• Gait speed and activity tracking: Built-in sensors measure gait speed, which could correlate closely to future mobility, longevity and reduced risk of falling.
• Accessible: It can be easily set up from the Can web platform.
• Always ready: The plug-in wall stand is also its charging station.

“As an engineer, entrepreneur and founder of a medical device incubator, I recognise the benefits the Can Go smart cane offers the senior patient population,” said Amr Salahieh, CEO of Shifamed. “A walking aid is critical for many patients and has served humanity for hundreds of years without any upgrade or innovation. For the first time, Can Mobilities is providing a user-friendly cane that allows for stability, tracking and emergency communication, all in the palm of a senior’s hand.”