With each new iteration, wearables are becoming more integrating into our daily lives, and while for some this feels invasive, for others wearables have the potential to serve as a support system, holding them accountable. This is what makes sets tech like Apple’s iWatch – different from the Apple Watch – apart from other products. The iWatch is expected to monitor health factors like blood glucose and calorie consumption – but why stop there? For the functional addict or alcoholic this kind of monitor could be just the support they need to remain on the path to recovery.
Aid From Apps
While physical trackers remain in development, some excellent apps have hit the market that can help those in recovery monitor their behavior. It’s important to look at who developed these apps, however, since those developed by designers who don’t have medical expertise may be inaccurate and harmful.
A-CHESS hasn’t been released to the public yet, but it has all the hallmarks of an app that could transform addiction treatment. So far studies indicate that in the course of a year, those using A-CHESS to support their recovery from alcoholism were 65% more likely to stay sober.
Bluetooth Connected Buzz Control
Those in treatment for alcohol abuse shouldn’t be drinking at all, but if they’re being treated on an outpatient basis it may be hard to break from traditional social activities and so the temptation is sure to arise. In this case, it may be that family or friends need to take the reins to help the alcoholic individual to stay on track.
For those unsure how to monitor family and friends, the Lapka BAM may be a good investment. Connected to your phone by Bluetooth, the Lapka BAM allows you to measure blood alcohol levels by having the individual blow into the device. The small ceramic device is easy to carry with you and the possibility of being tested at a moment’s notice may help alcoholics stay the course.
Criminal Accountability
Many people who struggle with alcohol use have been convicted of drinking and driving at some point. These individuals are frequently prohibited from drinking as part of their probation, but historically it’s been difficult to keep tabs on this with great accuracy.
Police are now turning to wearable technology that can monitor factors like alcohol excreted through the skin or disrupted sleep patterns potentially caused by alcohol or drug use. While alcohol testing by probation officers has grown more precise, this may be the most reliable system yet.
Sobriety Strategies
Getting sober takes community support and the many different alcohol use monitoring systems coming out of the tech sector may allow friends and family to offer a combination of support while also extending accountability expectations. If you know friends and family have the ability to make sure you’re staying sober, there’s greater incentive to change these negative behaviors.