Having dysphagia can be frustrating and embarrassing. It's not possible for people to go to the clinic every day for swallowing exercises, so the results of rehabilitation can be disappointing. Mobili-T was created to improve the well-being of individuals affected by swallowing disorders. It consists of a small wireless device placed under the chin and an app that provides visual biofeedback, allowing users to see their swallowing muscles in real-time. This is made possible by clinically established surface electromyography or sEMG technology, which measures muscle activity. The device is small and portable, and the carrying case doubles as a charger, making it easy to do swallowing exercises anytime and anywhere. The app enables users to track their progress and challenge themselves to improve, with data shared automatically with their clinician for valuable insights and exercise adjustments.
In 2015, a survey conducted by HKU in Hong Kong revealed the prevalence of dysphagia among the elderly population. The survey included 55 aged care facilities, 34 residential care centers, and 21 community care centers, making it a large-scale study. Results showed that 61% of elderly living in residential care centres were diagnosed with varying degrees of dysphagia, with 11% being diagnosed as severe. Similarly, 41% of elderly living in community care centers were also diagnosed with varying degrees of dysphagia, with 6% being diagnosed as severe. This alarming situation deserves serious attention and action.
With Mobili-T a therapist can see how patients are doing during tests and also if they follow prescriptions to exercise more often. Biofeedback gives the patient and therapist they are meeting targets or not. Biofeedback increases the accuracy of training, putting more efforts build stronger muscles and coordination.
Mobili-T is light, easy to put on, with evidence of better adherence. Patient can exercise more often, bring Mobili-T with them to exercise anytime anywhere.