Ep 115: Smartwatch Tech Boosts Independence for People with IDD

Andrea Palmer, CEO and co-founder of Awake Labs, was featured on the IDD Health Matters podcast to discuss her company's innovative assistive technology designed to support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Awake Labs uses smartwatches to monitor stress and emotional escalation in real time, providing alerts for self-regulation and enabling timely intervention by support teams. The system includes a smartwatch app, mobile app, and a web dashboard for care teams to analyze behavioral trends and improve support strategies. This technology has helped users gain independence, reduce anxiety-related hospitalizations, and improve relationships and community engagement. Palmer emphasized the importance of collaboration, listening to diverse forms of communication, and finding joy in meaningful work that empowers individuals with IDD to lead more autonomous lives.