FAQ

Do I need to have a smartphone to use WalkWise? #

No! The Node plugs into a wall socket, connects to the cellular network, and handles data transfer for WalkWise. You can then view data and adjust notification settings on the web app.

Do I need to charge WalkWise? #

No! The WalkWise walker attachment operates on two AAA batteries, which will last for about 1 year. Change them every nine months or so, or when you get a low battery notification on the app or through email.

Will WalkWise work with my walker? #

Most likely, yes. However, there are a few styles of walkers that are not compatible, including walkers without wheels and Parkinson’s-specific U-walkers. Please feel free to contact us with questions about compatibility.

Check out our walker guide here.

How does WalkWise attach to my walker? #

WalkWise attaches to the outside of your walker wheel. It’s so thin, you won’t notice it’s there! A number of installation methods exist depending on the type of walker that you have. Visit our support page to see all the different methods. You won’t need any tools, other than perhaps scissors.

How is WalkWise different than a smart watch? #

It is very similar, except that it does so much more to help people stay independent and safe. You need to charge a smart watch, remember to wear it 24/7, and have smartphone around, but WalkWise eliminates these requirements. Plus, a smart watch will not register steps with a walker because your wrist doesn’t move!

I already have a pendant I can push if I need help. Do I need WalkWise? #

Personal Emergency Response Systems (PERS) are great, and everyone who is at risk of falling should wear one. However, they do nothing to prevent falls from happening in the first place, and do not help if you forget to wear your pendant or become unconscious for any reason. WalkWise is NOT an emergency response system, but it can notify families and caregivers if something out-of-the-ordinary happens. WalkWise also prevents falls by encouraging 24/7 walker use through positive incentives and feedback.

I live with a family member or roommate. Do I need WalkWise? #

Yes, for a number of reasons. WalkWise helps motivate people to be more active, no matter their living situation. It also helps notify people to potential health concerns that will be missed if you don’t share a bed. And WalkWise can ensure peace of mind if you must be at home by yourself for a number of hours.

How do I know if the device is on? #

If it has batteries in it, then it’s on! WalkWise was purposely designed without lights or buttons to make it as discreet as possible.

How does WalkWise handle data privacy? #

If you received WalkWise through your healthcare provider or health insurer, WalkWise is responsible for keeping your private information safe under HIPAA. We never sell information to third parties and use the information you give us only for the functionality of the WalkWise system. For more information, view our terms of use and privacy policy.

What does WalkWise measure? #

When WalkWise is rotated on your walker wheel, it records data about the time and distance walked. WalkWise also periodically sends messages indicating when the walker has NOT moved, as well as when it is tipped over. These sorts of data are analyzed to track hourly and daily walking distance, walking duration, walking speed, and nighttime motion. As this data is analyzed in real-time, notifications will be sent out based on your personalized notification settings in the app.

How do I get notifications? #

Most notifications are sent via email by default, which will be the email you used to register for a WalkWise account. However, a number of notifications are available via text message, push notification, and automated phone call. For security reasons, you must contact our support team to set up a land-line phone number. It is possible to get notifications sent by all methods at once. An unlimited number of accounts can have access to the same WalkWise device, allowing people to set up their own notifications as they see fit.