Insights from The Orlando Senior Help Desk: Understanding vibrotactile technology

Vibrotactile technology is a new, non-invasive way to help the body and brain by using small, gentle vibrations on the skin. These vibrations can send information to the nervous system, helping improve balance, manage pain, and even support those living with conditions like Parkinson’s disease or after a stroke. The technology is often in the form of a patch.

How does it work?

• Stimulating the skin — Tiny vibrating devices, often worn on the body, gently stimulate special touch receptors in the skin.

• Sending messages to the brain — The brain feels these vibrations as patterns. These pattern...