10034742OptiSense - Sensor for Urinary Incontinence ManagementClosedCollaborative R&DInnovate UKThere is now a very clear demand for 'smart diapers' with sensors. Since the past few years, without exception, every major incontinence diaper producer has been investigating wetness sensors. This is because it can improve patient care and significantly save costs for care providers. Worldwide over 400 million adults are affected by urinary incontinence. One in every five persons' older than 40 years of age, is affected by bladder weakness or incontinence. In residential care homes, it is estimated that 70% of the residents are incontinent. In addition, a significant number of children and young people up to 19 years of age suffer from bed-wetting. OptiSense is a disposable wetness senor technology which will be used in diapers. Patients in residential care homes and at homes (assisted living) using sensor integrated 'smart diapers' will be able to alert carers (electronically) for just-in-time change. The need for economical management of UI has driven inventions to indicate when diaper change is required. Diapers are typically designed to absorb and retain up to 1000ml of urine. In institutions caring for millions of UI suffers, there are significant benefits in a system that can advise care givers of the status of the urine content of each adult resident's diaper. On average each adult requires up to 4 diapers per day. Increased care home costs result from both early (excessive) diaper changes, so increasing diaper unit costs. Just-in-time change saves significant carer costs. This has been established through research in the USA. Staff costs account for 60% of the total cost of running residential care homes. There were over 17,000 care homes in the UK alone in 2020\. Also, the costs of late changes are significant, as they result in episodes of skin dermatitis resulting in hospital visits and follow-on treatment given by the care home's staff.