Here is a novel reason to wear glasses. A French-based start-up company has launched Serenity smart glasses, to help overcome drowsiness for drivers, and manage falls among elderly people.

How do they work? Technology is embedded in the lightweight frames. Sensors collect physical, physiological and environmental data, and can connect to mobile apps.

The drowsiness detection alert system analyses yawning, head micro-drops, frequency of eyelids closing, and car temperature. Through this people at risk of falling asleep while driving are identified.

Recently the glasses were on display at the 2020 Consumer Electronics Show. They are gaining attention as a product that “can help save lives and reduce accidents,” said business manager Theo Niktabe.

This could be a way to reduce potentially fatal car accidents as well as falls. There is an automatic fall detection feature which alerts others, family or a professional helpline. Then appropriate and prompt assistance could be provided.

Mr Niktabe said Serenity glasses have been designed to look like regular eyewear as people of all ages don’t want to wear a ‘device’ for fall detection.

There are also developments to protect employees in work environments. These include monitoring physical activity and stress levels, vigilance for jobs requiring high attention, pollution, and the ability to warn workers of musculoskeletal disorders.

The Serenity smart glasses are on sale in France and are being launched worldwide.