Wireless slips and falls prediction system

Annu Int Conf IEEE Eng Med Biol Soc. 2012:2012:4042-5. doi: 10.1109/EMBC.2012.6346854.

Abstract

Accidental slips and falls due to decreased strength and stability are a concern for the elderly. A method to detect and ideally predict these falls can reduce their occurrence and allow these individuals to regain a degree of independence. This paper presents the design and assessment of a wireless, wearable device that continuously samples accelerometer and gyroscope data with a goal to detect and predict falls. Lyapunov-based analyses of these time series data indicate that wearer instability can be detected and predicted in real time, implying the ability to predict impending incidents.

MeSH terms

  • Accelerometry
  • Accidental Falls*
  • Algorithms
  • Humans
  • Telemetry / methods*
  • Walking
  • Wireless Technology*