Active Assistance for Senior Healthcare: A Wearable System for Fall Detection

• Type: Article in International Conference Proceedings Book
• Date: 2013

Authors

Terroso, M (Author) Other; Freitas, R (Author) Other; Simoes, R (Author) Other; Joaquim Mendes (Author) FEUP; Simoes, R (Author) Other

Conference proceedings International

Title: PROCEEDINGS OF THE 2013 8TH IBERIAN CONFERENCE ON INFORMATION SYSTEMS AND TECHNOLOGIES (CISTI 2013)

8th Iberian Conference on Information Systems and Technologies (CISTI)

Lisboa, PORTUGAL, JUN 19-22, 2013

Indexing

ISI Web of Knowledge - 3 Citations

Scopus - 16 Citations

Other information

Authenticus ID: P-008-GZQ

Abstract (EN): Elders lose independence and wellbeing, accompanied by decreased functions in terms of hearing, vision, strength and coordination abilities. These factors contribute to balance difficulties that eventually lead to falls. The injuries due to falls, at this age, are risky, since most of the times may cause a significant - and permanent - decrease of quality of life or, in extreme cases, death. In this context, a fall detection system can bring an added value to assist elderly people. This paper describes a system consisting of a wearable sensor unit, a smartphone and a website. When the sensor detects a fall it sends an alert using the smartphone via Bluetooth 4.0, to notify the family members or stakeholders. The sensor device includes an inertial unit, a barometer, and a temperature and humidity sensor. The website displays the log of previous falls and enables the configuration of emergency contact numbers. The proposed fall detection system is one of multiple components within a larger project under development that offers a holistic perspective on falls; the complete wearable solution will also feature, among others, physical protection (minimizing the impact of falls that occur).

Language: English

Type (Professor's evaluation): Scientific

No. of pages: 6