Smart Fall Detection and Smart Technology for older Australians | Research Capability & Technology Portfolio

Wearable technology for detecting falls in older people, reduces the likelihood of long lies and the associated physical and mental impacts. This wearable technology can be adapted into smart phones and watches, and forms part of a holistic approach to aged care.

Competitive advantage

Wearable fall detector with 95% accuracy
Lowest false alarm rate reported in literature
Lightweight, comfortable and low cost
Optimised battery life - 4 years with no charging or battery replacement

Impact

Approximately one-third of community dwelling residents aged over 65 experience at least one fall a year, with the chance of falling increasing with age
About half of all elderly persons who fall without being seriously injured are unable to get up
This leads to further limitation of functional activities and physical outcomes such as muscle damage, dehydration, hypothermia, pneumonia and increased mortality

Successful outcomes

Tested in the lab and in real life activities of daily living, with healthy volunteers

Capabilities and facilities

Developed prototype devices for trials with older Australians
Ability to adapt the algorithms for integration with mobile phone technology
Currently integrating the falls detector into a "smart-home" designed for older Australians

Our partners

Vitalcare Pty Ltd