Developing Fall Detection Tools for Usage in Senior Living Facilities

Developing Fall Detection Tools for Usage in Senior Living Facilities Developing Fall Detection Tools for Usage in Senior Living Facilities Project Description: Mortality from fall accidents in the elderly has been rising steadily (Accident Facts 2021). Falls are particularly problematic for residents of long-term healthcare facilities (HCF; e.g., assisted, independent living, and skilled and long-term nursing facilities). About 10% to 20% of HCF falls cause serious injuries and 2% to 6% cause fractures. Impaired mobility, muscle weakness, and walking or gait problems are the most common causes of falls among HCF residents, and these problems account for about 24% of all HCF falls. Additionally, sleep dysfunction is observed in elderly populations, and increases the likelihood of fall injuries. The prevention of falls in HCF begins with the staffs ability to predict or detect who among their residents are at high risk for falls. Although HCFs often use available check-lists to identify fall risk among their residents, the reliability and validity of these measures are questionable. As such, we will validate a fall risk assessment tool (shank mounted IMU) that will enable clinical staffs to timely assess fall risks among the residents and provide an appropriate evidenced-based intervention if needed.