Smartphones and Threshold-Based Monitoring Methods Effectively Detect Falls Remotely: A Systematic Review

Abstract

In the US, at least one fall occurs in at least 28.7% of community-dwelling seniors 65 and older each year. Falls had medical costs of USD 51 billion in 2015 and are projected to reach USD 100 billion by 2030. This review aims to discuss the extent of smartphone (SP) usage in fall detection and prevention across a range of care settings. A computerized search was conducted on six electronic databases to investigate the use of remote sensing technology, wireless technology, and other related MeSH terms for detecting and preventing falls. After applying inclusion and exclusion criteria, 44 studies were included. Most of the studies targeted detecting falls, two focused on detecting and preventing falls, and one only looked at preventing falls. Accelerometers were employed in all the experiments for the detection and/or prevention of falls. The most frequent course of action following a fall event was an alarm to the guardian. Numerous studies investigated in this research used accelerometer data analysis, machine learning, and data from previous falls to devise a boundary and increase detection accuracy. SP was found to have potential as a fall detection system but is not widely implemented. Technology-based applications are being developed to protect at-risk individuals from falls, with the objective of providing more effective and efficient interventions than traditional means. Successful healthcare technology implementation requires cooperation between engineers, clinicians, and administrators.

A Comprehensive Analysis of Fall Risk and Prevention

“…Additionally, fall prevention wearable devices can provide older adults and their families with peace of mind (44). Ensuring older adults are monitored and that assistance will be promptly contacted in the event of a fall can significantly mitigate feelings of anxiety and dread.…”

Age-Related Decline in Cervical Proprioception and Its Correlation with Functional Mobility and Limits of Stability Assessed Using Computerized Posturography: A Cross-Sectional Study Comparing Older (65+ Years) and Younger Adults

“…For the older person, these exercise and social engagement Healthcare 2023, 11,1924 2 of 14 limitations lead to a decline in quality of life, a loss of autonomy, and increased dependency on others [4]. Therefore, a fall incidence is a defining moment for many older persons [5]. If no preventive measures are implemented, fall-related injuries are expected to double by 2030 [5,6].…”

“…Therefore, a fall incidence is a defining moment for many older persons [ 5 ]. If no preventive measures are implemented, fall-related injuries are expected to double by 2030 [ 5 , 6 ]. Effective proprioception and postural control are crucial for maintaining body equilibrium and preventing falls in older adults [ 7 ].…”

Innovation in Digital Health Interventions for Frailty and Sarcopenia

“…In-ear wearable devices may be more useful for gait training and fall prevention because they are relatively inexpensive and can be easily equipped with voice-assist functions. Additionally, technologies have been developed to detect falls using smartphone applications and in-ear wearable devices based on changes in the angle and speed of the device when a user falls [ 26 , 27 ]. As these technologies become more widely implemented, we may observe a decrease in DHI-associated fall-risks.…”