Innovative study uses X Box sensors to assess safety in homes of the elderly
26 April 2018
Hospitals and researchers from the University of Manchester and Salford University have undertaken a study where Smart home technology is being piloted in Salford to help the elderly live more safely in their own homes.
This project, named Mii Home uses sensors and artificial intelligence to monitor elderly participants movements throughout the day. It could help warn carers or loved ones if someone has a fall or is less mobile than usual.
David Reeves, Reader in Health Research and Biostatistics at the University of Manchester told MICRA: “With the help of 10 participants in homes for the elderly in Salford (Salix Homes) the Kinecting Frailty study is testing out use of the Microsoft KINECT to detect important adverse health events in a home setting, such as declining activity, increasing instability, and falls. The ultimate aim is to develop a Kinect-based “early warning” system for individuals, their families and carers. Being fixed high on a wall and using mains electricity, the Kinect has an advantage over “wearable” monitoring devices which many users find inconvenient or forget to wear or to replace the batteries. In this study we are investigating the acceptability of the Kinect equipment as well as its performance as a remote monitor. “
The long-term aim is to improve the support offered to help older people who are frail and may have problems with their memory maintain their independence.