Citation

Abou L, Fliflet A, Presti P, Sosnoff JJ, Mahajan HP, Frechette ML, Rice LA. Assist. Technol. 2023; ePub(ePub): ePub.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2023, Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology Society of North America, Publisher Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.1080/10400435.2023.2177775

PMID

36749900

Abstract

Automated fall detection device for individuals who use wheelchairs to minimize consequences of falls is lacking. This study aimed to develop and train a fall detection algorithm to differentiate falls from wheelchair mobility activities using machine learning techniques. Thirty, healthy, ambulatory, young adults simulated falls from a wheelchair and performed other wheelchair-related mobility activities in a laboratory. Neural Network classifiers were used to train the algorithm developed based on data retrieved from accelerometers mounted at the participant's wrist, chest, and head.

RESULTS indicate excellent accuracy to differentiate between falls and wheelchair mobility activities. The sensors mounted at the wrist, chest, and head presented with an accuracy of 100%, 96.9%, and 94.8%, respectively using data from 258 falls and 220 wheelchair mobility activities. This pilot study indicates that a fall detection algorithm developed in a laboratory setting based on fall accelerometer patterns can accurately differentiate wheelchair-related falls and wheelchair mobility activities. This algorithm should be integrated into a wrist-worn devices and tested among individuals who use a wheelchair in the community.

Language: en

Keywords

accidental falls; activity recognition; Fall detection; wearable sensor; wheelchair