A system to detect and predict falls in people with dementia
Official title: Ultra Wideband Fall Detection and Prediction Solution for People Living with Dementia
Funded at Clairvoyant Networks, INC. · NIH-11160272 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is creating a smart system to help keep older adults with dementia safe by detecting falls and alerting their caregivers right away, using special technology to track their movements and understand their balance better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Sbir 2 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Clairvoyant Networks, INC. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Spicewood, United States) |
| Project start | September 18, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $1,217,726 |
| NIH project number | 4R44AG076218-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11160272 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are older adults diagnosed with dementia who are at risk of falling.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have cognitive impairment or those who are not at risk of falling may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to develop an automated fall detection system specifically for older adults living with dementia, who are at a higher risk of falling. By utilizing Ultra Wideband (UWB) technology, the system will provide precise location tracking and real-time alerts to caregivers when a fall is detected. The project will also gather mobility data to assess fall risk based on changes in gait and balance. The research will progress from laboratory testing to real-world applications, ensuring the system is effective in practical settings.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly enhance the safety and well-being of individuals with dementia by providing timely alerts and reducing fall-related injuries.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using technology for fall detection, but this specific application of UWB technology is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Clairvoyant Networks, INC.
Spicewood, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Symonds, Shelley L — Clairvoyant Networks, INC.
- Study coordinator: Symonds, Shelley L
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.