Detecting falls in older adults at home using advanced technology
Official title: Using Structured Light Sensing with Machine Learning to Detect Unwitnessed In-Home Falls
Funded at Applied Universal Dynamics Corporation · NIH-10934599 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new system that helps keep older adults safe by automatically spotting falls at home, so they can get help quickly if they need it.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Sbir 2 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Applied Universal Dynamics Corporation NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Loretto, United States) |
| Project start | February 15, 2020 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $916,985 |
| NIH project number | 5R44AG066263-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10934599 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are older adults aged 65 and above, particularly those living alone or experiencing mild to moderate cognitive impairment.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are younger than 65 or those who do not experience cognitive impairment may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a new system that can automatically detect falls in older adults living alone or those with mild to moderate cognitive impairment. By utilizing structured light sensing technology, the system creates 3D images of the environment to identify motion patterns indicative of a fall. This approach aims to provide timely alerts for assistance, reducing the risks associated with prolonged periods of lying on the floor after a fall. The project builds on previous successful phases to enhance the effectiveness and reliability of in-home fall monitoring.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce the number of serious injuries and deaths from falls among older adults by ensuring quicker assistance.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using technology for fall detection, making this approach a continuation of successful methodologies.
Where this research is happening
-
Applied Universal Dynamics Corporation
Loretto, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gibson, Paul — Applied Universal Dynamics Corporation
- Study coordinator: Gibson, Paul
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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Falls and brain changes in older adults who don’t yet show dementia
Researchers at Mayo Clinic will study why people over 65 fall, by looking at how brain and body systems work together during walking and thinking tasks.
-
Lighting-centered home changes to prevent falls for people who are visually impaired
A study will test whether brighter, better-lit homes with fewer glare and clearer hazards reduce falls and help with daily tasks for people with vision loss.
-
New balance training to prevent falls in older adults
A new, low-cost balance training program for people 65 and older aims to reduce the chance of falls by improving fast recovery after a trip.
-
Preventing Falls in Older Adults Using Floor Vibrations to Detect Falls and Gait Changes
A new approach aims to detect falls and gait changes in people aged 65 and older by analyzing floor vibrations, with the goal of preventing injuries and reducing fall-related costs.
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In-Home Sensory Training Therapy to Reduce Falls in Older Adults
A home-based program using stroboscopic eyewear to help older adults improve balance and reduce their risk of falls.
-
Sleep, nighttime oxygen, and risk of falls and fractures in older adults
This study looks at how nocturnal low oxygen during sleep relates to falls and bone fractures in men and women aged 50 and older.
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.