Smart Walker: an IMU-Based Device for Patient Activity Logging and Fall Detection

Hip fractures are common in the geriatric population and represent a growing social and economic burden [1]. They are associated with decreased mobility, and the recovery period can be prolonged. Early mobilization is a critical component of the recovery process. Few studies have quantitatively measured activity levels in patients after hip fracture surgery, resulting in a lack of objective data about mobility status after hospital discharge. Furthermore, each year about 1.5 million elderly people are injured falling, and about 47,300 people aged ≥65 years suffer injuries from falls using walking aids that require an emergency room visit [2]. Patients using walkers are seven times more likely to fall than those that use canes. The risk of repeat falls has been shown to be especially high in patients who have already sustained a hip fracture.