Researchers at the University of South Carolina are developing a sensor that, when placed on the floor, can detect movement and vibrations and then transmit the information to someone’s cell phone or computer.
 
Lead researcher Juan Caicedo told Columbia radio station WVOC that the idea behind this sensor is to detect people falling. He says falling is one of the most major risks to senior citizens and this new device can quickly inform a family member if a senior living alone has fallen and needs medical attention. He also says the device is highly sensitive and accurate.
 
“We try to do an estimation of the force that makes the structure vibrate.  And based on that estimation, we can identify if it was somebody falling or if it was, let’s say, a bowl or if it was a pet jumping or something like that,” says Caicedo.
 
Caicedo says the technique is much less intrusive than monitoring people with cameras or microphones and the device is sensitive enough to provide specific information that might even forewarn a fall.
 
Researchers say the technology could be out on the market within the next few years. Right now, testing is taking place at several assisted living centers around the Midlands, including Still Hopes Episcopal Retirement Home, The Lutheran Homes of South Carolina and The Oaks Retirement Homes in Orangeburg.

David Waterman of Columbia affiliate WVOC contributed to this report.