Abstract
The rapid development and widespread use of information and telecommunication technologies do not mitigate, in many situations, information exclusion, nor the physical isolation of people—mainly that of the elderly living in remote locations, whose mobile network coverage is deficient or non-existent, preventing them from accessing health care, be it routine follow-up procedures or emergencies. Addressing this, we raise the question that guides our study: how can we monitor the elderly’s residence and health conditions, detect falls, and track their movement in the vicinity of their homes in a non-intrusive manner? To answer this question, we present a system prototype that uses affordable, low-cost, and low-energy equipment with media and data processing, supported by LoRa (Long Range) and ESP32 microcontrollers, coupling several sensors. As a result, it is possible to monitor sensors that predict and detect falls or other risk events for the user, e.g., fire, with authorized persons and entities, family members, civil protection, and security forces accessing the gathered data, assuring their security. We conclude that the system could decisively improve people’s quality of life, particularly those of the elderly who live in remote places with greater vulnerability.
Highlights
The Internet of Things (IoT) is currently present in several domestic systems, be it in small devices for regular use, such as a blood pressure meter, or in more extensive equipment, namely, photovoltaic panels for energy production, household appliances, consumption, and energy efficiency controllers, among others [1]
IoT terminology, which refers directly to systems permanently linked to communication networks, has revolutionized the way we use different technologies, enabling varied uses depending on the socio-economic conditions of populations and their digital literacy [3]
In the example of application in the Caramulo mountain, we considered installing a LoRaWAN Gateway connected to the The Things Network (TTN) in the residence in the nearest locality, which receives data from the long-range telecommunications equipment and devices (LoRa) nodes, dispersed and isolated
Summary
The Internet of Things (IoT) is currently present in several domestic systems, be it in small devices for regular use, such as a blood pressure meter, or in more extensive equipment, namely, photovoltaic panels for energy production, household appliances, consumption, and energy efficiency controllers, among others [1]. The remote monitoring of people’s health and physical conditions is one area that has benefited the most from this type of technology. It involves the use of miniaturized, non-intrusive, and pervasive devices, which go unnoticed most of the time and transmit and adapt their behavior according to the user’s needs [2]. We can connect heterogeneous devices, e.g., smartphones with a mobile network (3G/4G and, in the future, 5G), Bluetooth devices, wireless networks, and sensors, among others It enables interaction between these various devices and creating synergistic technological systems, which improve people’s quality of life. Many populations and individuals, the elderly, are prevented from taking advantage of this technological development, especially those living in small towns or isolated dwellings without families or continued institutional support
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