Sensor-based fall detection systems: a review

Abstract

Accidental fall is one of the most prevalent causes of loss of autonomy, deaths and injuries among the elderly people. Fall detection and rescue systems with the advancement of technology help reduce the loss of lives and injuries, as well as the cost of healthcare systems by providing immediate emergency services to the victims of accidental falls. The aim of this paper is to perform a systematic review of the existing sensor-based fall detection and rescue systems and to facilitate further research in this field. The systems are reviewed based on their architecture, used sensors, performance metrics, limitations, etc. This review also provides a taxonomy for classifying the fall detection systems. The systems have been divided into two main categories: single sensor-based fall detection systems, and multiple sensor-based fall detection systems. Although single sensor-based systems are very accurate in detecting falls, multiple sensor-based systems are more efficient. The low power consumption of most single sensor-based systems especially those which are based on the accelerometer is perfect for wearable solutions, while most multiple sensor-based systems are perfect for indoor monitoring.