Fall detection from a manual wheelchair: preliminary findings based on accelerometers using machine learning techniques

ABSTRACT

Automated fall detection devices for individuals who use wheelchairs to minimize the consequences of falls are lacking. This study aimed to develop and train a fall detection algorithm to differentiate falls from wheelchair mobility activities using machine learning techniques. Thirty, healthy, ambulatory, young adults simulated falls from a wheelchair and performed other wheelchair-related mobility activities in a laboratory. Neural Network classifiers were used to train the algorithm developed based on data retrieved from accelerometers mounted at the participant’s wrist, chest, and head. Results indicate excellent accuracy to differentiate between falls and wheelchair mobility activities. The sensors mounted at the wrist, chest, and head presented with an accuracy of 100%, 96.9%, and 94.8%, respectively, using data from 258 falls and 220 wheelchair mobility activities. This pilot study indicates that a fall detection algorithm developed in a laboratory setting based on fall accelerometer patterns can accurately differentiate wheelchair-related falls and wheelchair mobility activities. This algorithm should be integrated into a wrist-worn devices and tested among individuals who use a wheelchair in the community.

KEYWORDS:

• accidental falls
• activity recognition
• fall detection
• wearable sensor
• wheelchair

Disclosure statement

The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this manuscript.

Data availability statement

The data that support the findings of this study are openly available in OpenICPSR at https://doi.org/10.3886/E158841V1, reference number 158841.

Additional information

Funding

This study was supported by the National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research (NIDILRR) # 90 REGE006-01-00, Technology to Support Aging.