There are many new technologies that can help older adults aging in place remain safer in their own homes, but often the snag is making sure seniors are consistently wearing fall-detection or emergency alarm devices. Falls are a top cause of hospitalization and injury among seniors, and can often lead to a loss of mobility and independent living. A new artificial intelligence (AI) smart lamp, the Nobi Smart Lamp, is designed to help keep elderly adults safer by monitoring distress indicators, and shining a soft light when the user sits up in bed at night.
According to a recent HME Business Management Solutions report, the Nobi lamp monitors can alert caregivers of a potential fall and automatically illuminate the entire room to prevent tripping or bumping into objects at night. Designed initially for use in care facilities, Nobi can also ask a resident if they have had a fall, and unless a “no” response is received, will call for help from nursing staff.
The Nobi lamp is discreet and can detect falls and send alerts without compromising individual privacy. The device works day and night without having to be activated, and images of a fall can only be shared with family members or caregivers if advanced permission was granted. Nobi replaces existing ceiling lamps, with no additional cables required – only electricity and a working WiFi connection are needed. Nobi, when mounted in the bedroom, can also offer sleep reports. Changes in sleep patterns can be a warning sign of health issues.
The National Council on Aging reports that 1 in 4 older adults fall each year, and every 11 seconds, an older adult is treated in the emergency room for a fall. Falls can cause serious injuries including hip fractures, broken bones, and head injuries. Every 19 minutes, an older adult dies from a fall. Falls are not only costly to health care systems, but injuries resulting from a fall can lead to a poorer quality of life for seniors. Many older adults who have suffered a fall develop a fear of falling and as a result limit their activities, contributing to further physical decline, social isolation and depression. Caregivers are also affected by falls with an increased caregiver burden, fear of subsequent falls, and depression.
The smart lamp is currently available for use in nursing homes and assisted living communities worldwide, and a device geared for home use is expected to be released later in 2023. Follow this link to learn more.
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