Stepscan Platform image
Stepscan Platform

Canadian company Stepscan Technologies has announced the launch of its new mobility assessment tool created specifically to address the growing problem of accidental falls in hospitals and long-term care facilities.

Accidental falls in hospitals and nursing homes is a widespread threat to patient safety, stresses Stepscan. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 50-75 percent of elderly patients suffer from a nursing home fall each year and that 1,800 elderly patients die each year as a result.

Falls among patients and /or residents in a typical nursing home is reported to be 100-200 falls per year. There are significant costs associated with falls, including patient care costs, increased length of stay and liability. The direct cost to the US healthcare industry due to accidental falls in nursing homes and hospitals is estimated to be in the range of $27 billion.

Stepscan gait and balance technology is currently being used in hospitals and clinics internationally in applications ranging from general rehabilitation, pre-surgery planning and post-operative assessment of Cerebral Palsy children, stroke rehabilitation, concussion screening and fitting of prosthetic limbs.

Crystal Trevors, Founder of Stepscan Technologies, commented: “Last year we were approached by the Director of Care of a long term care facility in Canada with a request to develop a specific fall risk assessment software report that could be used as part of a fall risk screening and monitoring process in their facility.

“The resulting Stepscan mobility assessment tool is capable of measuring and tracking irregularities in gait and balance, easily and quickly identifying residents or hospitalized patients who are at high risk for falling.

“Stepscan also presents a screening and monitoring tool that demonstrates duty of care in ensuring patient and resident safety and well-being.   I am confident that Stepscan will be a valuable addition to any fall prevention and monitoring programs any organization currently has in place.”

Stepscan Technologies is a Canadian technology company that is dedicated to the development and commercialisation of its multiple patents in the field of movement tracking and analysis.

The company’s pressure sensitive flooring system has many applications beyond medical research and clinical rehabilitation, including sports training, clinical drug trials, military training /virtual simulation, and security.

AT TODAY UPDATES
Over 7,000 healthcare professionals stay informed about the latest assistive technology with AT Today. Do you?
We respect your privacy