“Revolutionary” new fall detecting sensor launches to help elderly people lead independent and safer lives

A new fall detector has been launched by smart connected-living solutions provider Essence Group to help elderly people live independently and safely at home whilst giving carers added reassurance.

Set to launch in the UK this year, the innovative fall detector uses Texas Instruments’ mmWave sensor. The device has been awarded “IoT Health & Wellness Safety Solution of the Year” as part of the IoT Breakthrough awards for 2020.

Using radar technology, the Fall Detector tracks the positioning of individuals and provides immediate detection of falls.

A battery-operated wireless radar-based device, the detector facilitates greater independence by providing accurate fall verification, immediately alerting healthcare providers if a person falls over.

The radar forms part of the Essence SmartCare’s Care@Home senior monitoring platform. This platform uses an integrated series of devices placed around the house with a variety of safety measures including an activity monitoring, physical and verbal panic buttons and various fall detection and prevention methods.

Dr. Haim Amir, CEO and Founder of Essence, said: “Independence in later life shouldn’t come at a cost. The use of innovative radar technology significantly increases the accuracy of fall detection, giving peace of mind to caregivers while allowing residents to live freely.

“By collecting detailed information, we can tailor our response to reduce risk and provide round-the-clock care. Care@Home maintains the privacy of the resident while giving healthcare providers accurate alerts that include the resident’s location in the house, allowing assistance to arrive quicker. This is a gamechanger for the elderly care market.”