Sistema de monitoramento remoto de quedas de pacientes

Abstract

This project introduces a patient monitoring system directed mainly to elderly people, used in order to detect falls in real-time and avoid long waits for help. This is an extremely important service considering that when the patient is readily aided that contributes to his recovery and decreases the chances to have a permanent sequel. People of all ages are in risk when it comes to falls, however for the elderly it can have a more relevant meaning since it can cause them disabilities, serious injuries or even the death. The system has basically four modules: an accelerometer, a WiFi module, an Arduino and an Android device. The developed device, that must be located in the patient’s chest area, is capable of communicating to a smartphone via WiFi. The main goal of this connexion is to keep the patient status updated at the Android application, and if a fall occurs the smartphone will automatically send a SMS text to the patient caregiver or someone responsible for him. In this way, a fast aid is provided to the elder avoiding damages resulting of a long wait for help. Furthermore, the device has got a small pushbutton and a red light. When an event of fall occurs the red light will turn on and it will be turned off only when the patient receives help and the button is pressed.