A recent study by a team from Simon Fraser University in British Columbia has unveiled groundbreaking software that could revolutionize safety in stroke rehabilitation. The research team is coordinated by assistant professor Gustavo Balbinot. Their results indicate that the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and wearable technology has the potential to significantly improve safety for people recovering from strokes.
The study, published in the peer-reviewed journal Clinical Rehabilitation, monitored over 50 stroke survivors as they performed various mobility tasks. The state-of-the-art software employed by Fitbit-powered sensors detected movement patterns every three seconds providing researchers the tools to pinpoint possible dangers in real-time. This real-time monitoring is crucial, as it encourages users to slow down if their movements become too wavy or oscillate excessively.
The software analyzes patterns of movement in three-second segments. This method makes it possible for it to quickly spot deviations which may indicate a higher fall risk. As the software’s learning deepens with additional data, its predictions about patients’ fall risk will become more aggressive. This change will increase user safety while rehabilitation is carried out.
“So, every three seconds, the software can detect, is it too wavy, is (it) oscillating a lot,” – Gustavo Balbinot
Each participant wears two sensors, which are continuously collecting data on speed and torso orientation. These sensors are equally important to stop any perilous maneuver from happening in the first place. Balbinot noted that everyone can make risky movements unconsciously, which can eventually result in falls.
The software’s capabilities go beyond just keeping an eye on things in the moment. It can offer really useful, actionable feedback. Then, if it starts to identify dangerous maneuvers, it has the ability to swiftly warn drivers. This encourages them to rest or modify their level of exertion.
“People may engage with dangerous movements, and they are not aware, and then eventually they fall,” – Gustavo Balbinot
Additionally, Balbinot envisions implementing this technology in wearable devices, putting it in the hands of stroke survivors even sooner. Environmental monitoring tools have developed leaps and bounds since the original project. In the future, they might even be directly woven into clothing, making them convenient for everyday use during regular activities.
“The software can say, ‘Hey, it’s dangerous what you’re doing here,’ so maybe it’s just sitting down for a while,” – Gustavo Balbinot
Balbinot likened the detection of movement patterns to observing ripples in water, stating:
“With machine learning, we can really make the software learn what’s good or bad for each person,” – Gustavo Balbinot
It is through this novel methodology that the LIVEcare software seeks to improve preventative safety and facilitate positive recovery for stroke survivors. Its continued development marks one of the biggest leaps forward in neurorehabilitation in years. It would result in a greatly improved experience and increased autonomy for people as they chart their own course on the recovery continuum.
“You can think about when you throw a rock into the river, you see those little waves,” – Gustavo Balbinot
Through this innovative approach, the software aims to enhance safety and support recovery for stroke survivors. The ongoing development of such technology marks a significant step forward in neurorehabilitation, potentially leading to improved outcomes and greater independence for individuals navigating their recovery journey.
