Tracker could help spot signs of brain decline

A £400 box that fixes on the ceiling could help track signs of cognitive decline and reduce the risk of falls, according to new research.

Smart homes fitted with the Sense4safety system have their inhabitants monitored by “silhouette” technology. Depth sensors track a person’s gait as they move around and measure any alterations in walking speed, stride length and the time it takes to cover a certain distance.

It is believed that it could be used in residential and care homes to detect early signs of brain decline, which have been linked to gait changes.

Prof George Demiris, of the University of Pennsylvania, said it could prevent unnecessary falls.