This project will develop and commercialize a reliable and interactive auto-feedback system for tele-care of persons with minor cognitive impairments (MCIs), such as Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), or short-term memory loss. The proposed system, which integrates MEMS-based sensor technology with an interactive bio- feedback unit, enhances the quality of life of patients with MCIs by helping live independently while remaining in contact with emergency- and other medical-care providers through tele-care monitoring. The system comprises: (1) a MEMS-based sensor module placed on the subjects chest;(2) a Base Unit located in the patient's living environment and used to provide feedback to the subject;(3) a BioFeedback Unit such a PDA, for providing biofeedback to the user and (4) a Central Unit located at a separate location-such as hospital or nursing home-used for remote monitoring of patients living independently. The MEMS-based kinematic sensor module attached to the subject's upper body to monitor physical activity will be highly portable so as to not hinder the subject's movements during everyday life. This sensor will gather data about the patient's activity and tracks the execution of daily routines. The Base Unit, in wireless communication with the sensor module, will subsequently analyze the collected data. The results will be used to provide individualized feedback to the user, and to issue additional instructions as needed. By monitoring the subject's daily physical activity, the device evaluates whether the patient reacts appropriately to the instructions provided by the bio-feedback. The system has the capacity to incorporate other sensors to monitor various aspects of heath care. For example, sensors may be integrated into the drug bottles to monitor whether the patient takes his or her prescribed medications on time. The sensors will communicate with the Base Unit and appropriate instructions will be provided to the user as required.
The direct outcome of this project is a reliable, effective and interactive system for assisting people with minor cognitive or memory impairment to maintain their independent living. The proposed system not only significantly reduces the cost associated with providing direct assistance to these patients in hospitals and nursing homes, but also expedites physical and mental recovery of patients by increasing their activity. In a broader context, the proposed system can be used to monitor and record the physical activity of people during every day life for various applications, such as assessment of quality of life, and evaluation of the effect of drugs and rehabilitative intervention and provides a unique solution for patients with minor cognitive impairment and encouragement of independent living.
