Invention:
This invention is a training device and method designed to help individuals at higher risk of falling. The individual wears a safety harness and navigates a homelike environment that contains various obstacles simulating slips, trips, and stumbles. This controlled environment provides a safe and realistic setting for practicing balance recovery and fall prevention. The goal is to enhance an individual's ability to resist falls, potentially reducing fall incidents by 70% for up to two years. Falls are a major health concern, with healthcare costs related to fall injuries surpassing those of cancer treatments.
Background:
Falls, especially among older adults, are a significant public health issue, often leading to severe injuries, loss of independence, and increased healthcare costs. Current solutions to address fall risk primarily involve physical therapy, balance training, and environmental modifications, but these approaches can be limited in effectiveness and accessibility. Many individuals who are at higher risk of falling do not receive enough real-world exposure to situations where they might trip, slip, or stumble, which are the leading causes of falls. Unlike existing methods that rely on static exercises, this approach simulates real-life hazards in a safe space, allowing individuals to practice fall recovery in a way that mimics everyday activities. The added realism and active engagement in this training is designed to better prepare users to avoid falls, making it a more effective and preventative solution compared to traditional therapies.
Applications:
- Fall prevention training
- Physical therapy and rehabilitation centers
Advantages:
- Provides a realistic and safe training environment
- Reduces fall risk
- Training supports preventative care
- Helps reduce fall-related healthcare costs
