Cyber-empathic healthcare prognostics: Using sensor integrated shoe inserts to support prognostics to mitigate falling in an aging population

Project Summary:  We propose to investigate critical features in developing an “extended care-network”. The envisioned network is based upon extension of current research in the area of cyber-empathic design to the area of healthcare prognostics. Specifically, we propose to use a sensor-integrated shoe platform in conjunction with mobility tests for screening a population at-risk of falling. This exploratory research phase represents a first step toward (i) potential improvements to current fall-risk screening methods; (ii) prognostic information that provides feedback to at-risk individuals and others in the extend care-network in real time; (iii) diagnostic information for healthcare providers to develop personalized intervention strategies; and (iv) data that supports interventions in the form of improved footwear design. These outcomes represent important steps in reducing risk of falling and maintaining independence for at-risk individuals.