There have been new hip protections devices that use inflatable airbags to protect hips from fractures. One study shows that using fall detection technology falls could be detected with an average lead-time of 700 milliseconds before the impact occurs, with no false alarms (100% specificity), a sensitivity of 95.2% J Biomech. 2008 Dec 5;41(16):3475-81. This study tested falls in several young volunteers. Currently these devices are sold under different names, one such device is available as Tangobelt.
At Steady Strides Fall Prevention and Stroke Rehabilitation Medical Institute we have not started using these devices, as we have not seen a sufficient set of studies evaluating safety of these devices in older adults. In our clinic we combine modern medicine with gait biomechanics to diagnose and treat why older adults fall. Dr Atanelov works closely with the physical and occupational therapy team to help reduce risk of falls. Share this link with friends to help save older adults from falls. Call 443 898 8160 to make an appointment.