Movendo launches AI to predict and prevent falls for seniors

Movendo Technology, which develops robotics for rehabilitation, has launched the Silver Index, an AI-based algorithm that helps to predict and prevent the risk of falls for senior citizens. The technology is the result of a two-year research programme with 150 patients carried out in collaboration with Galliera Hospital in Genoa, Italy.

According to the World Health Organization, in 2018, falls were the second leading cause of accidental or unintentional injury deaths. More than 37 million falls annually are severe enough to require extensive medical treatment. Adults aged 65 or older represent a substantial proportion. The WHO recommends prevention strategies to emphasize education, training, and the creation of safer environments to reduce fall risk. The Silver Index works to incorporate the three by providing patients with better insights into their vulnerabilities and working to exercise in effective ways to minimize potential risk.

The silver index is a 30-minute test to predict the risk of falls in elderly people, with 95% accuracy. Core to the evaluation is the AI-based algorithm which combines machine learning to provide a detailed map of fall risks. By objectively evaluating 130 biomechanical and neurological parameters in both seated and standing positions while simulating static and dynamic disturbances responsible for falls, the silver index is able to identify an individual’s specific deficits to create a  personalised risk assessment and intervention plan.

The assessment uses Hunova, Movendo’s robotic rehabilitation device. Hunova is currently used for neurological patients in stroke recovery, in orthopaedics, for rehabilitation and muscle strengthening, and now in geriatrics, enabling therapists to work on postural control, proprioception and balance.

Evaluations are divided into a routine of 7 different exercises which measure the limits of stability and balance and sit-to-stand repetitions, whilst simulating the perturbative elements that could lead to a dangerous fall. The diagnostic evaluation will then create a guide of identified problem areas and targeted exercise treatments to mitigate the impacts of fall risks.

Movendo Technology was founded in 2007 by Simone Ungaro, CEO, it is headquartered in Genoa, Italy. It is a subsidiary of Dompé Holdings, the biopharamceutical group.