An SMU pilot project has fitted sensors in 50 Housing Board flats occupied by senior citizens in Marine Parade. The research team analysed data from five sensors installed in each flat and came up with an individualised alert threshold for each senior, depending on how active he or she is. The project analyses big data to highlight unusual patterns of behaviour over time that may signal a health or social issue. The team will be installing sensors in 20 flats in Bedok by year end that will not only be able to sense motion, but also temperature, humidity and lighting. Associate Professor of Information Systems (Practice) and Academic Director, SMU-TCS iCity Lab Tan Hwee Pink said the potential of such a smart home-tracking system for the elderly is huge if costs are kept down and caregivers understand how to use such technology.
[PHOTO: THE BUSINESS TIMES]