Multisensor guided walker for visually impaired elderly people

Abstract

Assisted living for people with disabilities remains a current research challenge. Many systems have been developed to help disabled and frail people gain their self-sufficiency during their activities of daily living (ADL). In this article, we propose a new design concept to help visually impaired (VI) elderly patients move in their home environment. The system is made of a light-weight medical walker where sensory components and processing electronics are installed and operated. Behavioral and environmental information are collected using proper sensors mounted on walker's frame. Direction data are provided using audible notification. The system uses a hardware guiding technique based on ultrasonic and optical sensors for obstacle detection and accelerometer for fall and vibration detection. The algorithm developed for this purpose triggers an audible notification to alert the patient if there is an obstacle ahead. While many developed walkers are complex, expensive and require training to be used, our electronic walker gathers flexibility, reliability, ease of use and future expendability. Unlike other products, the electronic walker is also suitable for indoor and outdoor use. The results obtained after testing the system proved effectiveness. The use of low cost components makes our walker affordable as a final product.