Retracted: A multi-agent precaution-detection-action (PDA) framework for fall detection at geriatric centers

Research has shown that one over three people aged 65 and above is likely to fall each year. The complications arising from falls causing a significant decrease in functional status and increased utilization of medical services. Hence, early detection of falls are key strategies to be employed in reducing fall-related injuries. In Malaysia, systems that can detect a fall incident at premises and send out signals to the relevant parties to request for help is not available. This paper proposes a novel approach for fall detection and prevention called the Precaution-Detection-Action (PDA) framework. The PDA framework is based on software agent technology and nodal approach. It consists of three subsystems: Detection (Detecting a fall), Precaution (Containing risk factors faced by the geriatric patients) and Action (Notifying and calling for help). These subsystems rely on each other’s information to support a comprehensive monitoring and reporting system where a medical alert system with fall detection can be formed. Two of the locations that can be potentially supported by this framework are geriatric residences and the home-alone elderly. The outcomes of this work will benefit the welfare associated communities, caregivers, and the nation. The government can also benefit from this work as the high cost in providing medical assistance to the injured people may be reduced. Keywords : Elderly, fall detection, geriatric centers, multi-agent technology.