Classification and characterization of postural transitions using instrumented shoes

Area of Science:

• Biomechanics
• Gerontology
• Wearable Technology

Background:

• Sit-to-stand and stand-to-sit transitions are crucial for mobility and fall risk in older adults.
• Age-related decline in these postural transitions necessitates accurate assessment methods for daily life.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and validate instrumented shoes for classifying and characterizing postural transitions in older adults.
• To estimate transition duration and vertical force using insole force signals.

Main Methods:

• Collected data from older and young adults performing transitions in a lab setting.
• Utilized a wavelet approach for insole force data analysis and transition event detection.
• Validated transition duration and vertical force against force plate measurements.
• Classified daily life transitions using instrumented shoes and validated against a wearable system.

Main Results:

• Transition duration estimation error ranged from 10-20%, with vertical force estimation error at 7%.
• Postural transition classification achieved over 90% sensitivity and precision.
• Instrumented shoes demonstrated suitability for real-world monitoring.

Conclusions:

• Instrumented shoes are effective for classifying and characterizing postural transitions in the daily lives of healthy older adults.
• This technology offers a promising tool for objective fall risk assessment.