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Wearable GPS and Accelerometer Technologies for Monitoring Mobility and Physical Activity in Neurodegenerative
Mícheál Ó Breasail1, Bijetri Biswas2, Matthew D Smith1,3
1Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, 1-5 Whiteladies Road, Bristol BS8 1NU, UK.
Sensors (Basel, Switzerland)
|December 28, 2021
Summary
Wearable sensors like accelerometers and GPS can passively monitor mobility and physical activity in neurodegenerative disorders (NDDs). These technologies show promise as biomarkers for tracking disease progression and treatment response.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Neurology
- Rehabilitation Medicine
Background:
- Neurodegenerative disorders (NDDs) significantly impact mobility, physical activity (PA), and independence.
- Traditional monitoring methods like diaries are challenging for individuals with dementia.
- Wearable sensors offer a non-invasive, cost-effective solution for passive monitoring.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review the use of wearable GPS and accelerometers for monitoring mobility and PA in common NDDs.
- To identify potential sensor-derived biomarkers for NDD onset, progression, and treatment response.
Main Methods:
- Systematic search of four databases for studies published within the last 5 years.
- Keywords included NDDs (Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, etc.) and wearable technologies (GPS, accelerometers).
- Screening of 4985 identified papers, retaining 28 studies for full-text review.
Main Results:
- 27 out of 28 studies utilized accelerometers; only one used both GPS and accelerometers.
- Accelerometer use is widespread and operationalized in clinical trials for NDDs.
- GPS measures showed validation in a Parkinson's cohort, indicating potential applicability to other NDDs.
Conclusions:
- Accelerometers are a well-established tool for monitoring mobility and PA in NDDs.
- GPS technology shows promise for NDD monitoring, with potential for broader application.
- Sensor-derived data may serve as valuable biomarkers for NDD management.
