Carpet Can Help Monitor Alzheimer's Patients

Columbia, MO, Nov. 9, 2010 -- A University of Missouri professor of electrical and computer engineering, has developed smart carpet, a flooring system that monitors the movements of Alzheimer's patients and can detect potentially dangerous circumstances, according to a story in the Missourian.

Researcher Harry Tyrer with the Center for Eldercare and Rehabilitation Technology said the purpose of the flooring system is to help patients remain both independent and safe, and to do so in an unobtrusive manner.

The smart carpet would also be an aid to caregivers and family members of patients, Tyrer told the newspaper. The flooring system is connected to a computer program that communicates the patient's location and can call caregivers when it detects movement consistent with a fall.

Nursing professor Marylin Rantz said the carpet is also useful because it allows caretakers to keep an eye on an Alzheimer's patient's pacing activity.

The team is now working to make the flooring system affordable. id.