Literature Review and Innovation Development: Smart Cane E-Book for Elderly Fall Prevention

Abstract

Based on the literature review regarding the health situation in Thailand's complete aging society, physical decline—such as muscle weakness and postural instability—serves as a primary risk factor for fall accidents among the elderly. While traditional walking canes are widely used, syntheses of relevant literature highlight key limitations in obstacle detection and daily activity assistance. To address these gaps, a Preventive Approach framework was established by integrating "Appropriate Technology" using accessible, non-complex materials. This led to the development of a smart cane innovation featuring an ergonomic, lightweight, and durable structure, obstacle-detection sensors paired with a Vibration Alert System acting as an artificial sensory extension, and a built-in shoe-horn to minimize bending that often triggers dizziness. Findings confirm that this innovation effectively reduces collisions and tripping without disturbing daily life, thereby enhancing mobility confidence and overall quality of life. Furthermore, this innovation yields significant practical applications: it serves as a preventive safety device for families to reduce medical burdens, acts as an e-book educational model for public health personnel to support at-risk seniors in the community, and offers a foundational knowledge base for future technology transfer and IoT-based community telehealth systems.