Program Overview

Each year, a third of people over 65 experience a fall. This can have physical, emotional and economic consequences. Falls can lead not only to injury and loss of independence, but also put strain on the health care system.

Globally, one third of the over 65 population experiences a fall each year. The impact of falls can be physical and emotional as well as have economic consequences. For instance, they can lead to injury, loss of independence and put a huge strain on the health care system. In Australia, the population is rapidly ageing and so, maintaining independence into later years is of great importance.

This health tech design challenge asks students to design an innovative product that can be worn to help prevent or manage fall-related injuries in our elderly population.

Through research, students identify the root issues associated with falls for the individual, family and broader community, and then design a wearable solution that incorporates technology to safeguard those most precious to us, our elders.

Students will prototype different aspects of their product using a range of emerging technologies, including microcontrollers, coding, 3D modelling and wearable electronics.

Success Criteria

• Explain the physical, emotional and economic impacts of falls in the ageing population
• Collaborate effectively to create solutions to identified problems 
• Consider a range of tools, technologies and specialist equipment