LLiDAR (light detection and ranging) is a technology that uses pulsed lasers to measure distances and generate detailed 3-D maps of environments. It is starting to become incorporated in health care settings in products that help monitor patient movements and improve safety by detecting falls, tracking patient location and alerting staff to potential hazards, according to a blog post from GAO Tek.
Deeper Dive
LiDAR can be integrated into assistive devices for individuals with disabilities, such as smart wheelchairs and navigation aids to enhance mobility and independence, and can be used to help track air quality, temperature and humidity levels in health care facilities. Indiana University Health and Mayo Clinic are employing an AI assistant called Luna in programs that support Alzheimer’s care and detect REM sleep behavioral disorders, Healthcare IT Today reported. The device can monitor vital signs like heart rate and breathing, track movement and sense changes in behavior patterns.
Other uses for LiDAR could be in managing patient flow and real-time crowd monitoring, analyzing and guiding movements during physical rehabilitation sessions, and high-resolution imaging to aid surgeons during procedures.