The design and evaluation of a wearable-based system for targeted tremor assessment in Parkinson's disease

Abstract

Wearable sensors are worn by subjects to allow for continuous physiological monitoring. The use of wearable sensors for the quantification of movement within research communities has increased in recent years, with the purpose of objectively assessing and diagnosing the progression of Parkinson's Disease (PD). Most studies taking this approach for PD have stated that there is a need for a long-term solution, due to individuals having varying symptoms at different stages of the disease. Furthermore, a preference for home-based care has increased in recent times due to COVID-19, with clinical care being highly effected due to cancellations, delayed appointments, or a reduction of time spent with patients. The necessity for a system for patients with Parkinson's is extremely significant. There is no clinically available long-term assessment for tremors, and how these systems can be used to assess and aid in a clinical environment is still underdeveloped. The proposed system which includes wireless sensors, and results based off the clinical scale used currently for tremor assessment, may allow for constant, real-time, and accurate monitoring of a subject with tremors. This will provide more detailed medical data to enable long-term assessment, diagnosis, as well as person-centered physical therapy.