Sensor belt detects onset of neurodegenerative disorders

Neurodegenerative changes occur decades before a reduced cognitive ability becomes apparent. These changes can be detected but the procedures are expensive or invasive and are not suitable for large-scale early warning programmes. Now, Empa researchers are working with partners from the Cantonal Hospital and the Geriatric Clinic in St. Gallen, all in Switzerland, on a non-invasive diagnostic method that detects the early processes of dementia.

Patrick Eggenberger and Simon Annaheim from Empa's Biomimetic Membranes and Textiles lab in St. Gallen are using a sensor belt - already used for ECG measurements - equipped with sensors for other relevant parameters such as body temperature and gait pattern. According to the team, subtle changes that appear are expressed through unconscious bodily reactions, and these changes can only be recorded precisely when measurements are taken over a longer period of time.

"It should be possible to integrate the long-term measurements into everyday life," said Annaheim.

Skin-friendly and comfortable monitoring systems are essential for measurements that are suitable for everyday use, and to this end the belt will be based on flexible sensors with electrically conductive or light-conducting fibres, plus sensors for motion and temperature measurement.