Development of an intelligent gas-sensing fecal collection system for bedridden and incontinent people: A sustainable approach to smart seniors care
Fu-Jung Chuang, Yueh-Heng Chiu, Chia-Hsin Chen
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AbstractBackground: Bowel incontinence is a persistent challenge among bedridden and disabled senior patients, often leading to adverse clinical outcomes such as skin infections and significant caregiver burden. Conventional adult diapers generate substantial environmental waste, and existing diaper-based monitoring systems are often seen with delayed response times and high costs. Therefore, there is a critical need for more advanced and sustainable alternatives.
Research aim: This study aims to develop and evaluate an "Intelligent Gas-Sensing Fecal Collection System". The goal is to provide an eco-friendly solution that utilizes biodegradable materials, real-time biosensing, and Bluetooth communication to improve caregiving efficiency, user hygiene, and patient dignity.
Methods: The system integrates a reusable sensor module featuring a semiconductor for detection of fecal gases, Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) transmission, and a biodegradable collection bag composed of pineapple leaf fibers and polylactic acid (PLA). The proposed system's performance was evaluated through laboratory gas exposure tests and a usability trial involving 30 caregivers.
Results: Laboratory tests confirmed that the sensor detected 1 ppm of ammonia within 60 seconds, triggering an immediate wireless notification. In the usability trial, the proposed system demonstrated considerable potential for caregiving efficiency improvement, achieving an 87% reduction in caregiver workload and a 75% decrease in cleaning time. Furthermore, 83% of caregivers reported enhanced patient dignity and comfort.
Conclusion: The smart fecal collection system offers an effective and sustainable solution for senior care. By reducing labor intensity, the proposed system demonstrates high clinical potential. Future work will focus on scaling production, optimizing in IT infrastructure, and integrating AI-based predictive analytics.Keywords: smart senior care, fecal collection, biosensor, sustainability, gerontechnology
Fu-Jung Chuang, Yueh-Heng Chiu, Chia-Hsin Chen (2026). Development of an intelligent gas-sensing fecal collection system for bedridden and incontinent people: A sustainable approach to smart seniors care. Gerontechnology, 25(4), 1-5
https://doi.org/10.4017/gt.2026.25.4.1667.6