Sunday, November 26, 2017

Critical reflection

Critical Reflection

Over the course of the past weeks of the module, I have learnt so much regarding communication, be it written or spoken. Examples being able to write more professionally, and to work as an effective team player.

Looking back at the first blogpost entry, I described myself as a confident speaker and an effective writer when it comes to technical reports. That is mainly because I came from a business course before joining SIT, where such presentations and report assignments were commonplace. At the very start of the lesson I thought there was not much else I could gain in terms of communication.

However, towards the end of the module, I couldn’t be more have been more grateful, for all the friends I have made, as well as all the knowledge I have gained. I have to work as a team player for my group, Eldervists, where we spent so much time together, trying to complete the project to the best of our efforts. I have thus learnt thorough the project that everyone has their own areas of expertise, and there is always something we can learn from another.

Thinking back, I was extremely complacent and conceited. It is only after the classes in Effective Communication, where I discovered I have so much to improve on, namely my presentation skills and eloquence. It will be something that I will continue to strive to improve on.

The past paragraphs were just ramblings of what I have learnt from the module. The main takeaway from the module for me however, is simply that communication extends beyond just writing and speaking well. It is the ability to connect with others, and to uphold professionalism in the way we present ourselves.

Analytical reflection

Analytical Reflection on my presentation

Tracing back to the first reflection I have done, I mentioned that I have stage fright, where I feel anxiety whenever I had to present or speak in front of a group of people. The anxiety experienced could escalate to becoming a major problem when I was presenting, such as stuttering, or even have a mental blank out.

During the actual presentation as a member of Eldervist for our project, the same situation occurred again. I was too anxious to a point I blanked out, and I lost my train of though. I stood there for what felt like hours, calming myself and trying to recollect my thoughts and composure. Eventually, I got a grip of the situation, and managed to continue despite the earlier mishap.

After the presentation, I cannot help but feel disappointed in both myself and my performance, as I was not expecting to make the same blunder as I did before. I thought I had improved since, and would be able to deliver my presentation with eloquence and professionalism. However, after reflecting on the presentation, I felt that it was alright to make such mistakes, as long as I continue to strive to improve myself in the years to come. There will be many more opportunities in the future, and I should prepare myself for ones that have yet to come, rather than to dwell in the ones that are over.

I believe the two primary improvements I have to make are being more confident when I am speaking or presenting in front of an audience, and also to be more prepared in terms of the content of my presentation, as well as to be mindful of my body language while I am presenting and speaking.

Reader's response draft 4

In the article “Duo turned plastic waste into concrete”, Goy (2016) claims that scientists from BlueRen have come up with new and innovative way to transform plastic wastes into carbon nanotubes. Carbon nanotubes can be utilized as an additive to concrete, to reduce the use of cement. Traditional methods of producing carbon nanotubes are very limited, due to the high costs and the creation of toxic gases. BlueRen, however, has innovated a new way of production that is much more environmentally sustainable and it hopes to commercialise its new technology. Nanotechnology can be used in various ways that would benefit the environment that were not mentioned by the author.

Nanotechnology has come up with enhanced solutions to various environmental issues, mainly regarding the field of water quality and drinkability. Battachara (2012) states that nanotechnology can solve problems like the inadequacy of clean drinking water and the highly contaminated waters. Prevailing method of purification of water through chemical treatment is extremely pricey, and is damaging to the environment. Scientists hence turn to nanotechnology as an alternative to resolve the issue, as they can detect pollutants, treat contaminants and prevent pollution. As such, nanotechnology proves to be a superior solution to the issue of water purification.

Another example of how nanotechnology can be beneficial to the environment is how it can also be used in to clean oil spills efficiently. The article “Nanotechnology and the Environment” explains that current methods of cleaning oil spills include the usage of sorbents and chemical dispersants. However, said methods are not adequate to clear up massive oil spills. Nanotechnology on the other hand are capable of clearing up bigger oil spills with the help of nano wire membrane and carbon nano structures. Hence, solutions developed from nanotechnology are much more effective in comparison.

From the above examples, it is clear that nanotechnology can indeed be beneficial to the environment in many ways, and it can prove to be extremely advantageous in areas where many other resolutions are incapable of. Thus, there should be more emphasis and attention on companies like BlueRen, which can speed up the development of nanotechnology, and the production of solutions and products based off nanotechnology.

The boon that nanotechnology presents is extremely prominent. However, it does come with drawbacks as well. Firstly, as mentioned in Goy’s article, the process of upcycling plastics to nanotubes produces toxic gases. Even though BlueRen’s efforts helped in minimising the amount, the exact difference of toxic gas being produced has not been acknowledged. Hence, even with BlueRen’s new technology, the rate of toxic gas being created could continue to be alarming. Moreover, Zhang (2011) also discusses other shortcomings of nanotechnology, such as the high energy that is needed to produce nano particles, resulting in huge increase in demand for energy.

There is no questioning the reality that nanotechnology can bring forth a much more sustainable environment in the world, and the benefits that it brings are apparent. Furthermore, Nanotechnology will continue to develop and improve, and it may eventually progress into becoming a technology that the environment cannot do without.


References

Battachara, P. (2012). Environmental Effects of Nanotechnology. Azonano.

Goy, P. (2016). Duo turn plastic waste into a concrete idea. The Straits Times.

Zhang, B. (2011). Environmental Impacts of Nanotechnology and Its Products.

Nanowerk (n.a.).  Nanotechnology and the Environment. 




Last edited, 26 Oct 2017

Technical report improvements

This is posted after the final draft of the technical report has been submitted.
The following are areas of the technical report that i felt could be improved.

Executive summary

The report aims to highlight the importance of having an emergency alert device in the homes of Singaporean elderly citizens, and the limitations and risks of not having them. The report will explore different types of alert systems that are already in the market, and suggest one to be implemented, namely iHelp Adult GPS Tracker Device. The selection is made through careful considerations based on their functions and features.

Report will also suggest way to run trials with the selected medical emergency system, to test its effectiveness and reliability. Additionally, the report will continue to explain the rationale of the implementation of the model and describe how it will be implemented.

Research was conducted to ensure that the selection of the emergency alert system is comprehensive, and to make sure that the proposal is feasible and beneficial. Primary research include interview with elderly, to have a clearer understanding of the prominent problems faced by them, and to gather constructive input to decide on the most vital features that an emergency alert system should possess.

Purpose statement

The purpose of this proposal is to describe the different types of emergency alert systems in the market and promote the optimal system. The selected alert system will be recommended to Ministry of Social and Family Development, and propose a trial to test the feasibility of the selected product. Thus, the proposal is submitted in hopes of it being sold or distributed to elderly or their family in need. 

Wednesday, November 8, 2017

Technical report draft 2

Letter of transmittal

Date: 20th October 2017
From: Ho Yong Quan
To: Ministry of Social and Family Development
Cc: Brad Blackstone
Subject: Proposal to distribute Emergency Alert System

Dear Ministry of Social and Family Development,
I am Yong Quan, and I am part of Eldervists, a project group from Singapore Institute of Technology, consisting of three year-one students in sustainable infrastructure engineering.

As a project for one of our modules, SIE2016 Effective Communication, we are tasked to identify and come up with a solution for the identified issue. After careful deliberation, our project group decided to focus on elderly, specifically the risks that elderly bear when they are alone at home if there are no alert systems present in the house. Our primary focus would be on the potential problems that could arise and solutions that would resolve said problems.

Attached is a detailed proposal on the matter, which comprises of an introduction of our focus, the analysis of the issue, the problems it could pose and a comprehensive solution to the concerns. The proposal is completed with thorough and up to date research, in hopes of determining the best resolution to the matter.

Please do not hesitate to contact us if there are any queries, or require further information. We will assist you to the best of our efforts.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Best regards,
Ho Yong Quan
Singapore Institute of Technology
Contents page

Biodata

Name: Ho Yong Quan

Yong Quan is currently a first-year student in Singapore Institute of Technology, pursuing a degree in sustainable infrastructure engineering, and has a diploma in business administration from Singapore Polytechnic. Welfare of the elderly is his top priority, and he is extremely keen to assist them with his best efforts..
Name: Glenna Woo Wan Tian

Glenna Woo is a first year student in Singapore Institute of Technology, pursuing a degree in sustainable infrastructure engineering (building services), and has a diploma in hotel and leisure facilities management from Ngee Ann Polytechnic. Growing up with her grandparents and witnessing incidents that happen when they are alone at home, Glenna sees a need for the elderly to receive medical attention when needed.
Name: Yeo Jie Ming

Jie Ming is currently a first-year student in Singapore Institute of Technology, pursuing a degree in sustainable infrastructure engineering (land). He believes that he can bring elderly the confidence to spend their days alone at home with or without supervision as going to a nursing home might not be an option for some of them.

 

 

 



 





Executive summary

The report aims to highlight the importance of having an emergency alert device in the homes of elderly citizens, and the drawbacks and risks of not having them. The report will explore different types of alert systems that are already in the market, and to choose one to be implemented in our proposal. The selection criteria include will be discussed in the proposal.

Upon selection, there will be a proposal to run trials with the selected model, to test the effectiveness and reliability of the medical emergency system. The report will continue to explain the rationale of the implementation and describe how it will be implemented.

Extensive researches were conducted to ensure that the selection of the emergency alert system is comprehensive, and to make sure that the proposal is feasible and beneficial. Primary research include interview with elderly, to have a clearer understanding of the prominent problems faced by them, and to gather constructive input to decide on the most vital features that an emergency alert system should possess.



















Introduction

On average, Low (2012) quoted that about one in four elderly above the age of 65 in Singapore will suffer a fall. Of those who fell, two-thirds had a single fall and one-third had recurrent falls. Khalik (2015) also reported that close to 100 elderly were admitted to hospital every month because of an injury from a fall. Sollitto (2017) further explains the reasons why elderly are more prone to falling or slipping. Namely their decline in physical fitness, the effects of medication, impaired vision and chronic diseases.

With the heightened risks of falling, there should be more precautions in ensuring the wellbeing of elderly, especially elderly living alone. With no one present to look after them, the emergency alert system would do well to keep them safe, in an event of a fall.

 Figure 1: Crude rate unintentional falls based on age group
                                                       
Table 2: Resident Households by Age Group of Head and Household Living Arrangement, Year 2010 to 2015

The results of both figure X and Y are alarming and dangerous, and we can conclude that the factors related to the risks of elderly injury are increasing exponentially. With more elderly staying alone over the years, the peril of fatal injuries involving elderly increases directly, as the number of elderly exposed to the risk rises.

However, majority of senior citizens in Singapore whom are at risk, do not own the product. It will thus result in higher risks of fatal injuries, or even death. An emergency alert system that allows elderly to call for aid is extremely vital, and could very possibly be the one equipment that could save their lives.




Problem statement

An emergency alert device should be implemented for the elderly to ensure that they are safe in the case of an actual medical emergency. The majority of the elderly who spend most of their time at home alone do not have any form of emergency alert system. Without it, the elderly will continue to be at risk of not getting emergency attention or help in times of desperate need. An emergency alert device sends distress signals to their caregivers or nearby hospitals when the device detects a fall, or if the signal is sent directly from the elderly. This will allow the elderly to receive medical attention promptly.

Purpose statement

The purpose of this proposal is to explore the different types of emergency alert systems in the market and select the optimal system. The selected alert system will be recommended to Ministry of Social and Family Development, in hopes of it being sold or distributed to elderly or their family in need.

The proposal thus wishes that the product becomes more popular and widely used throughout households with senior citizens  in Singapore, to minimise the rate of fatal accidents occurring in households when the elderly are alone in the house.




Proposed solution

The proposed solution is to recommend a wearable emergency alert device for senior citizens who spend most of their time alone at home. This is to ensure that they are always equipped with the device to receive assistance from caregivers when emergencies occur. Caregivers can range from family members, trained professionals to volunteers.


Considerations and selection

The optimal emergency alert system should consist of the following five criteria:

  • Emergency button
The emergency button becomes handy, when seniors require help apart from falls. Examples could include other emergencies such as fire hazard or being generally unwell.

  • Global Positioning System (GPS)
GPS is essential, as it allows caregivers to easily and efficiently locate the whereabouts of the elder in times of medical emergency.

  • Long battery life
Long battery life is extremely favourable, simple because elderly may forget to charge their device from time to time. A longer battery life meant that they are protected for a prolonged amount of time, without new charges.

  • water resistance
Large number of falls occur in the bathroom, where it is often wet and slippery. Thus, it is advisable for the the device to be water resistant, as it would be unfortunate for it to malfunction in times of need.


Upon evaluating and weighing the functions and features, the emergency alert device that Eldervists have selected is the iHelp Adult GPS Tracker Device from OMG Solutions Pte Ltd which costs SGD $390. Refer to Appendix A and B for its specifications and dimensions.

Figure 3: iHelp Adult GPS Tracker Device

Benefits of Proposed Solution

Apart from the four functions and features that were mentioned above, iHelp Adult GPS Tracker Device possess even more advantages, that could benefit the user.

iHelp Adult GPS Tracker Device has an additional feature, named fall detection. It will automatically contact their respective caregivers when any fall or slippage is detected. This function is vital, as seniors may become unconscious or physically incapable of pressing the button to alert their caregivers. The detection utilises the accelerometer and gyroscope to identify a fall more accurately. Furthermore, it contains an in-built motionless detection, to sense any abnormality when no movement is detected for a set amount of time.

On top of that, iHelp Adult GPS Tracker Device provides a two-way communication through calls and text messages to up to five personnel with a press of the button. This allow the elder to be able to instantly voice their troubles in times of need, without the use of another device.

Lastly, the device is also linked onto mobiles devices through the application, DS Tracker, to allow family members or caregivers to know and track the whereabouts of the elderly, to effectively identify the location of the elder in an emergency. (Refer to Appendix C)

Drawbacks of Proposed Solution

Despite the long battery life, iHelp Adult GPS Tracker Device still has to be charged every 2 to 3 days. Elderly could forget about the device after charging it, which may put them at risk once again. Furthermore, because of the miniature size of the device, senior citizens may risk losing it.

iHelp Adult GPS Tracker Device operates using prepaid card or post-paid plan, which requires regular topping up when the amount runs low. Thus, caregivers will have to constantly check the available amount to ensure the device is still has enough value to be used properly.

Implementation

To evaluate the effectiveness of the selected alert device, there will be a trial programme. 25 elderly would be selected to participate in the trial, where they will be equipped with the alert device for for a month. There will be an assessment once every 2 weeks to collect various feedbacks to determine the reliability of the selected alert device.

Figure (Please refer to Appendix D) shows and describes the time span of the entire trial programme, and the necessary actions to be taken.




Alternative solution

An alternative solution would be a wireless motion sensor which will be able to monitor senior citizens in real time and provide timely alert. Eldervists have chosen the Smart Activity Monitoring Service (SAMS) by M1 which will cost SGD $214 with a monthly subscriptions of SGD $14.66. SAMS works by monitoring the elder’s daily activities at home by using motion sensor detection and alerts the caregiver through text messages. SAMS consists of four main devices: wireless door sensor, wireless motion sensor, wireless portable panic button, and iNet mini smarthub. (Refer to Appendix E)
Figure 4. Operation of Smart Activity Monitoring Service (SAMS)

Benefits of Alternative Solution

The elder’s activity at home is monitored with wireless motion sensor and wireless door sensor.  Caregivers will be notified if the elderly is out of the house, or have been inactive for a long time as there could be a possibility of an emergency that requires immediate attention. Footages of the elder’s activities around the house are also recorded, to allow caregivers or families to identify any oddities present in the apartment.

Similar to iHelp Adult GPS Tracker Device, it has an in-built emergency button, that allows quick response from caregivers in an event of an emergency.

Limitations of Alternative Solution

A household will require more than one wireless motion sensor as there are many rooms such as the kitchen or toilet, which may end up becoming costly. Furthermore, because of the post-paid nature of the plan that costs a monthly subscription of $14.66, the cost will continue to be incurred and in the long run, may become too expensive.

SAMS requires an internet connection to function. Hence, when the internet connection is down, the elderly will be unable to alert the caregivers when emergencies occur. Regular maintenance has to be conducted as well to keep the system in good working condition.




Methodology

Two different methods of research, primary and secondary, were conducted, to allow our team to have a better understanding on the matter.

Primary research

Interviews with elderly were conducted for us to have a clearer understanding of the problem. Interviews are highly effective because our team got to interact directly with elderly who are facing the problems themselves. The information from the interview were thus very insightful.

Copy of the questionnaire (see Appendix F) and sample interviews (see Appendix F to H) can be found in the appendix.  

Secondary research

Secondary researches were conducted to obtain essential information required for us to efficiently prepare for and complete the proposal. The information gathered allowed us to identify the problem, come up with plausible solutions, judge the current situation with statistics and more.

Web links of the research materials can be found under “References”, and certain tables and figures can be found in “Appendix”.





Conclusion

The absence of any form of emergency alert system in a household where elderly are often alone is extremely perilous. Elderly will have no one present to assist them, in an unfortunate event of a fall. The injury suffered could become fatal quickly, if help does not come on time.

Thus, to overcome and to prevent such instances from occurring, we recommend iHelp Adult GPS Tracker Device to be distributed to senior citizens who are living alone, or spend most of their time alone in their homes. Said device is selected, because it has a wide variety of features and functions, namely:

  • Fall detection
  • Emergency button
  • Global Positioning System (GPS)
  • Long battery life
  • water resistance

The application of the trail is also accurately planned, to ensure the dependability and practicality of the selected product.

With the implementation of the proposal, we hope the emergency alert system becomes more prominent in Singapore, and eventually becoming imperative for senior citizens. Hence, rate of fatal accidents occurring in households when the elderly are alone in the house will be greatly minimised, or entirely eliminated.




References

Appendix