13 year-old Kevin Tang creates home fall-detection system to protect his grandmother

Kevin Tang, a 13-year-old eighth-grader from Southern California, created FallGuard, a fall-detection system designed to protect his grandmother and other older adults. Kevin was inspired after his grandmother suffered a fall at home five years earlier; no one noticed immediately, and by the time help arrived, she was left with permanent brain damage. When a friend’s grandfather later experienced a similar fall, Kevin realized how common and dangerous these situations are.

To address this problem, Kevin developed a camera-based monitoring system connected to a small computer. He programmed an algorithm capable of identifying falls by detecting body positions—such as shoulder and elbow joint placement—and added adjustments so the device could also function at night. Unlike wearable devices that require charging or can be forgotten, FallGuard works continuously without the need for users to remember to wear anything. It also does not rely on subscription fees.

The system currently costs about US$90 in materials, and Kevin is working to reduce the cost to around US$30 by using a different computer. FallGuard is already installed in his family’s home and in another household, and more than ten families are on a waiting list to use it. After presenting his project at the 3M Young Scientist Challenge, Kevin won the title of “America’s Top Young Scientist” along with a US$25,000 prize. A security camera company has also expressed interest in the invention, and many people have contacted the family asking for access to the device.

Adapted from:
https://eu.usatoday.com/story/life/health-wellness/2025/10/26/13-year-ol...
https://youngscientistlab.com/annual-challenge/finalists-mentors-judges/...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z3DZwqKdnmo