JACKSON, New Jersey - April 15, 2010 - Sensors installed in the Bella Terra assisted-living community in Jackson, New Jersey can immediately alert staff of out-of-pattern behavior that could help residents who've suffered falls or health issues.

Keeping the elderly safe and protected from falls becomes a major concern as our population ages, and one community has found that Big Brother may be the answer.

These seniors are leading busy, active lives, striking a balance between keeping their independence while always having assistance nearby.

Falls and injuries are always on the minds of workers at assisted living communities, but budgetary needs prevent overstaffing. There may, however, be an answer: a monitoring system that uses a series of sensors inside an apartment to keep a constant watch over residents.

"We're trying to keep residents safe, and trying to meet everyone's needs," Bride Forde-Lynch said.

Forde-Lynch is the head of nursing at Bella Terra. She oversaw the installation of the General Electric monitoring service in all 107 apartments six months ago and says it has been invaluable.

"We've saved at least two falls, identified a urinary tract infection, and a resident whose diabetes was also changing," Forde-Lynch said.