Activity Emerges as a Leading Indicator of Resident Outcomes in Skilled Nursing, New Study Finds
Independent analysis shows significant reductions in falls and hospital days using passive monitoring technology
[Cumberland, MD] — Gravity Consulting today announced the results of an independent 2024–2025 research study evaluating the impact of passive activity monitoring technology on resident outcomes in a skilled nursing setting.
The study, conducted at St. John’s Lutheran Community in Albert Lea, Minnesota, examined the use of the Zemplee passive monitoring platform and its effect on fall rates, hospital utilization, and care coordination.
Findings from the study indicate a strong correlation between continuous activity monitoring and improved resident outcomes. Residents utilizing the platform experienced nine times fewer falls compared to those not using the system. In addition, unwitnessed falls were eight times more common among residents without monitoring.
The study also found that residents supported by the platform recorded 42% fewer hospital days—a key metric increasingly tied to value-based purchasing performance.
“These findings reinforce what many providers are beginning to recognize—activity is one of the most powerful leading indicators we have in skilled nursing,” said Melissa Brown, Chief Operating Officer of Gravity Consulting. “When care teams can see changes in resident behavior and mobility in real time, they can intervene earlier, prevent decline, and ultimately improve outcomes.”
The Zemplee platform provides passive, continuous monitoring of resident movement and activity patterns, giving clinical teams—including therapists and nursing staff—actionable insights into changes that may signal increased risk.
According to the study, care teams used these insights to identify residents at risk for falls or decline earlier than traditional observation methods would allow. This enabled more timely clinical interventions and improved coordination across interdisciplinary teams.
As reimbursement models continue to shift toward outcome-based performance, metrics such as falls and hospitalizations are playing an increasingly significant role in financial outcomes for skilled nursing providers.
“The ability to proactively identify risk—not just respond to it—is becoming essential in a value-based environment,” Brown added. “Tools that support earlier intervention and better coordination are no longer optional—they’re becoming foundational to how high-performing facilities operate.”
The independent analysis was conducted by Gravity Consulting as part of its ongoing work supporting skilled nursing and senior living providers in improving clinical and operational performance.
About Gravity Consulting
Gravity Consulting is a healthcare consulting firm focused on solving the operational and clinical challenges facing skilled nursing, senior living, and home health providers. The firm specializes in therapy management, reimbursement optimization, compliance, and performance improvement strategies that drive measurable results in a value-based care environment.