AI can create “cognitive prosthetics” for people living with dementia

Earlier this year, Ian Bolland, Editor at Med-Tech Innovation News and host of MedTalk Podcast welcomed Simon Lord, Head of Innovation at the Alzheimer’s Society and George MacGinnis, Healthy Ageing Challenge Director at Innovate UK onto the podcast.

The three met to discuss research conducted by the prize, finding that two-thirds of GPs across the UK would like to prescribe assistive technology to people living with dementia to help them remain independent and in their own homes for longer. 

A need for solutions now

Both George and Simon acknowledged that while there have been exciting advances in drug development (both Lecanemab and Donanemab promise to slow progression of the disease), doctors need ‘weapons in their arsenal’ to help people with dementia right now. 

With data showing global dementia cases are set to triple – 153 million are expected to be living with dementia by 2050 – we need to take advantage of technology-based solutions, while we wait for drug approval. 

The value of assistive technology 

Using technology to assist those living with dementia is not a new idea, but as Simon explained, many existing technologies focus on monitoring individuals, rather than empowering them.

These existing technologies will always play an important role, providing assurance for carers and loved ones, however they don’t directly benefit those living with dementia by promoting independence. 

More fulfilling lives at home

Nine-in-ten (88%) GPs believe people living with dementia who can live in their own homes will have more fulfilling lives, according to the survey, demonstrating why technology that promotes independence is so vital.

The Longitude Prize on Dementia is incentivising the development of new products that can do exactly this using artificial intelligence – acting as an ‘extension’ of the individual’s working brain, adapting to their needs and routine – or in Simon’s words becoming a ‘cognitive prosthetic’.

Innovations in the making 

A number of these ground-breaking solutions are already in development by the 24 prize semi-finalists announced last summer. 

George highlighted DAWN, an AI lighting system that keys into circadian rhythms – the natural 24-hour cycle of the body which is affected by light – and can impact severity of dementia symptoms. DAWN can assist with daily activities through lighting changes and reminders, lessening caregivers’ workload and helping to maintain user independence.

Simon talked about Amicus Brain Innovations, an interactive voice and text-assistive device that can help with aphasia or ‘broken speech’, a common condition associated with dementia. 

Listen to the full interview to hear about technology’s potential to help people at every stage of a dementia diagnosis. Although there is currently no cure for dementia, people can still live well for years with the right support.