Pete Middleton, a resident of Northamptonshire, UK, is a passionate technology enthusiast. His journey with computing began during his Royal Air Force service in the 1980s. There, he learned to program in multiple languages and developed a lifelong interest in technology. Recently, he has embraced AI for photo editing, message translation, and research.
Now retired, Middleton leads a busy life as a lived-experience consultant, committee member, and Alzheimer’s Society volunteer. He also runs a blog about dementia. Since being diagnosed with dementia at age 65, Middleton has noticed changes in his short-term memory. He jokes, “I can still write apps for mobile phones, but I can’t remember where I put my telephone.”
Middleton believes AI can address many of the challenges dementia presents. He explains, “If people can integrate AI into their lives, it will boost their self-respect and independence, allowing them to stay out of the NHS system and care homes for longer.”
Emerging AI Tools for Dementia Support
Several AI-based tools aim to assist people living with dementia. One example is Simon, an app that uses geo-tracking and machine learning to support users. Fiona Carragher, Alzheimer’s Society’s director of research, explains, “It can remind users of their bank PIN when they’re at the bank.” Currently, Simon is in beta testing.
Another key initiative is the Florence Project, which develops communication technologies for people with dementia. Professor Janet Wiles from the University of Queensland emphasizes the goal of enhancing, not replacing, communication between dementia patients, their families, and caregivers. The Florence Project includes a Living Experience Expert Panel of dementia patients and caregivers to ensure user-friendly product design.
The project has created three devices: a diary, a music player, and a digital photo frame. These devices prioritize simplicity and usability, featuring physical controls like knobs and buttons. Family members can update the devices both locally and remotely, with user consent.
AI customizes these devices to meet users’ individual needs. Each user’s responses to questions and conversations help tailor the displayed information. For instance, the diary may show a new carer’s photo along with their arrival time, and updates adjust as the user’s needs evolve.
Wiles highlights the importance of a cautious development approach, noting, “The consequences of technology malfunctioning for people with dementia can be far more severe than for others.” She stresses that data privacy and security must be priorities in these technologies.
AI Robots and Human Interaction in Dementia Care
AI chatbots are being incorporated into companion robots to support dementia care. One example is Hiro-chan, a soft, huggable therapy robot designed to reduce stress in dementia patients. Researchers are working to integrate ChatGPT into these robots. The robots are equipped with speakers and microphones while maintaining a weight under 800 grams.
Initial tests with dementia patients in care homes revealed that simple dialogues were more engaging than expected. Hidenobu Sumioka, a roboticist at Kyoto’s Advanced Telecommunications Research Institute, highlights this finding. However, Fiona Carragher cautions that AI should enhance care, not replace human interaction. “AI should benefit people with dementia and their caregivers in meaningful ways,” she states.
Dennis Frost, a retired programmer on the Florence Project’s Living Experience Expert Panel, emphasizes the importance of social engagement. He asserts, “We should prioritize increasing human interaction over AI interaction. After all, would an AI actually care if I lived or died?”
Middleton sees AI’s potential but stresses the need for adaptability in technology for people with dementia. “No two people with dementia are the same,” he points out. “What works for me might not work for my neighbor. Developers must focus on the specific stages of dementia and align their products with individuals’ abilities.”