RESEARCHERS IN U.K., CHENNAI, EXPLORE USE OF AI AND SOCIAL ROBOTS FOR EARLY DEMENTIA DETECTION AND SUPPORT

The research seeks to use voice recognition and “social robots” to detect early signs of cognitive decline: the technology has the potential to identify changes in speech, like hesitation, difficulty finding words, or changes in inflection, that could signal the early stages of dementia, researchers said

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Dementia, a condition that affects millions worldwide, has become a challenge of significant concern as the global population ages. Traditionally, care for dementia has relied heavily on medication, therapy, and the support of family and caregivers. However, now, the approach to dementia care is beginning to evolve in unexpected ways.

Researchers are exploring how technology, particularly robotics and Artificial Intelligence (AI), can play a deeper role in supporting human care.

Though still in its early stages, a notable example is the collaboration between Imperial College London and the Chennai-based Schizophrenia Research Foundation (SCARF), where a team is investigating how social robots could aid those living with dementia. The aim of this research is not only to provide companionship, but also to detect early signs of cognitive decline.

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Use of social robots

The research seeks to use voice recognition and “social robots” to detect early signs of cognitive decline. Social robots are those that interact and communicate with humans by following social behaviors and rules. According to Ravi Vaidyanathan, professor in biomecharonics at Imperial College London, who leads the research, the idea is to engage people with dementia and use these interactions to monitor their cognitive health.