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A project developed by a team from Western Sydney University and Deakin University has been named one of five global finalists in the Longitude Prize on Dementia, securing a share of $2.9 million AUD.
The ‘MemoryAid’ device, designed to assist people living with dementia, is the only Aussie entry to make it to the finals. The research team received over $580,000 AUD to advance their project, which focuses on helping people maintain independence.
A Tool for Independence
Associate Professor Celia Harris, who leads the project at Western Sydney University’s MARCS Institute for Brain, Behaviour and Development, explained that MemoryAid is designed to be familiar and user-friendly. It looks like a traditional telephone but includes additional features to support daily living.
“MemoryAid is about empowering people living with dementia to keep doing what brings them meaning,” she said. “We wanted a device that people with dementia could use themselves, so they can stay connected and continue their daily activities.”
The device includes a screen for video calls, and making these calls is as simple as answering a ringing phone. MemoryAid also offers personalised reminders and the option to hear prompts from a pre-recorded voice of their choice. This allows users to receive support in a way that feels comfortable and recognisable.
Harris added, “Being recognised by the Longitude Prize shows the importance of co-designing solutions with the people who need them. We’re excited to keep working on MemoryAid so it can reach those who will benefit from it.”
Backed by Technology
Dr Simon Parker, Head of Major Projects at Deakin University’s Applied Ai Institute, said the technology behind MemoryAid works in the background to make life easier for users.
“The complexity in MemoryAid is invisible to the user,” he said. “The system simplifies things so people with dementia can focus on what’s most important to them.”
The team developed the device with input from people living with dementia, carers, and their families. Parker highlighted that technology must be adaptable to cognitive changes, including both good and bad days, and evolving support needs.
Personalisation is Key
Bobby Redman, a former psychologist diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia in 2016, is part of the MemoryAid Advisory Panel. She emphasised the importance of personalisation, saying that each person with dementia has unique needs.
“Some of us have memory issues, others like me have problems with sequencing. I might do things in the wrong order or skip steps,” she said. “Even though I use technology and live independently, I still need prompts.”
Redman stressed that familiar voices make a difference. “Siri or Alexa have voices we don’t know, so we might not respond. But a recording of my own voice feels like a prompt, not a command. I prefer that.”
She believes the ability to choose a voice—whether it’s your own or a carer’s—makes the device more effective. “If someone’s used to their carer’s voice, it’s great they can choose that option.”
Support for Carers
Bill Blair, who cared for his mother with dementia for 10 years, is also part of the advisory panel. He sees MemoryAid as a way to support both the person living with dementia and their carers.
“I wish I had this when I started looking after my mum. There was nothing back then,” he said. “Carers go through a lot, and this kind of support could help them manage transitions and keep the person connected.”
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Blair believes the device is particularly useful for maintaining social connections, something often lost as dementia progresses.
Longitude Prize on Dementia
The Longitude Prize on Dementia encourages the development of assistive technologies that use Ai to help people with dementia remain independent.
With a history spanning over 300 years, the prize rewards innovation in tackling tough problems. Funded by Alzheimer’s Society and Innovate UK, the $8.5 million AUD prize is delivered by Challenge Works.
The five finalists, including the MemoryAid team, will share $2.9 million AUD to develop their solutions. In early 2026, one finalist will be awarded the top prize of $1.9 million AUD after a final judging process.
For more information, visit the official website of the Longitude Prize on Dementia.
Last Updated on October 10, 2024 by Nick Ross
