Our experience with informative and communication technologies (ICT) in dementia.

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Neuroscience
• Health Informatics

Background:

• Cognitive impairment, including Subjective Cognitive Impairment (SCI), Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI), and Mild Dementia, poses significant challenges for patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals.
• Existing diagnostic and support methods often lack the integration and personalization needed for effective management.
• There is a growing need for innovative Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) solutions to enhance prediction, early diagnosis, monitoring, patient support, and stakeholder education.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and implement high-quality, next-generation ICT services for the comprehensive management of cognitive impairment.
• To explore novel methods for prediction, early diagnosis, and continuous monitoring of cognitive decline.
• To provide effective support for patients with cognitive impairment and education for all stakeholders.

Main Methods:

• Development of a novel system using motion detection, depth cameras, and intelligent objects to monitor Activities of Daily Living (ADL) and behavioral patterns.
• Utilizing a virtual supermarket (VSM) cognitive training game as a screening tool for MCI.
• Implementing web-based applications and 3D Virtual Reality (VR) serious games for cognitive tasks and exercises.
• Exploring the
• robot-programming-as-cognitive-training
• approach and investigating the benefits of combined physical and cognitive training.
• Developing integrated support systems like Symbiosis and utilizing distance education platforms with biofeedback for caregiver training.

Main Results:

• The VSM application demonstrated a Correct Classification Rate (CCR) of 87.30% for MCI screening, comparable to gold-standard neuropsychological tests.
• Combined physical and cognitive training showed a dose-responsive improvement in global cognition, though potentially less pronounced in mild dementia.
• ICT-based interventions, including VR and robot programming, show potential for cognitive enhancement and support.
• Caregiver training via distance education platforms significantly reduced depression, anxiety, and burden.

Conclusions:

• ICT offers a powerful toolkit for improving the prediction, early diagnosis, monitoring, and support of patients with cognitive impairment.
• Innovative approaches like VSM, VR, and adaptive support systems can enhance patient care and caregiver well-being.
• Integrated ICT solutions and accessible training platforms are crucial for a holistic approach to managing cognitive disorders.