A Generative AI Framework for Cognitive Intervention in Older Adults: An Integrated Engineering Design and Clinical...

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Artificial Intelligence
• Cognitive Science

Background:

• Digital exclusion is a risk factor for cognitive decline in older adults.
• High dropout rates in digital interventions stem from low digital literacy and technology anxiety.
• Limited adaptation to individual states hinders real-world transfer of digital interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present the Coach-Teacher-Companion (CTC) Framework, a tri-agent generative AI system.
• To explore the feasibility of adaptive cognitive interventions for older adults with digital access.
• To provide guidelines for safe clinical application of AI-based cognitive interventions.

Main Methods:

• The CTC Framework integrates three AI agents for behavioral, cognitive, and emotional support.
• The system embeds cognitive exercises into daily activities and monitors emotional states.
• Safeguards include digital literacy assessment, anxiety monitoring, emotional safety protocols, and data privacy.

Main Results:

• A six-week feasibility study (n=14) will evaluate usability, user experience, and psychological needs.
• The study will also assess emotional safety, adherence, and preliminary cognitive outcomes.
• Primary outcome is usability measured by the System Usability Scale.

Conclusions:

• The CTC Framework offers methodological and ethical safeguards for clinical implementation.
• Standardized procedures address digital literacy, anxiety, emotional safety, and data privacy.
• Further studies are needed to validate the framework's feasibility and efficacy.