Storytelling AI Set to Improve Wellbeing of People with Dementia

Researchers at the National Robotarium, hosted by Heriot-Watt University and the University of Edinburgh, are developing an artificial intelligence (AI) companion that will aid memory recollection, boost confidence and combat depression in people living with Alzheimer's disease and other types of dementia. The idea for the ground-breaking'Agent-based Memory Prosthesis to Encourage Reminiscing' (AMPER) project originated from Dr. Mei Yii Lim, a co-investigator of the project and an experienced memory modelling researcher. Memory loss in people with Alzheimer's disease occurs in reverse chronological order, with pockets of long-term memory remaining accessible even as the disease progresses. While most current rehabilitative care methods focus on physical aids and repetitive reminding techniques, AMPER's AI-driven user-centred approach will focus on personalised storytelling to help bring a patient's memories back to the surface. Dr. Lim explains "AMPER will explore the potential for AI to help access an individual's personal memories residing in the still viable regions of the brain by creating natural, relatable stories. These will be tailored to their unique life experiences, age, social context and changing needs to encourage reminiscing."