News
8 August, 2024
AI against dementia
A groundbreaking research initiative is revolutionising mealtime experiences for individuals with dementia through the use of artificial intelligence (AI).
Titled “What Would You Like to Eat? Supporting Residents with Dementia to Participate in Mealtime Decisions,” this innovative project involves a collaboration between The University of Queensland, the University of Sunshine Coast (UniSC), and the non-profit organisation Lutheran Services, with residents at Lutheran Services’ St Paul’s Aged Care in Caboolture participating in the project.
The research, spearheaded by Dr Tricia King, a photography lecturer at UniSC, aims to leverage AI to create visual prompts that help dementia patients recall food memories and make informed meal choices.
Initially launched at Immanuel Gardens Aged Care, the study has expanded to several Lutheran Services sites, including St Paul’s Caboolture, Woodridge, and Laidley. “
The early phases of this research are proving successful,” Dr King said.
“We work with participants to understand their meal preferences and food memories, then use AI to generate images of meals tailored to their tastes.
“We assess their reactions to these images, noting their preferences for presentation aspects like lighting and food appearance.”
The ultimate goal is to develop an AI-generated visual menu that will assist individuals in making meal choices.
Dr King envisions this tool as a means to enhance communication and decision-making for those with dementia.
Tricia Davis, Lutheran Services’ Executive Lead for Aged Care and Quality, highlighted the project’s significance for improving resident wellbeing.
“This research addresses a crucial need, as cognitive decline increases the risk of malnutrition. It complements our commitment to high-quality dining experiences,” she said.
The research also explores creating an app with AI-generated images to support communication as residents’ cognitive abilities diminish.
Dr King said it was an exciting prospect to integrate photography with AI.
“This project represents a significant step forward in using technology to engage individuals with cognitive impairments, and we are optimistic about its potential impact,” she said.
