Health News

Meet Viv: an AI character fostering companionship for people with dementia

Published

5 months ago

11 December 2023

Liam

Meet Viv: an AI character fostering companionship for people with dementia

UNSW Sydney

With a view to improving the lives of people living with dementia, UNSW researchers have come up with a world-first: an AI driven companion.

Viv is candid about the “rollercoaster” of living with dementia. She speaks gently. “It can be confusing and disorienting and at times downright scary, but there are also beautiful moments of connection and joy amidst the challenges,” she says.

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“Those moments of connection … They are truly precious. You see even though my memory may fail me at times, the heart remembers.”

In 2022, the AIHW estimated that there were 401,300 Australians living with dementia. It is a growing issue in health and aged care in Australia that has significant impact on quality of life for people living with dementia and for their family and friends.

Viv’s experience reflects that of many people living with dementia with one significant difference. Viv is an artificially intelligent (AI) character. She is part of a suite of digital characters being developed by the fEEL ARC Laureate Lab at UNSW Sydney to foster companionship for people living with dementia.

“Viv and Friends was co-created with women living with dementia – using their words, insights and experiences – to empathically understand the experience of dementia diagnosis and living with hallucinations,” says Dr Gail Kenning, a lead researcher from fEEL. Dr Kenning’s research examines how creativity can support health and wellbeing, with a particular focus on ageing and dementia.

“Like the women who co-created her, Viv experiences various dementia-related symptoms. She is insightful and reflective, finding her way in the world, living her life and coming to terms with neurological change.

“The companion characters can talk peer to peer about dementia or because they’re AI-driven, they can be programmed to share a person’s interests. So, Viv could talk to them about gardening, for example,” she says. “They can also help calm people if they are overstimulated or emotionally dysregulated or motivate them if they are feeling apathetic.”

“The companion characters can talk peer to peer about dementia,” says Dr Kenning. “They can also help calm people if they are overstimulated or emotionally dysregulated.”

The origins of Viv

Co-designing arts-based interventions with and for people with lived experience is central to the fEEL Lab’s ethos. Led by ARC Laureate Scientia Professor Jill Bennett, it brings together specialists in immersive media, participatory design, trauma studies and psychology to explore the embodied subjective experiences of trauma and ageing.

Viv first came to life as a digital character based on four women with similar symptoms of vascular dementia.

“Originally, she was an audio-visual artwork who helped people understand dementia by drawing them into her story. And then she became a teaching tool for professionals working with people with dementia. And, now using AI character engine technology, like that developed for game design, Viv can interact with people in real-time,” says Prof. Bennett.

The Viv and Friends series, co-designed by fEEL research fellow Volker Kuchelmeister, builds on the kinds of connections we forge with characters on television series, Dr Kenning says. “Research has shown that people can develop socio-emotional bonds with characters that can affect their moods and behaviours in much the same way as direct, interpersonal contact can,” she says.

However, the fast pace and complex storylines of television can prove an obstacle for people living with dementia, she says. “Viv and Friends speak slowly, they are patient and unfazed by repetitious conversations, allowing people living with dementia to easily engage.”

While person-to-person contact is ideal, many people living in aged care have limited opportunities for social connection, she says. The companion characters are designed to enable meaningful communication and connection and help to combat feelings of isolation and loneliness through the simple pleasure of sharing a conversation or having a laugh.

Chatting with Viv.

A profound impact

“The characters don’t just provide companionship, they can also help with co-regulating emotion, as would happen with a human companion,” says Prof. Bennett. “This is very helpful when people living with dementia experience confusion or hallucinations.

One potential positive effect we envisage is in terms of offering a calming and soothing response when people are anxious or distressed. Without a calming or reassuring companion people may simply be offered sedating medication. This is a big window to provide the kind of emotional support that can help people manage anxiety through a relationship with an AI companion.”

And while some people express concern that the characters are being created to replace human relationships, that could never be the case, says Prof. Bennett. “They could never replace relationships people have with their children, or spouses. But they could do things your son or daughter isn’t present to do or doesn’t have the patience to do. And you could ask them questions or say things to them you would never say to your kids, a function many might appreciate.”

The future

Dr Kenning is currently taking Viv into a number of aged-care centres – both on a life-sized portrait screen and on iPads – to continue to explore ways Viv can be part of providing psycho-social support for those living with dementia.

“As screens are already available in both common spaces and private rooms in aged-care facilities, Viv will be well positioned to interact with the people living there,” says Dr Kenning.

“We will continue to develop Viv in the context of the space, including looking at ways that she can ground people in the moment within the rhythms of life in aged care, letting people know when it’s time for tea, or a meal, and the like,” says Dr Kenning.

Previously the focus on AI in aged care has been personalisation, but more recent research suggests that what’s important is a sense of connection.

“Viv’s ability to respond or join in a conversation is a powerful psycho-social support, and we are now starting the process of creating a male character, and others to expand the potential of Viv and Friends to improve the lives of those living with dementia,” says Dr Kenning.

The fEEL team are also creating companion characters to support people living with other diagnoses, including Huntington’s Disease.

For more seniors news, click here.

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Health News

New research partnership to tackle hearing loss

Published

4 days ago

15 May 2024

Liam

New research partnership to tackle hearing loss

An exciting new collaboration has been established between the Ear Science Institute Australia and the National Acoustic Laboratories (NAL), uniting Australia’s leading hearing researchers in a concerted effort to enhance treatments for the millions affected by hearing impairments.

National Acoustics Laboratories Director, Brent Edwards, emphasised the significance of the collaboration, stating, “This partnership harnesses the collective expertise of some of Australia’s most dedicated and forward-thinking hearing researchers, all committed to profoundly improving hearing healthcare globally.”

Hearing loss is among the world’s most prevalent health issues, with projections suggesting that by 2050 nearly 2.5 billion individuals will experience some form of hearing impairment. This partnership aims to foster substantial advancements in the quality of life for those affected by hearing loss, both in Australia and worldwide.

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By pooling their vast resources and data, both institutions are poised to transform hearing health care. The Ear Science Institute Australia, recognised globally as a for-purpose center of excellence, combines scientific research, medical innovation, and clinical practice to pioneer new treatments for ear and hearing conditions, ultimately striving to discover a cure for hearing loss.

Ear Science Institute’s CEO, Sandra Bellekom, commented on the future implications of the partnership, “Looking forward, this alliance with National Acoustic Laboratories opens new pathways for sharing knowledge, which will enhance the delivery of cutting-edge, personalised hearing solutions and expand access to superior hearing care for people around the world.”

For more health news, click here.

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Health News

Introduction of New Clinical Care Standard by ACSQHC to Address Psychotropic Medicine Use in Cognitive Disability and Impairment

Published

4 days ago

15 May 2024

Liam

Introduction of New Clinical Care Standard by ACSQHC to Address Psychotropic Medicine Use in Cognitive Disability and Impairment

By Jeff Gibbs

The Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care (the Commission) has today announced the launch of a pivotal new national standard aimed at enhancing the care for individuals with cognitive disabilities or impairments. The introduction of the Psychotropic Medicines in Cognitive Disability or Impairment Clinical Care Standard is a critical advancement in promoting safer and more effective treatment protocols across the healthcare spectrum.

Background and Rationale for the New Standard

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Recent decades have witnessed a 60% surge in the prescription of psychotropic medications across Australia. Despite a modest reduction in antipsychotic use among the elderly—prompted by heightened awareness of associated risks—the prescribing rates remain alarmingly high, particularly among vulnerable populations. Notably, older individuals and those residing in aged care facilities are disproportionately affected by the adverse effects of these medications, including cognitive decline, heightened risk of falls, strokes, and mortality. Additionally, approximately one-third of individuals with intellectual disabilities are prescribed psychotropic drugs, exposing them to potentially severe short and long-term side effects.

Scope and Impact of the Standard

The new Standard seeks to mitigate the inappropriate utilisation of psychotropic medications and emphasises patient safety. It priorities non-pharmacological interventions as the foremost approach for managing challenging behaviours such as aggression and agitation. Psychotropic medications are advised as a last-resort measure, following the ineffectiveness of alternative strategies or in situations posing significant risk to the individual or others.

The Standard advocates for tailored non-medication strategies that respect the individual’s needs and preferences, developed in consultation with their family and other authorised caregivers. This approach underscores the commitment to upholding the dignity and autonomy of individuals with cognitive impairments.

Expert Insights and Support

Key health experts have endorsed the significance of this new Standard. Conjoint Associate Professor Carolyn Hullick, Chief Medical Officer at the Commission, stresses the necessity for mindful prescribing practices given the limited benefits and substantial risks associated with psychotropic medications in this demographic. Professor Julian Trollor from the University of New South Wales and Juanita Breen from the University of Tasmania also highlight the importance of objective-driven prescribing, continuous monitoring, and the potential to reduce medication dosages in favour of non-pharmacological alternatives.

Implementation Across Settings

The Standard is applicable universally across various healthcare settings, including hospitals, aged care facilities, and community services, ensuring that individuals with cognitive disabilities receive consistent and coordinated care irrespective of the setting.

Professor Eddy Strivens emphasises the need for coordinated efforts and effective communication, particularly during care transitions, to maintain continuity and efficacy of treatment plans and to support decision-making processes that honour patient autonomy.

Collaborative Efforts for Enhanced Care

In a collective endeavour to address these issues, the Commission has collaborated with the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission and the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission to issue a Joint Statement against the misuse of psychotropics in managing behaviours in disabled and elderly populations.

Conclusion

The introduction of the Psychotropic Medicines in Cognitive Disability or Impairment Clinical Care Standard marks a significant step forward in improving the quality of care and safety for Australians with cognitive disabilities or impairments. It aligns with ongoing efforts to reform health care, aged care, and disability support systems across the nation.

The complete Standard and accompanying resources are available on the Commission’s website here.

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Education

National Walk Safely to School Day Turns 25

Published

1 week ago

9 May 2024

Liam

National Walk Safely to School Day Turns 25

As National Walk Safely to School Day approaches on Friday, 10 May 2024, primary school-aged children across Australia are encouraged to lace up their shoes for a walk towards a healthier future. Celebrating its 25th anniversary, this initiative, championed by the Pedestrian Council of Australia, highlights the myriad benefits of walking and other forms of active transportation, particularly to and from school.

This annual event not only emphasises physical health but also aims to improve road safety, reduce environmental impact, and promote the use of public transport to lessen car dependency near schools. Harold Scruby, Chairman and CEO of the Pedestrian Council of Australia, emphasises the importance of adult supervision for children under 10 when crossing the street, reinforcing the safety aspect of the campaign.

“Walk Safely to School Day is a great opportunity to teach our kids about the benefits of physical activity,” said Scruby. He also pointed to the worrying statistics of childhood obesity, which affects one in four children at critical levels across the nation, according to the latest ABS National Health Survey results from 2017-18. “The best form of physical activity for all Australians is walking regularly. Children need at least 60 minutes of physical activity a day,” he added.

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The day is not just about walking; it also encourages schools and parent groups to host healthy breakfast events to start the day nutritiously. This initiative supports the dual goals of fostering healthful eating habits and providing social interaction within the school community.

As the event marks a significant milestone, schools across Australia are gearing up to participate more actively than ever. Parents, teachers, and caregivers are encouraged to get involved, not only to support their children but also to take part in making walking a regular part of their daily routine.

This initiative plays a crucial role in mitigating traffic congestion around school areas, promoting environmental stewardship, and fostering a sense of community. Everyone in the community is invited to support the initiative, helping to instil healthy habits in children that can lead to lifelong benefits.

For more information on how to participate in National Walk Safely to School Day, visit the Pedestrian Council of Australia’s website or contact your local school to see what activities are planned for the day. Join the movement on 10 May and help make a difference in the lives of young Australians.

For more Education news, click here.

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