Title : Digital techniques and mitigation of dementia
Abstract:
In the modern world, electronic devices are utilized by all to alleviate issues and improve efficiency and well-being. Examples include reminders set on smartphones, which allow humans to remember tasks to complete, and phones making it feasible to call or text others to communicate. Those with Dementia can also use electronic devices, and certain digital techniques can mitigate symptoms. Dementia is a severe disease that threatens the aging population, and is not only debilitating to the individual, but also to their social circle, including family and friends. Symptoms of Dementia include loss of cognitive functions such as critical thinking skills, memory, issues communicating, poor coordination, etc., and is estimated to affect 7.2 million Americans and over 55 million people globally in 2025. This presentation will go on to discuss several of these technological techniques, including mobile device-based electronic games and immersive virtual reality, and how they are able to mitigate symptoms of dementia. Mobile device-based electronic games and those specifically created for the treatment of dementia are very successful in the mitigation of symptoms. During some games, data is collected from keyboard input and mouse movement to create a cognitive assessment of people with dementia. Other games combine different types of therapy to help treat symptoms, such as music therapy or reminiscence therapy. Both improve certain cognitive functions. Immersive virtual reality is still a relatively new type of electronic game play and treatment, but thus far has proven to be a valuable tool in improving the quality of life and well- being of those with dementia.
