A new startup company, based in ADAPT, the SFI Research Centre for AI-Driven Digital Content Technology at Trinity College Dublin, aims to improve the quality of life for individuals with mobility related illnesses. The startup secured over half a million euros in funding through the Enterprise Ireland Commercialisation Fund Programme. This programme supports third-level researchers in translating their research into innovative and commercially viable products, services and companies.
Led by Professor Vinny Wade, Chair of Artificial Intelligence at Trinity’s School of Computer Science and Statistics and former Director at ADAPT, the startup company will leverage advanced artificial intelligence (AI) to help people live independently at home for longer. Responding to the needs of individuals with mobility-related illnesses, the team aims to evelop an AI-driven voice assistant that can help detect early signs of cognitive decline and enable timely interventions that could delay or mitigate the symptoms of cognitive illnesses.
Speaking about the research startup, Professor Vinny Wade said: “The startup will combine innovative state of the art generative AI techniques with personalisation technology to deliver a voice based companion to assist older people live more easily at home or in sheltered accommodation. The GenAI voice based assistant will provide continuous care support as well as daily levels of companionship and voice assistance.”
Rebecca McManus, entrepreneur and the commercial lead for the startup said: “Our goal is to address key issues faced by patients, caregivers, and the healthcare system, including loneliness, medication management, cognitive decline, caregiver stress, and healthcare professional shortages. This Enterprise Ireland funding will significantly advance our efforts, enabling us to expend our team and prepare for full-scale commercialisation over the next 18 months.”
Voice enabled technology is particularly beneficial for individuals with tremors and other mobility related issues that find traditional devices challenging due to reduced fine motor skills. Key benefits of developing an AI-driven voice assistant include:
- Health Monitoring: Continuous monitoring of vital signs and detection of abnormalities.
- Daily Assistance: Reminders for medication, appointments, and daily tasks.
- Emergency Alerts: Real-time notifications in case of falls or accidents.
- Cognitive Support: Tools for memory enhancement and mental stimulation.
- Notifications: Real-time notifications for family members and healthcare professionals.
The team is responding to a global rise in mobility diseases such as Parkinson's Disease and early dementia which have more than doubled over the past 30 years. The number of people living with dementia worldwide is forecast to increase from approximately 60 million now to 150 million in 2050.
Opportunities to join the startup team can be found on the ADAPT Centre Careers page.