William Brosnan, a secondary school student at Scoil Mhuire in Kanturk won the SciFest Junior Technologist of the Future Award in November and the BD STEM Stars Software Award last month for his Dementia Shield prototype.
His project utilises Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Augmented Reality (AR) with the aim of supporting quality of life for people living with dementia and potentially slowing down the progression of the disease by reducing anxiety and stress.
William built two applications that use AR smart glasses and AI to reduce anxiety and stress in social situations for people with dementia as the technology reminds the user what time it is, where they are, answers questions, recognises faces and provides gentle orientation supports.
“Together, these two tools aim to guide daily routines, support memory, and give independence,” William said.
“By reducing stress, answering repeated questions calmly, giving reminders, and guiding with GPS, Dementia Shield may help to slow down the progression of dementia,” William added.
Minister of State for Older People, Kieran O’Donnell (Centre), and Kim Tully, CEO Engaging Dementia (Right), with delegates at the International Dementia Conference in 2025.
Now in its 18th year, the International Dementia Conference aims to bridge worlds in dementia care and connect global perspectives with local solutions.
The two-day event takes place on Wednesday, May 13 and Thursday, May 14, at the Athlone Springs Hotel in Roscommon where those in attendance will hear from people living with dementia, family carers and supporters, industry-leading researchers, professors and healthcare professionals. This year’s theme is “Let’s Keep Connecting”.
“We are delighted to be able to bring so many people together again this year to highlight some of the incredible work being conducted in the field of dementia care,” Kim Tully, CEO of Engaging Dementia, said.
“There are currently over 60,000 people living with dementia in Ireland, and that figure is predicted to grow to 145,000 over the next 20 years, so it is vital that we continue to develop innovative techniques and therapies that help them and their families cope with a challenging situation while remaining connected to their community,” she added.
The event is sponsored by Dovida, and their Director of Disability Services, Dr Kathy McLoughlin said:
“This conference provides a space to share ideas and learn from those with first-hand experience of living with dementia and experts in the field. We are proud to support Engaging Dementia and share their vision for an inclusive society where people living with dementia are actively engaged in their community,” she concluded.