International Strategic Program with the University of Auckland
(New Zealand)

 

The Institute of Data Science (IDS) will be collaborating with the School of Computer Science at the University of Auckland to explore the use of AI agents in brain health. We aim to combine cutting-edge AI technology with human-centered approaches to empower individuals to optimize their brain health, support caregivers, and enhance healthcare delivery. Brain health and dementia are rapidly growing global public health challenges, with cases of dementia projected to triple worldwide by 2050 due to demographic ageing. Based on the recently completed population-based survey, Well-being of the Singapore Elderly (WiSE) study, the prevalence of dementia among older adults aged 60+ was estimated as 8.8%. This amounts to 73,918 Singaporeans living with dementia in 2023, mostly undetected, with numbers expected to rise five-fold by 2050. Dementia is a progressive disorder which lies on a continuum with age-related brain health. As populations age, the impact of dementia on individuals, families, and healthcare systems will continue to intensify. Despite evidence that up to 40% of dementia is preventable, public awareness of brain health remains low. Many individuals do not recognize the steps they can take to optimise their brain health and reduce their dementia risk. We will design advanced AI techniques that are person-centered, culturally sensitive care to enhance health outcomes for older adults by promoting cognitive resilience, preventing dementia, and slowing its progression. This collaboration is part of the IDS International Strategic Program to develop long-term relationships with our strategic partner institutions.