The system, which is a collaborative research effort among UVA, Ohio State University in Columbus and Knoxville-based University of Tennessee researchers, will target caregivers of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia patients.
The goal of the system is to record caregivers as they talk and interact with the patient, specifically focusing on the pitch and tone of the caregivers’ phrases rather than distinct words. The UVA research team’s machine learning program then analyzes the recorded sounds and scans for tones of stress or anger, which, if detected, can then send an alert to the caregiver’s smartphone to remind him or her to relax. The program uses machine learning to tailor relaxation recommendations to the individual caregiver, such as going for a walk or listening to music.
The research team is currently on the first year of its four-year grant for the project and is working toward improving the accuracy of the technology. The next step will be to recruit an estimated 50 participants to test the system.
More articles on health IT:
Walmart Labs acqui-hires home health tech startup
5 new healthcare data chiefs
Apple’s 5 latest health-related job openings
Becker’s 3rd Annual Fall Chief Pharmacy Officer Summit is the top tier event that the people leading the future of pharmacy convene. This 3-day event is built specifically for Chief Pharmacy Officers and senior pharmacy leaders. The sessions examine the workforce, financial and clinical priorities shaping pharmacy today. Becker’s is where candid discussions flourish and new ideas thrive. Becker's 3rd Annual Fall Chief Pharmacy Officer Summit
