Trailblazing AI glasses that can help dementia patients live independently – and could soon be available to the NHS

Revolutionary artificial intelligence glasses for dementia sufferers can ‘see’ objects and project prompts on to lenses to help them live independently.

And the innovative devices could be available soon on the NHS.

They have been a success with users, in trials supporting patients at home, as well as impressing a panel of judges.

The glasses, developed over ten years, can guide people living with early-stage dementia through daily activities by identifying everyday objects and providing audio commentary and putting up visual prompts.

Being released more widely early next year, the makers hope the gadget will be used by local authorities, care providers and NHS memory clinics.

Weighing just 75g, the specs work with prescription lens inserts and are hearing aid compatible. A built-in battery lasts for an hour and a portable power bank keeps them going all day.

By asking questions, the glasses’ AI companion, Wispy, understands and learns a person’s way of doing things, with the AI adapting to each user’s needs as their dementia progresses. 

In trials, three out of four patients reported a significant improvement to their lives. 

Carole hopes the glasses will help her as her condition worsens, playing an important role in allowing dementia patients to maintain their independence

Carole Greig, 70, of Sutton in south London, is convinced they could play an important role in helping dementia sufferers like herself.

She said: ‘Our world slowly becomes smaller as the condition progresses. Innovations like this offer real hope.’

CrossSense, the London-based team behind the technology, has received the Longitude Prize on Dementia from a panel of international judges. 

The firm will use the £1million award – funded by Alzheimer’s Society and Innovate UK – to accelerate research.