Meet Liv: The AI Avatar Revolutionising Dementia Support
By Ella Horncastle on Wednesday, October 23, 2024
Lenovo, in collaboration with Innovations in Dementia, has created an innovative new AI tool designed to support people living with Alzheimer’s and dementia.
Named “Liv,” the first-of-its-kind, photorealistic 3D avatar offers a comforting, 24/7 conversational companion for those recently diagnosed, providing a much-needed resource based on real, lived experiences.
The project aims to provide round the clock support to newly diagnosed individuals and their families, helping them address everyday challenges, discuss the disease with loved ones, and explore new activities.
With over 55 million people worldwide affected by dementia – a number that’s only growing – the need for accessible, user-friendly and empathetic support has never been greater.
‘Alzheimer’s Intelligence’ is trained on real experiences from real people, combining data from the Dementia Diaries project and detailed panel interviews to deliver personalized advice and guidance – in turn, offering personalised insights that traditional resources often miss.
Liv’s photorealistic appearance was actually created using generative AI, which synthesized a visual composite based on images of ten people with dementia. This avatar enables people to have unscripted conversations and receive guidance from a relatable, familiar face. The technology is currently being trialled, with plans to expand its availability, offering a revolutionary support tool for dementia patients.
Currently being trialled, Alzheimer’s Intelligence has the potential to become a vital tool for many, combining both the accessibility of tech with advice that feels personal, relatable, and grounded in real-life experience.