Precedents

I have been doing a lot of background research into Alzheimer's disease, as well as other dementias, amnesias and cognitive disorders related to memory. In my research, I found countless examples of sensory stimulation kits on Pinterest. Described by words like sensory, activities, and fidget in forms of pillows, stuffed animals, quilts and boards, these kits are commonplace in the caregivers world. Sensory stimulation has been proven to ease symptoms of Alzheimer's by decreasing agitation, increasing mood, helping with restlessness and improving sleep quality. This type of therapy can also, the key thing I will focus on, allows patients to trigger emotions and memories in patients who have lost their ability to connect with the world around them.

I am also really interested in the idea of embedded tech. There have been steady trends towards wearables like smartwatches so I am wondering if this will continue into the future. I think embedded tech could have many applications, and encoding memory is just one. I found a project called Project Underskin by New Deal Design, the creators of the Fitbit. They were asked by Fast Company to look forward five years and answer where are personal electronics headed? What is the near future of wearable technology and interface as they begin to integrate more fully into our work, health, and personal lives? NewDealDesign envisioned tech to be seamlessly integrated into our lives by being placed under the skin - there when we need it, hidden when we don't.