In a remarkable fusion of compassion and engineering, two Cambridgeshire engineers, Dr Matt Ash and Dr James Brown, have developed a groundbreaking device aimed at enhancing the lives of individuals living with dementia. Inspired by Matt’s personal experience caring for his mother during the Covid pandemic, this innovation seeks to enable those affected by dementia to maintain their independence while providing peace of mind to their families.
The Genesis of SenS2
The journey to create SenS2 began when Dr Ash’s mother displayed signs of dementia, prompting him to adjust his work commitments to ensure her well-being. The challenge he faced was immense; living two hours away from her, he and his siblings sought a solution that would allow them to monitor her health without intruding on her autonomy.
In 2022, a conversation between Matt and his old friend James, whom he met during their PhD studies at University College London, sparked an idea. Both engineers realised that existing technologies fell short of adequately catering to the needs of dementia patients like Matt’s mother. They envisioned a product that could provide essential monitoring while preserving the user’s dignity. Thus, Supersense Technologies was born, culminating in the creation of the SenS2 device.
How SenS2 Works
Designed with simplicity in mind, SenS2 comprises a discreet, A4-sized box equipped with sensors that monitor the daily routines of its users. Unlike cumbersome wearables or intrusive smart home devices, this unobtrusive system is easy to set up and operates from a single point within the home. The sensors track movement across various rooms, sending alerts to family members when unusual activity is detected, enabling them to respond promptly.
For instance, Matt explained how the system might notify him if his mother rises more frequently than usual at night. “It’s about understanding what’s happening when we’re not there, so we can decide whether to make a visit or a phone call,” he said. This proactive approach supports families in making informed decisions regarding their loved ones’ care.
Aiming for the Longitude Prize
The innovative duo is now in the running for the Longitude Prize on Dementia, a prestigious competition backed by the Alzheimer’s Society and Innovate UK, which offers a £1 million grand prize to one of five finalists. This funding would significantly boost their efforts to expand the accessibility of SenS2. “Regardless of who wins, we believe the collective development taking place is vital for tackling the challenges posed by dementia,” James stated, highlighting the collaborative nature of their mission.
Their technology is already making waves, with a prototype currently in use by 12 families across Cambridgeshire, Norfolk, and London. The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with one family able to reduce the frequency of professional care visits for their mother, allowing her to retain her independence during daytime hours.
Supporting Families in a Caregiving Role
Navigating the complexities of caring for a loved one with dementia can be daunting, especially for those who have not anticipated taking on such a role. Both Matt and James understand this struggle intimately and aim for SenS2 to serve as a supportive tool rather than a replacement for human care. “We’re not a carebot,” James emphasised, “but rather a resource that helps families in their caregiving journey.”
As they continue to refine their technology, they are also engaging with local carer groups and dementia communities to ensure that SenS2 meets the real-world needs of its users.
Why it Matters
The introduction of SenS2 represents a significant step forward in dementia care, offering a solution that balances the need for monitoring with respect for individual autonomy. As the global population ages and the incidence of dementia rises, innovations like this are crucial in enabling those affected to live fuller, more independent lives. Supporting families in this way not only enhances the quality of care but also uplifts the dignity of those living with the condition, creating a more compassionate society for all.
