In an era where technology and healthcare are increasingly intertwined, BrainTrack, a pioneering app developed by Dementia Australia and Deakin University’s Applied Artificial Intelligence Institute (A²I²), has emerged as a beacon of innovation and practical utility. Recently, this free app, designed to monitor and understand changes in cognition, ascended to international acclaim by reaching the finals of the esteemed Asia-Pacific Information Communications Technology Alliance (APICTA) Awards in Hong Kong.
BrainTrack, since its launch in October 2022, has seen a remarkable uptake with over 60,000 downloads. It stands as a testament to the rising need and interest in tools that empower individuals to manage and understand their cognitive health. The app’s journey to the APICTA finals, particularly in the Health and Wellbeing category, highlights its contribution to the technology sector’s pursuit of excellence and creativity.
Maree McCabe AM, CEO of Dementia Australia, expressed her enthusiasm over BrainTrack’s international recognition. She emphasised the criticality of enhancing early diagnosis of dementia, an ailment affecting over 400,000 Australians, a number projected to double by 2058. BrainTrack serves as a critical tool in this mission, offering users engaging, travel-themed games adapted from validated cognitive tests. These games not only aid in exploring cognitive concerns but also provide invaluable brain health information.
The app’s significance extends beyond mere cognitive monitoring. It offers users the option to share their results with general practitioners, thereby aiding the early identification of cognitive changes that might necessitate further testing. This feature underscores the app’s role in fostering a proactive approach towards brain health.
McCabe’s commendation of the team behind BrainTrack speaks volumes of the collaborative efforts in creating a tool that not only increases understanding of dementia but also raises awareness about the importance of brain health monitoring and discussion. She recalled Dementia Australia’s first APICTA win in 2014 for their Virtual Dementia Experience, noting the excitement of being recognised once again at such a prestigious, international platform.
Adding to its accolades, BrainTrack was recently honoured as the Best App for Good for 2023 by Google Play. Available for free download on the Apple App Store and Google Play, BrainTrack stands as a beacon of accessible, user-friendly technology that addresses a critical healthcare need.
Dementia Australia’s journey to the APICTA Awards followed their success in the Community/Not-for-profit category at both the ACT and National levels of the 2023 Australian Information Industry Association iAwards. The development of BrainTrack, funded by the Australian Government, is a testament to the nation’s commitment to innovative healthcare solutions.
As a leading authority and source of trusted information, education, and services for Australians living with dementia, and their caregivers, Dementia Australia continues to advocate for positive change and support vital research. The organisation’s dedication to aiding those impacted by dementia, ensuring they live as well as possible, remains unwavering.
For those seeking support or information, Dementia Australia remains a steadfast ally, offering resources through the National Dementia Helpline (1800 100 500), with an interpreter service available. Funded by the Australian Government, the Helpline and Dementia Australia’s website (dementia.org.au) serve as vital channels for assistance and information dissemination.
In an ever-evolving technological landscape, BrainTrack stands as a shining example of Australian innovation making a significant impact on the global stage, offering hope and practical solutions for individuals navigating the challenges of cognitive health.
BrainTrack is available for download for free through the Apple App Store or Google Play. For more information, please visit www.dementia.org.au/braintrack or call the National Dementia Helpline on 1800 100 500
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Dementia Australia's BrainTrack app gains global recognition as a finalist in the APICTA Awards, showcasing its innovative approach to cognitive health monitoring & earning acclaim. 🌐🏆🧠📱👏 #TheIndianSun #Dementiahttps://t.co/0r4dSlVKWx
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