Singapore Pioneers AI in Early Dementia Detection
Singapore, Tuesday, 2 September 2025.
Singapore’s NUHS is using AI and health coaching to detect dementia early, aiming to improve patient care and reduce healthcare burdens.
Integrating Predictive AI and Personalized Health Coaching
A multidisciplinary team from the National University Health System (NUHS) in Singapore is spearheading an initiative to integrate predictive artificial intelligence (AI) with personalized health coaching to detect dementia early. This strategy is part of the IMPROVE-COG initiative, which utilizes a large language model (LLM) trained on anonymized clinical data to identify early signs of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and dementia. Additionally, a Brain Care Tool has been developed, comprising a Brain Care Score and a Brain Care Coach to motivate brain-protective behaviors [1][2].
Addressing Undiagnosed Dementia Through Innovation
In Singapore, 51.5% of dementia cases remain undiagnosed, as highlighted by the 2023 Well-being of the Singapore Elderly (WiSE) study. Acknowledging this challenge, NUHS has received a grant of 2.33 million Singaporean dollars to support their research efforts. The aim is to leverage AI technology to bridge the gap in diagnosis and early intervention, potentially preventing 45% of dementia cases through timely lifestyle changes [1][2].
Collaboration and Technological Advancements
NUHS is partnering with community organizations, including Health District @ Queenstown and St Luke’s Hospital, to pilot the AI-driven Brain Care Tool. Furthermore, the research team collaborates with Professor Teo Hock Hai from the NUS School of Computing to map geographic information systems (GIS) and conduct spatial analyses. This effort investigates how environmental factors, such as exposure to green spaces, correlate with cognitive impairments, aiming to stimulate more effective healthcare interventions [1][2].
The Broader Impact of AI in Dementia Care
The development of AI tools like the Quick Dementia Rating Scale and the Pensieve-AI app represents a significant shift in Singapore’s healthcare strategy. These tools are designed to allow community nurses to screen residents outside of clinical settings and to identify early memory problems in under five minutes, respectively. The overarching goal is to empower individuals to take proactive steps towards brain health, aligning with Singapore’s focus on addressing the needs of an aging population [2][3].