Events

Publication: Returning Individualized Wearable Sensor Results to Older Adult Research Participants: A Pilot Study

Authors: Shelby L Bachman, Krista S Leonard-Corzo, Jennifer M Blankenship, Michael A Busa, Corinna Serviente, Matthew W Limoges, Robert T Marcotte, Ieuan Clay, Kate Lyden Abstract Background: Wearable sensors that monitor physical behaviors are increasingly adopted in clinical research. Older adult research participants have expressed interest in tracking and receiving feedback on their physical behaviors. Simultaneously, researchers and clinical trial sponsors are interested in returning results to participants, but the question of how to return individual study results derived from research-grade wearable sensors remains unanswered. In this study, we (1) assessed the feasibility of returning individual physical behavior results to older adult research participants and (2) obtained participant feedback on the returned results. Methods: Older adult participants (N = 20; ages 67-96) underwent 14 days of remote monitoring with 2 wearable sensors. We then used a semiautomated…

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Past Webinar – Harnessing the Power of Technology to Change the Way We Age, Alex Glazebrook (OATS from AARP)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Ao6Sif3Q5Y Abstract: Our society is aging alongside a rapid increase in the evolution and advancement of technology that mediates daily life. The use and adoption of technology by older adults has increased in the recent past, but differences remain with their younger counterparts and the effects of digital disconnection in later life are more acute. This session will present recent technology adoption and use trends among older adults as well as accompanying solutions that can aid in the adoption of technology by older adults, including future directions and expected developments. Biography: Alex Glazebrook, PhD, VP of Programs at Older Adults Technology Services from AARP As VP of Programs, Alex Glazebrook is responsible for ensuring an outstanding experience for the older adults who participate in the many training and support programs that OATS offers. Alex earned…

Continue ReadingPast Webinar – Harnessing the Power of Technology to Change the Way We Age, Alex Glazebrook (OATS from AARP)

Past Webinar – Progress in Personalizing Content and Dosing of a Physical Activity Promotion Intervention, David E. Conroy

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rzI9xjFMRsg Abstract: The Michigan Roybal Center aims to develop physical activity interventions for middle-age and older adults that engage validated mechanisms for adhering to behavior change following the end of active intervention support. This talk will review our ongoing work (a) to develop person-specific dosing algorithms to select the content and timing of text messages and (b) to engineer prompts for generative artificial intelligence systems to author message content that activates affective motivational processes to promote physical activity. The long-term objective of fusing these personalization strategies is to improve adherence to behavior change and reduce risk for Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. Biography: David Conroy, PhD, Professor and the Bickner Chair in Kinesiology at the University of Michigan Dr. Conroy is a Professor and the Bickner Chair in Kinesiology at the University of Michigan where he…

Continue ReadingPast Webinar – Progress in Personalizing Content and Dosing of a Physical Activity Promotion Intervention, David E. Conroy

Past Webinar – Leveraging AI to Measure and Model Social Behavior, James M. Rehg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8mXoTsgEd-I Abstract: Beginning in infancy, individuals acquire the social and communication skills that are vital for a healthy and productive life. Children with autism face great challenges in acquiring these skills, resulting in substantial lifetime risks. As the neural basis for ASD is unclear, the diagnosis, treatment, and study of autism depends fundamentally on the analysis of child behavior. Standard methods for behavioral observation and coding are the backbone of research studies but are inherently coarse-grained and not easily scalable. In this talk I will present our research agenda that uses AI models and computer vision technology to automate the measurement of social behavior from video. Our goal is to unlock the rich behavioral information that is present in video and make it available for large-scale data-driven modeling and assessment. I will present several recent…

Continue ReadingPast Webinar – Leveraging AI to Measure and Model Social Behavior, James M. Rehg

Past Webinar – Practical Cognitive Assessment Methods for AD/ADRD Research Projects

https://youtu.be/4weOZ9Tf-Og?si=lzfkLGsUZVZSseRz Abstract:  This webinar will examine cognitive assessment methods in Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) and Alzheimer’s Disease-Related Dementias (ADRD) research, featuring insights from neuropsychology, geriatric psychiatry, and digital health technology. Panelists will highlight the challenges of accurate screening across diverse populations and settings, from community-based studies to clinical trials. Presentations will explore traditional tools like the MoCA and CDR alongside emerging digital approaches using speech AI, wearable sensors, and web-based platforms. Discussions will emphasize demographic influences, functional measures, and resource considerations in selecting appropriate screening strategies. Case studies will illustrate lessons learned in real-world pilot projects, including practice effects, scalability barriers, and the integration of cognitive and functional assessments.Attendees will gain a nuanced understanding of current and future cognitive screening tools and how to apply them effectively in research and clinical contexts. About the Speakers:  Kathryn…

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Past Webinar – Unlocking Success: FDA Regulatory Strategies for AgeTech Devices and AI

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0dpRR_cDPPs Abstract:  This webinar explores regulatory strategies for bringing AgeTech devices and AI innovations to market under FDA oversight. Panelists provided an overview of FDA pathways, including 510(k), De Novo, and Pre-Market Approval (PMA), highlighting how device classification and intended use shape regulatory requirements. Discussion emphasized unique challenges for software as a medical device (SaMD), clinical decision support (CDS) tools, and AI/ML-enabled technologies, including validation standards and cybersecurity mandates. Speakers underscored the importance of aligning regulatory strategy with business models and offered guidance on leveraging Pre-Submission processes and breakthrough device designation to accelerate approval. Real-world insights from wearable device development illustrated the complexities of clinical validation, reimbursement planning, and risk-based regulation.You will gain practical knowledge on navigating FDA processes to responsibly develop and deploy AgeTech innovations for older adults. About the Speakers:  Ameet Sarpatwari, PhD,…

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Award: Gold Winner at McKnight’s Tech Awards in Falls Prevention, Management or Detection Category

The Gold went to Butlr and Ranagard Community for “Butlr: AI for earlier intervention.” By passively monitoring movement patterns via thermal sensors, Butlr Care alerts staff members when residents need assistance. The sensors detect movement but are purposely designed to be unable to capture any personally identifiable information. At Ranagard Community, 2,500 Butlr sensors were installed across 700 apartments. The return on investment has been evident in time and cost savings, increased revenue, better use of staff and a reduction in falls. Source: https://www.mcknightsseniorliving.com/news/gurwin-takes-best-of-show-as-2024-mcknights-tech-awards-honors-dozens-of-winners/

Continue ReadingAward: Gold Winner at McKnight’s Tech Awards in Falls Prevention, Management or Detection Category