More than just a screen saver: It's a memory saver

The idea, one of five finalists in Microsoft's DesignIT competition that closed today (11 May 2006), proposes using computers as a new way of helping people with dementia deal with their memory loss and social isolation - by adapting the humble screen saver.

Said Dajani, website manager at the Alzheimer's Society, explains,

'The idea uses the same simple features behind a screen saver to support people affected by this condition.

A carer, friend or family member, working with the person with dementia, would populate the device with images, video and music from the past. It might also be used as a reminder to take medication, or keep an appointment.

We would also like to investigate whether we could use the software to connect people with dementia to each other in a secure and safe way. A network such as this would not only help overcome feeling of isolation but also encourage mutual support.'

Neil Hunt, chief executive of the Alzheimer's Society,

'There are many new and exciting technologies that are being developed to help people with dementia. However many of these are far too expensive. We hope ideas like this will inspire a new range of IT design that thinks outside the box and delivers an inexpensive way to help all those affected by dementia.'

The competition winner will be announced on the DesignIT website shortly after voting ends today.

Over 100,000 people are diagnosed with dementia each year.

For more information contact Hannah Clack, Alzheimer's Society press office.

Notes for editors

• For more details about the Microsoft DesignIT competition visit their website at http://www.microsoft.com/uk/technet/designit/default.mspx
• Juana Awad from the Slade School of Fine Art has been asked by Microsoft to interpret the concept in a work of art, to be auctioned at the winner's award ceremony at the end of May. 
• 1 in 3 older people will end their lives with a form of dementia. 
• 700,000 people in the UK have a form of dementia, more than half have Alzheimer's disease. In less than 20 years nearly a million people will be living with dementia. This will soar to 1.7 million people by 2051. 1 in 5 people over 80 have dementia.  
• The Alzheimer's Society operates an online forum for people with dementia and their carers. 'Talking point' can be visited at www.alzheimers.org.uk/TalkingPoint/discuss/.
• The Alzheimer's Society champions the rights of people living with dementia and those who care for them. The Alzheimer's Society works in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.
• As a charity, the Alzheimer's Society depends on the generosity of the public to help it care, research and campaign for people with dementia. You can donate now by calling 0845 306 0898 or visiting http://www.alzheimers.org.uk/.
• The Alzheimer's Society Dementia Helpline number is 0845 300 0336 or visit http://www.alzheimers.org.uk/.