Agitation, anxiety, and refusal of care are common behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia, which can make caregiving difficult. For example, paramedics often face challenges in promptly and harmoniously transferring patients with dementia to hospital due to communication challenges. Miwako Honda, MD, National Hospital Organization Tokyo Medical Center, Tokyo, Japan, shares the findings of a study analyzing the effectiveness of a standardized educational system for paramedics specializing in dementia care, using artificial intelligence. Participants took part in a training program, consisting of lectures and hands-on workshops. Artificial intelligence (AI) was used to analyze video-recordings of participants performing care on simulated patients before and after their training. The video analysis showed a significant change of the interactive communication in the direction of approach, eye contact with patients, and duration of mutual gaze. 97% of participants considered the training effective for their daily work. This interview took place during the Alzheimer’s Association International Conference 2021.
