Grant: Summer Program in Aging

The ability to remember past experiences plays a critical function in our lives, shaping how we interact with the world, reflect on ourselves and communicate with others. As we age, we tend to lose the specific details that make up memory for life events-this process is exacerbated in conditions such as dementia. Memory loss can have profound consequences on one's self-identity, independence, and social relationships, which can in turn worsen memory loss. To address this, we developed HippoCamera, an easy-to-use and validated smartphone-based memory aid that allows users to create and review personalized multi-media reminiscence cues. HippoCamera is the first solution designed to mimic the hippocampus, a critical brain region for memory that is affected during aging and dementia. We found robust and long-lasting memory enhancement in older adults following HippoCamera use, with a boost in event-specific detail of over 50% relative to baseline. These gains lasted up to 3 months and were associated with sharpened brain activity in the hippocampus and a network of associated brain regions key for memory retrieval. In my current work, I am taking a Person-Based Approach to work with older adults, community partners, caregivers, and other key stakeholders to further develop, iterate upon, and prepare HippoCamera for real-world implementation, including in the form of a structured reminiscence program for older adults who are experiencing more severe memory impairments. Furthermore, I am working to investigate whether the benefits of HippoCamera extend to other populations experiencing memory loss, such as those living with acquired brain injury or transient epileptic amnesia. Together, the ultimate aim of my research is to create and develop effective, easy-to-use, and accessible solutions to mitigate memory loss and promote healthy cognitive aging.