Sergei Gepshtein, PhD
When I mentioned the externalization of memory, Sergei explained that externalizing memory extends beyond products that are designed to do so. In fact, most of our memory comes from the world around us. In this way, when you close your eyes, you separate your memory of the world and the world itself. Most of the world will be misrepresented in your memory.
At the same time, most people experience change blindness; they don’t notice changes, even massive ones, that happen slowly over time. However, people suffering from degenerative disorders need to use the world around them to supplement their memory even more than normal.
Unfortunately, in Sergei’s experience, head-mounted devices and displays prove impractical for Alzheimer’s and dementia patients. However, Sergei’s work involves dementia and Alzheimer’s patients who have progressed so far that they enter a point of aggression and become violent. That was very discouraging information to hear, but it reinforced my idea that Memio focuses on patients in the earliest stages of Alzheimer’s and dementia.
Finally, Sergei reiterated that it’s important to raise awareness, be respectful, and find a cure. For now, the most we can do is improve the quality of life for these people as long as we can.
