BrainTrack, a free app that helps people privately monitor and understand changes in cognition, received international recognition last week, reaching the finals of the Asia-Pacific Information Communications Technology Alliance Awards in Hong Kong.
BrainTrack, developed by Dementia Australia and Deakin University’s Applied Artificial Intelligence Institute (A²I²) Institute, reached the finals of the Health and Wellbeing category at the awards, which recognise excellence and creativity in the technology sector.
Dementia Australia CEO Maree McCabe AM said it was fantastic to see international recognition for BrainTrack, which has been downloaded more than 60,000 times since being launched in October 2022.
‘With more than 400,000 Australians living with dementia – which is projected to increase to more than 800,000 by 2058 – improving early diagnosis must be a priority,’ said Ms McCabe.
How it works
Dementia Australia says BrainTrack helps individuals explore common cognitive concerns and provides brain health information through fun, travel-themed games that have been adapted from validated cognitive testing.
Users can share their results with their GP to support the early identification of cognitive changes over time that may warrant further testing.
‘I congratulate the incredible team behind this groundbreaking tool that is increasing the understanding of dementia and raising awareness about the importance of monitoring and talking about brain health,’ said Ms McCabe. ‘We won our first APICTA in 2014 for our Virtual Dementia Experience. It is so exciting to be recognised once more by these prestigious, international awards.’
BrainTrack was also recently named the Best App for Good for 2023 by Google Play.
Where to get it
The app is available for download for free through the Apple App Store or Google Play. For more information, visit www.dementia.org.au/braintrack or call the National Dementia Helpline on 1800 100 500.
Dementia Australia qualified to compete in the international APICTA Awards after winning the Community/Not-for-profit category in the ACT and then the National 2023 Australian Information Industry Association iAwards. The development of BrainTrack was funded by the Australian Government.
To view all Dementia Australia’s awards and recognition go to https://www.dementia.org.au/about-us/dementia-australia/awards-and-recognition
For support, please contact the National Dementia Helpline on 1800 100 500. An interpreter service is available. The National Dementia Helpline is funded by the Australian Government. People looking for information can also visit dementia.org.au.
