JAIN Challenges, organized by the JAIN Foundation
The JAIN Challenges, organized by the JAIN Foundation, aim to create and integrate both national and international learning communities focused on developing e-health solutions for people with memory problems or dementia, their informal carers, and healthcare professionals.
So far, we have received 72 prototypes and products for participation in the JAIN Challenges, coming from 13 countries worldwide. These submissions cover various stages of the dementia journey, from diagnosis to care in more advanced stages. The applications range from daily use to more specific situations, with technologies designed for both people with dementia and their carers. The innovations represent a wide variety of solutions, all aimed at improving the lives of those affected by dementia.
These global contributions provide a glimpse into the future of dementia care.
Central to these challenges is promoting self-reliance, improving the quality of life, and extending the time people with dementia can continue living in their own home environments. Additionally, the JAIN Challenges support healthcare professionals in optimizing care while simultaneously reducing healthcare costs.
The key objectives include:
- Addressing daily physical challenges.
- Maintaining an adequate care relationship with those providing support.
- Preserving emotional balance.
- Sustaining a positive self-image.
- Preparing for an uncertain future.
- Developing and maintaining social relationships.
- Managing the environment and organizing daily activities.
AI technologies, with respect for privacy and ethics, can support these tasks. This can be achieved through smart sensors, empathetic voice assistants, and apps that provide emotional support, reminders, and daily organization.
There are two main types of JAIN Challenges (JC): the Dutch National JAIN Challenge (NJC), which focuses on solutions within the Netherlands, and the World JAIN Challenge (WJC), which brings together international expertise. Both platforms foster innovation in dementia care through competitions that evaluate AI-based products and services, presenting both prototypes and fully developed solutions.
Independent assessment committee JAIN Challenges
To guarantee the quality of the JAIN Challenges, an independent assessment committee of highly qualified experts with a broad orientation in the field of dementia care, technology development, evaluation, implementation and valorisation, together with experienced experts, assists JAIN. The Chairman of the international independent jury is Dr. Frank Meiland of Interdem.
Participants in the JAIN Challenges
Participants in the JAIN Challenges receive intensive support in developing their value propositions and refining their presentations. Finalists gain extensive exposure through targeted marketing and PR efforts, ensuring they reach key stakeholders such as investors, healthcare institutions, and policymakers. This exposure not only raises awareness but also drives the adoption of their innovative solutions. Additionally, winners receive support from the JAIN Foundation in developing long-term innovation roadmaps, ensuring their products meet the needs of people living with dementia and become sustainable solutions for the future.
These initiatives promote collaboration between companies, universities, and healthcare institutions. This enables businesses to accelerate product development, strengthen market positions, and expand networks. Participants in both the national and international challenges gain a competitive edge by contributing to technological advancements in dementia care. These efforts are supported by leading international organizations such as Alzheimer Nederland, Alzheimer Europe, and Alzheimer’s Disease International, as well as strategic JAIN field labs worldwide.
Distinguish Participating Experts in JAIN Challenges
Distinguish Participating Experts in previous the JAIN challenges: Bengt van Loosdrecht, Ambassador of Sweden; Prof. Charles Scerri, Vice-Chairmen of Alzheimer Europe; Dr. Franka Meiland, Chair Interdem WJC Jury; Prof. Dr. Arlene Astell, University Health Network, Toronto Canada; Prof. Bengt Winblad, MD, PhD Karolinska Institutet, Sweden; Prof. Dr. Wijnand IJsselsteijn, ECDT and Prof. Dr. Ye-Liang Hsu, Yuan Ze University, Taiwan. Prof. Erik Scherder, Prof. Catholijn Jonker, Prof. Dick Swaab and Drs. Marco Blom.
European Working Group of People with Dementia
JAIN would like to give special attention of the involvement in the WJC Jury of the European Working Group of People with Dementia of Alzheimer Europa
The European Working Group of People with Dementia (EWGPWD) is a Alzheimer Europe working group, which is composed entirely of people with dementia, who are nominated by their national Alzheimer associations. They work to ensure that the activities, projects and meetings of Alzheimer Europe duly reflect the priorities and views of people living with dementia.