Researchers at Nanyang Technological University (NTU) Singapore have joined forces with healthcare and social groups to create an AI tool that can detect early signs of depression in seniors.
The tool works by studying small changes in voice recordings, which could change how mental health is diagnosed in older adults.
This project is part of a three-year study called SoundKeepers, led by NTU’s Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine and the Centre for Digital Transformation.
In the study, seniors will give voice samples for analysis. Researchers will look for specific patterns in the voice that may signal mental health issues, especially early signs of depression that may not yet be severe.
Just like doctors check vital signs like temperature and blood pressure to assess physical health, researchers think voice changes can reveal mental health problems. Stress and other emotional issues can cause tension in the throat, neck, and jaw muscles, which affects the voice’s pitch and tone.
Seniors identified as at risk will be invited to join a community program to help them manage early symptoms of depression. The program will offer tips and techniques for better mental health.
The SoundKeepers project includes partners such as National Healthcare Group Polyclinics, the Institute of Mental Health, and social service groups like Fei Yue Community Services and Club HEAL, along with support from the Lien Foundation.
Source: theindependent
