DIMPLAD: Empowering early recognition of Alzheimer’s with user-centered digital solutions

Early recognition

The DIMPLAD project (Digital Measuring Platform for Alzheimer’s Detection) addresses the pressing challenge of recognizing Alzheimer’s at an earlier stage, when interventions can be more effective, and quality of life can still be preserved. While symptoms like memory loss or confusion may start subtly, timely recognition is often hampered by lack of clear guidance or accessible tools for patients and caregivers.

TNO and Selfcare aim to change this by developing a smartphone-based app that supports individuals and their loved ones in identifying cognitive decline earlier and navigating the path toward diagnosis. The DIMPLAD project ensures this digital tool will be developed in close collaboration with its intended users.

Innovative approach

DIMPLAD will build on the existing Selfcare app and integrate already available, evidence-based technologies that can help interpret user-generated data. Instead of reinventing the wheel, the project will carefully select and combine proven digital tools (e.g. cognitive tests, symptom tracking, or monitoring features) and tailor them to the needs of people at risk of Alzheimer’s, their caregivers, and healthcare professionals. As part of the development, we will conduct a study with diverse participants to ensure that the app is not only effective but also inclusive and easy to use in real-world settings.

Tom Segers, CEO of Selfcare: ‘From personal experience in my family, I know how difficult it can be to recognize the signs of Alzheimer’s early and track the effects of treatment. This project is very close to my heart, and I’m proud to work on something that can truly make a difference.’

Collaboration and impact

This initiative is a collaboration between TNO, known for its expertise in digital health innovations, and Selfcare, a leader in personal health data management. Further, we are happy to have several experts from the field on board, helping us with valuable suggestions in the advisory board. Together with this team of experts, we are certain to develop a meaningful app that can support patients developing dementia. By enabling earlier detection and intervention, DIMPLAD aims to improve the quality of life for individuals with dementia and reduce the burden on caregivers and the healthcare system.

Future prospects

The DIMPLAD project will run through December 2028, with the goal of delivering a validated, user-centered digital tool that supports earlier recognition of Alzheimer’s. This effort not only promises to enhance diagnostic pathways but also contributes to broader dementia care innovation in the Netherlands and beyond.