2023-06-16 14:42:16
Current tests often do not pick up on the first changes of a person’s decline in, for example, language, behavior, concentration or memory. In contact with patients, Jiskoot found out that conversations change over time. Jiskoot: ‘Until now, however, speech has not been looked at during the diagnosis process.’
Catch gut feeling
Jiskoot discovered early in her career as a neuropsychologist and researcher that the current diagnostic tests are not suitable for this group. ‘These are young people who are cognitively healthy, but you know that eventually they will become ill. In the tests we are doing now, people actually show no deterioration. Still, I noticed that something changed in the contact. It seems to come from the way someone speaks.’
Automatically examine voice recordings
Jiskoot therefore decided to make voice recordings of her patients. “The computer then automatically examines the recordings. This looks, for example, at the speed of speech, which words someone uses, and whether someone speaks flatly or with a lot of melody.” In this way it is possible to detect changes even before someone develops the first symptoms of FTD.
Ultimately, this technique can not only help with a better and earlier diagnosis, but also provide starting points for targeted advice on how to deal with language problems for people with FTD and their loved ones. Finally, voice recordings can also be used in research into medication for FTD.
YOR award for talent retention
Since 2019, Alzheimer Nederland has been presenting the Young Outstanding Researcher (YOR) award to talented young researchers in the field of dementia. With this prize we want the research of the winners, but also that of the others finalists, draw attention. Too often it happens that research talent is forced to leave the field because they cannot get a permanent position at a university. Thanks in part to the YOR award, many previous winners were given a permanent position. Jiskoot: ‘This prize means a lot to me, in many different areas. Not only is it a huge compliment, but it will also really help me to set up my own line of research. This way I can contribute to stopping FTD.’
#Alzheimers #Netherlands