University of Tokyo Deploy AI to Monitor Elderly Cognitive Health

A research team from the University of Tokyo has developed an innovative AI voice analysis service called 'Chat Chat' designed to detect early signs of cognitive decline in adults aged 50-70. The service, created by startup IGSA under the university's Matsuo Laboratory, represents a breakthrough in non-invasive cognitive health monitoring.

How the Service Works

Users can access the service by simply adding the official 'Chat Chat' account on LINE, Japan's popular messaging platform. The system guides participants through a 2-minute conversation with an AI assistant, discussing topics like childhood memories or recent events.

Image source note: The image is AI-generated, and the image licensing provider is Midjourney

The AI evaluates multiple factors including:

• Vocal characteristics: Speech rate, pauses, and tone variations
• Language patterns: Vocabulary complexity and grammatical structure

Results are categorized into four levels (A-D) and delivered via LINE. For more comprehensive analysis, users can opt for a 15-minute extended assessment that includes personalized lifestyle improvement suggestions.

Clinical Advantages Over Traditional Methods

Unlike conventional cognitive tests that rely on memory quizzes or arithmetic problems - which many seniors find stressful - 'Chat Chat' uses natural conversation as its assessment medium. This approach significantly reduces psychological barriers to regular cognitive health monitoring.

"We're making brain health checks as routine as weighing yourself," said Shoichiro Matsushima, CEO of IGSA. The company plans to integrate the service into government-sponsored care prevention programs.

Accessibility and Pricing Structure

The public beta version will be available free for one month, after which the service will adopt a subscription model:

• Annual fee: ¥1,500 (~$10)
• Test limit: 3 assessments per year

Post-assessment, users receive customized recommendations including:

• Cognitive exercise regimens
• Local health activity sign-ups (with direct online registration)

The development team emphasizes that all data processing occurs securely within LINE's ecosystem, requiring no additional app downloads or complicated setup procedures.

Key Points:

• 🗣️ Conversational interface: Natural dialogue replaces stressful memory tests
• 🧠 Advanced analytics: AI evaluates both speech patterns and linguistic markers
• 💻 Zero-install access: Fully operational within LINE messaging platform
• 🏥 Preventive focus: Designed for early detection of mild cognitive impairment