In the ever-evolving landscape of medical technology, the idea of brain chips for seniors to enhance cognitive and physical functions is gaining momentum.
This blog post aims to delve into the feasibility of such neural implants, focusing on the Australian context. We’ll explore the potential benefits, discuss ongoing efforts, and assess whether brain chips are a viable solution for seniors experiencing cognitive decline.
Brain Chips in Australia
Australia has been at the forefront of medical innovation, with various research initiatives and technological advancements. In recent years, the exploration of neural implants, often referred to as brain chips, has garnered attention for its potential to address cognitive decline in seniors.
In 2019 and 2020, a team of surgeons at the Royal Melbourne Hospital put in a paperclip-sized implant called Stentrode on two middle-aged Australian men diagnosed with motor neurone disease. Designed by the University of Melbourne and built by Australian tech startup Synchron, the Stentrode is inserted into the motor cortex using techniques for fixing blood clots. The implant has 16 sensors to detect brain synapses connected to the eye and translates it into commands sent by wireless transmitters into devices like a computer or cellphone. Its nickel-titanium composition enables easy melding into the blood vessels.
The objective of Stentrode is to help patients overcome limb paralysis and regain many living functions. The two men who were implanted with Stentrode have been able to operate computers hands-free, and Synchron has received federal funding to conduct more trials in Sydney and Brisbane, with the main goal being formal approval from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). In an interview with New Atlas, one of the research proponents, University of Melbourne Associate Prof. Dr. Nicholas Opie, said given further development, a Stentrode-linked individual may be able to control their wheelchairs or an attached exoskeleton.
In late 2020, the Federal Government furnished Melbourne medical device maker Anatomics a $1m grant through CSIRO, for developing a special “smart helmet” brain implant. With the Anatomics SkullPro as a model, the implant is being touted as a way to monitor brain activity for stroke and traumatic brain injury patients coming off surgery. Established studies revealed there was a danger of epileptic seizures within days after the operation; the implant will engage upon detecting near-epilepsy electric signals to alert medical staff for treatment.
Neuralink Goes Forward
The above examples are independent of Tesla subsidiary Neuralink’s own efforts to make its own brain implant called the Telepathy.
In January 2024, Tesla owner Elon Musk revealed that the company had successfully placed a sample of the Telepathy implant in a human subject and the person was recovering well. The implant is also transmitting signals to observers.
The insertion was part of a study approved by the FDA in May 2023. Musk explained that if the product is further developed, implanted users can access their phones or computers at the speed of thought. The company is also seeking trials on people who became quadriplegic from cervical spinal injury and ALS.
Brain Chips in Seniors
As the ageing population continues to grow, so does the prevalence of age-related cognitive decline and disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease. Neural implants present a promising avenue for addressing these challenges. Let’s explore the potential benefits and considerations associated with introducing microchips into seniors’ brains.
Cognitive Enhancement
Neural implants hold the potential to enhance cognitive functions in seniors. By facilitating communication between neurons and compensating for age-related decline, these chips could help seniors maintain sharper memory, improved decision-making abilities, and overall cognitive well-being.
Physical Function Improvement
In addition to cognitive benefits, neural implants may contribute to the improvement of physical functions in seniors. Enhanced neural connections could aid in better motor control, reducing the risk of falls and promoting overall physical health and independence.
Prevention of Cognitive Disorders
One of the primary motivations for exploring neural implants in seniors is the potential to prevent or delay the onset of cognitive disorders. By intervening at the neural level, these implants may mitigate the impact of conditions like Alzheimer’s, offering a proactive approach to cognitive health.
Challenges and Ethical Considerations
While the potential benefits of neural implants are promising, it’s essential to acknowledge the challenges and ethical considerations associated with this emerging technology. Some key concerns include privacy issues, the potential for misuse, and the long-term impact on individuals’ autonomy and identity.
Writing for The Conversation, Monash University doctorate fellow Nathan Higgins said Neuralink and Synchron are in serious competition to build a functioning implant for production, but patient confidentiality is paramount. He added that Neuralink will be challenged to provide long-term support to its patients, citing how over 350 people around the world still have to suffer their “bionic eye” retinal implants from a testing programme by Second Sight Medical Devices. The company closed down and was acquired by Vivani Medical in 2022 – without finding a way to update the tech in the implants or to remove them.
Conclusion
The exploration of microchips for seniors’ brains presents an intriguing avenue for addressing cognitive decline and enhancing overall well-being. Australia’s contribution to neural implant research, coupled with ongoing initiatives, reflects a commitment to advancing medical technology.
As we navigate the ethical considerations and challenges associated with neural implants, it’s crucial to approach this technology with a balance of optimism and caution. The potential benefits for seniors, including cognitive enhancement, physical function improvement, and the prevention of cognitive disorders, warrant continued exploration and research in this innovative field.
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