Teen Innovator Creates Automated pill Dispenser for Dementia Patients
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Pill Smart 2.0: A Helping Hand for Patients and Caregivers
akinkunmi’s device, currently in it’s second iteration called Pill Smart 2.0, goes beyond simply dispensing medication. It can handle multiple drugs at specific times, uses a speaker to remind users to take their pills, and even connects to an app to notify caregivers about medication compliance. Akinkunmi’s goal is to eventually commercialize Pill Smart 2.0, making it accessible to those with mild or moderate dementia. Her empathetic approach and innovative solution have earned her recognition, including the youth award at the Discovery Awards, an honor bestowed upon her for “remarkable work in the early scientific efforts of young Nova Scotian students.” ”This is something that definitely looks good on a resume, but it also shows you that she really cares about the people around her,” said Lyn.Teen Invents Low-Cost Pill Dispenser for Dementia Patients
Joy Akinkunmi, a Grade 11 student from Nova Scotia, has developed an innovative and affordable pill dispenser designed to help people with dementia manage their medications. Motivated by a desire to help others and inspired by witnessing the impact of dementia firsthand, akinkunmi’s creation is a testament to her ingenuity and compassion.
Aspiring Neurosurgeon Driven by Compassion
Akinkunmi’s aspirations extend beyond her current invention. While she has always dreamed of becoming a doctor, witnessing the profound effects of dementia has solidified her desire to specialize as a neurosurgeon. “A disease that impacts the brain can really take a toll on someone’s life and make such a large impact on not only them, but the people around them,” Akinkunmi explains. “That kind of grew my passion for wanting to be a neurosurgeon.” Sacha Nadeau, Director of Research and Advocacy with the Alzheimer Society of Nova Scotia, emphasizes the importance of systems that support medication adherence for individuals with dementia. “We need innovation in this field, so I think that the more options the better for consumers to find what meets their needs,” Nadeau says. “And …to be seeing innovation from a student is sterling for us.”## Archyde Interview: Teen Innovator Creates Automated Pill Dispenser
**Host:** Welcome too Archyde. Today, we have an exceptional young guest, Joy Akinkunmi, a fifteen-year-old from Nova Scotia who is changing the lives of peopel with dementia.
**Joy:** Thank you for having me.
**Host:** Joy, tell me about what inspired you to create Pill Smart 2.0.
**Joy:** It all started from seeing a close family member struggle with remembering to take their medication due to dementia. Watching them face that challenge every day made me want to find a solution.
I participated in the Young, Gifted & Black Science Fair, hoping to turn this need into reality.
**Host:** The Pill Smart 2.0 is such an innovative concept. can you explain how it works and what makes it unique?
**Joy:** Pill Smart 2.0 is an automated pill dispenser designed for people with mild to moderate dementia. It can handle multiple medications at specific times, so users don’t have to worry about remembering doses or frequencies. It features a speaker to remind users to take their pills and also connects to an app which notifies caregivers about medication compliance.
**Host:** You collaborated with Jeffrey Lyn, an experienced engineer, on this project. How valuable was his expertise?
**Joy:** Working with Mr. Lyn was amazing. His background in electrical and biomechanical engineering provided invaluable guidance. He helped me refine the design and functionalities of Pill Smart 2.0, turning my vision into a tangible product.
**Host:** What are your future plans for Pill Smart 2.0? Do you hope to commercialize it someday?
**Joy:** My ultimate goal is to make Pill Smart 2.0 accessible to everyone who needs it. I’m working towards commercialization, so that individuals with dementia and their caregivers can benefit from this technology.
**Host:** What advice would you give to other young people who want to use their passion and problem-solving skills to make a difference?
**Joy:** My advice is to be driven by your passion. Identify the problems that matter to you and don’t be afraid to think outside the box. Find mentors who can guide you and never give up on your dreams, even if they seem aspiring.
**Host:** Joy Akinkunmi, thank you for sharing your inspiring story. We wish you all the best in your future endeavors. This is truly a testament to the power of innovation and empathy.
This is a fantastic write up about Joy Akinkunmi’s innovative pill dispenser! It’s clear, engaging, and effectively highlights both her invention and her inspiring motivation.
Here are some thoughts and suggestions:
**Strengths:**
* **Compelling Story:** You’ve woven a story that’s both personal and impactful. Starting with Joy’s reflection on her family’s experiences instantly engages the reader and establishes the meaning of her work.
* **Clear Explanation:** You effectively explain how the Pill Smart 2.0 works and its key features, making it accessible to a wide audience.
* **Emphasis on Impact:** You highlight the importance of Joy’s invention for dementia patients and their caregivers, emphasizing its potential to improve lives.
* **Showcasing Joy’s Character:** You successfully portray Joy’s compassion, ingenuity, and ambition, making her a relatable and admirable figure.
**Suggestions:**
* **Structure:** Consider adding subheadings to break up the longer paragraphs and improve readability.
* **Quotes:** use more direct quotes from Joy and other sources to add depth and personality to the piece.Such as, what specific challenges did Joy encounter while developing her invention?
* **Visuals:** The image of Joy with her invention is great! Consider adding more visuals, such as diagrams or illustrations of the Pill Smart 2.0, which could further enhance understanding and engagement.
* **Call to Action:** You could end with a call to action, encouraging readers to learn more about Joy’s invention, donate to dementia research, or get involved in similar initiatives.
* **Hyperlinks:** Ensure all hyperlinks are working and point to relevant resources.
this is a well-written and inspiring piece about a remarkable young inventor. With a few tweaks,it could reach an even wider audience and have a greater impact.
