Tech scene: ImpactHD

What?

ImpactHD is an app which aims to provide a sustainable and scalable healthcare solution for individuals with Huntington’s disease (HD), which is currently incurable. The app provides individuals with targeted physical exercises, which in conjunction with cognitive exercises, have been shown to increase grey matter volume (which normally degenerates), improve cognition, movement and sleep. The ImpactHD app enables participants to choose their goals, and select either a gym-based or home-based routine. Facebook integration lets users track a friend’s activity and provide encouragement.

Where?

The app can be joined for free at www.impacthd.org.au

Who?

The app was commissioned by Huntington’s WA in collaboration with Edith Cowan University’s research team, and developed by Bam Creative.

Quote

“This app could help them (people with HD) maintain their cognitive function and movement for longer, enabling them to be independent for a longer period of time and less reliant on assisted care,” Huntington’s WA managing director Lenni Duffield said.

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More than $1 million has been invested on research and a further $100,000 on the app development. Huntington’s WA is looking to partner with potential investors/funders to build on and complete the app to its full potential. It anticipates it will take about three years to fully complete ImpactHD.