ALZHEMIA

Inspiration

Alzheimer’s affects millions, and current treatments are expensive and hard to access. MIT research showed that 40 Hz stimulation can reduce amyloid buildup and improve memory, inspiring us to build a low-cost solution that families can use at home.

What it does

ALZHEMIA delivers 40 Hz light and sound stimulation to entrain gamma brain waves, helping improve cognitive function and potentially slow Alzheimer’s progression. It is affordable, safe, and designed for daily home use.

How we built it

We used a microcontroller to generate precise 40 Hz pulses to drive LEDs and audio output. We built a simple housing, added a timer system, and designed the device to run reliably and safely with minimal components.

Challenges we ran into

Generating a stable 40 Hz signal with accurate timing, ensuring the flicker was comfortable for users, and keeping the design low-cost while maintaining effectiveness were major challenges.

Accomplishments that we're proud of

We created a working prototype that demonstrates scientifically-backed therapy at a price point families can afford, making research-grade treatment accessible outside hospitals.

What we learned

We learned about gamma brain oscillations, practical hardware timing, and how engineering and neuroscience can combine to create meaningful healthcare solutions.

What's next for ALZHEMIA

We plan to add mobile app connectivity, progress tracking, doctor monitoring, and optional EEG-based feedback to make ALZHEMIA smarter, more personalized, and clinically testable.

Built With

• arduino
• cpp