Neuroethics of Augmenting Human Memory Using Wearable Pervasive and Ubiquitous Technologies

Abstract

Neuroethics is a field of study that deals with the ethical and moral issues in neuroscience. Memory augmentation approaches and technologies, is rooted in the broad field of neuroscience and brings with it its own set of ethical issues. Memory augmentation is a new emergent field, where the well-being of humans is augmented using pervasive and ubiquitous technologies. Augmenting Alzheimer and dementia patients' memory with wearable pervasive computing technologies like lifelogging shows a promising memory improvement But, is it ethical to augment memory, if so what ethical issue may arise? The emergent technologies like artificial intelligence, pervasive computing and IoT (Internet of Things) are frequently used in memory augmentation. The consequence of augmentation for treating memory deficit needs a careful look. This paper will highlight the basic ethical issues related to memory augmentation technologies.

Smart home applications for cognitive health of older adults

“…It has been shown that technology can help maintain independence and improve quality of life. Some examples of how technology can support older adults in living independently are: cognitive problems detection [4], tracking systems for dementia patients [5,6], training cognitive functions such as short-term memory [7], or augmenting human memory [8]. The interdisciplinary field of designing technology and environments for independent living and social participation of older persons in good health, comfort, and safety is known as gerontechnology [9].…”