A UK-developed AI assistant built into lightweight smart glasses has won the £1 million Longitude Prize on Dementia, one of the most prestigious innovation awards in the country. The technology, called CrossSense, uses a conversational AI companion named Wispy to guide people with early-stage dementia through everyday tasks, from making a cup of tea to getting dressed, with the goal of helping them stay safely in their own homes for longer.
For families already thinking about home adaptations to support a loved one’s independence, this kind of assistive technology signals a shift in how we approach ageing in place.
How CrossSense Works
CrossSense combines smart glasses with an AI-powered assistant that learns each user’s personal routines and preferences. The glasses capture the wearer’s environment, and Wispy, the AI companion, interprets what it sees to offer gentle spoken prompts and reminders.
Rather than dictating what to do, the system asks helpful questions so the user makes their own choices. If someone forgets a step in a familiar process, Wispy talks them through it patiently. The AI adapts over time as the person’s dementia progresses, adjusting its support to match changing needs.
The London-based social enterprise trained the technology on dozens of everyday activities including managing household chores safely, getting dressed, and interacting with family members. Working with the University of Sussex and a panel of people affected by dementia, the team observed improvements in some users’ ability to name objects and in other cognitive abilities including visual-spatial understanding and working memory.
Why This Matters for Home Independence
The Longitude Prize on Dementia, led by Challenge Works and funded by Alzheimer’s Society and Innovate UK, was specifically designed to find technologies that help people with dementia live independently at home. Professor Fiona Carragher, Chief Policy and Research Officer at Alzheimer’s Society, described CrossSense as a prime example of harnessing technology to develop intuitive personal support that complements care given by humans.
This connects directly to the broader picture of home adaptations. For many families, the journey towards supporting a loved one at home starts with physical modifications, whether that is a stairlift, grab rails, or an accessible bathroom. Assistive technology like CrossSense adds another layer, addressing cognitive challenges alongside physical ones.
When Will It Be Available?
CrossSense is expected to be available to purchase in early 2027. Before that, the company will launch a four-week UK-wide pilot in Q4 2026, giving people the chance to trial the technology in real home environments. The £1 million prize money will help accelerate this rollout.
The technology runs on existing smart glasses hardware, which keeps costs more manageable than purpose-built medical devices. Exact pricing has not yet been announced, but the team has indicated that affordability is a priority given the target audience.
The Bigger Picture for Assistive Technology
CrossSense is part of a growing wave of assistive technologies designed to support older and disabled people at home. The UK assistive technology market has expanded significantly, with over 500 active companies now working in the sector. Innovations range from smart home sensors that detect falls to AI-powered medication reminders and voice-activated home controls.
For people considering home adaptations, it is worth thinking about how physical modifications and technology can work together. A stairlift addresses the physical challenge of navigating stairs, while a system like CrossSense could help someone remember to use it safely or complete other daily routines with confidence. An occupational therapist can advise on both physical adaptations and assistive technology options during a home assessment.
What Families Can Do Now
If you are supporting a family member with dementia or mobility challenges, there are several practical steps worth considering. Start by speaking to your local council about a needs assessment, which can identify eligibility for a Disabled Facilities Grant to help fund home adaptations. An occupational therapist can recommend both physical modifications and assistive technology suited to your situation.
For those specifically interested in assistive technology for dementia, the Alzheimer’s Society provides information and guidance on available options. You can also explore our stairlift buying guide for advice on the physical adaptation side of making a home safer and more accessible.
The combination of thoughtful home adaptations and emerging technologies like CrossSense points towards a future where more people can remain comfortably and safely in their own homes, even as their needs change over time.
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