What if cognitive decline didn't have to mean simply waiting for things to get worse?

In this special North Star Leaders & Innovators episode of Answers for Elders, host Suzanne Newman speaks with Daniel Kelly, Chief Innovation Officer at New Days.AI, about a new approach to supporting people living with mild cognitive impairment (MCI), dementia and cognitive decline. New Days describes its program as “physical therapy for your brain,” combining clinician-guided care with daily conversational exercises designed to challenge cognitive skills, maintain independence and help people remain engaged in the activities that give their lives meaning.

Daniel introduces Sunny, New Days' conversational AI partner, which allows participants to practice cognitive skills through natural conversation rather than navigating complicated technology. Sunny can reminisce about a person's life, family and career while also guiding exercises that target specific cognitive abilities. Importantly, the technology operates under the guidance of a clinician. Suzanne and Daniel also explore emerging developments in dementia care, including early detection, biomarkers, personalized therapy and the potential for artificial intelligence to make cognitive care more accessible.

The conversation goes beyond technology to address what dementia means for the whole family. Suzanne shares experiences from caring for her own mother, while Daniel discusses how cognitive rehabilitation can help people return to meaningful activities, preserve autonomy and maintain a sense of purpose. They also examine the enormous burden placed on spouses and family caregivers—and how daily cognitive exercises may provide a form of respite while helping loved ones stay engaged. For families facing a new or potential diagnosis, the message is hopeful: there may be more to do than simply wait and see. Discover how clinical care, cognitive rehabilitation, social connection, purpose and innovative technology could help people fight back against cognitive decline and remain themselves for as long as possible.

Learn more about New Days.AI: https://www.newdays.ai/about

About Answers for Elders: Hosted by Suzanne Newman, founder and CEO of Answers for Elders, North Star Leaders & Innovators spotlights the people and ideas shaping the future of aging, caregiving and technology.

Mentioned in this episode:

New Days