DEMENTIA sufferers in the East End are to be the first in the capital to have their memories unlocked through a revolutionary new technology launched today. Elderly residents at Hawthorn Green Care Home in Redmans Road, Stepney are being given the cha

DEMENTIA sufferers in the East End are to be the first in the capital to have their memories 'unlocked' through a revolutionary new technology launched today.

Elderly residents at Hawthorn Green Care Home in Redmans Road, Stepney are being given the chance to use two interactive computer systems with the help of their carers that aim to improve their communications skills and trigger their own memories.

Researchers at the Universities of St Andrews and Dundee have spent more than ten years developing the Computer Interactive Reminiscence and Conversation Aid (CIRCA) system.

Dr Arlene Astell who led the research has been working with Sanctuary Care, which runs different care homes, including Hawthorne Green, to pilot the system.

And from today dementia sufferers will be able to access different photos and video clips, supplied by archives from the BBC, ITV and Trinity Mirror group, on their computer screens and enjoy interactive activities.

Martin Valentine, director of Dementia Life Ltd, said: "Our systems are a collection of music, radio, pictures and videos that have specifically selected by the research teams. Both systems are touch screen and can be used by anyone with no prior computer experience.