Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder makes it harder for people to pay attention and control impulsive behavior. It is one of the most common neurobehavioral disorders in children, according to the CDC. The treatment options for ADHD include behavioral therapy and medication intervention, but what if kids could use video games to treat the disorder? Akili Interactive, a digital therapeutics company, is combining digital therapeutics and video games to drive a therapeutic effect in people suffering from ADHD.
The Boston-based company is making software to treat cognitive dysfunction in a number of disorders, but its flagship product is geared toward pediatric ADHD. Akili Interactive combines commercial gaming development, data science and neuroscience to create a platform for children to stay engaged with their therapy, a common issue with traditional ADHD treatment.
“It doesn’t always feel like they’re taking medication when they’re engaging with our product,” Jason Trees, director of product management and head of R&D, said during a DeviceTalks Boston keynote address. “We know that we are producing therapeutic benefit, but it feels like a video game. As a result, we’ve made an effort to make it also appear like a video game.”
