The Gamma Sound Project marks a significant step forward in the field of cognitive care through the use of sound modulation technology.

This innovative approach democratizes cognitive care by making it universally accessible, easy to implement and free of charge. Another innovation is the strategic use of media and location to deliver cognitive care through partnerships, that seamlessly integrate the Gamma Wave Sound experience into community infrastructures.

By transforming every place where sound is heard into a potential space for cognitive care, this groundbreaking initiative tackles the challenges of an aging population, making it a compelling entry for the Innovation category.

Japan is a hyper-aging society, with nearly 30% of the total population over the age of 65. By 2025, it is predicted that one in five seniors will suffer from dementia, a disease with no definitive cure and a devastating mental, physical and economic burden for those affected.

Worldwide, the number of people with dementia is expected to triple to more than 150 million by 2050. With a high annual treatment cost of approximately $30,000 and drug development and approval timelines of over a decade to reach the public, there is an urgent need for alternative cognitive care approaches beyond traditional methods such as light and sound therapy, medication and exercise.

This escalating crisis underscores that dementia is not just a challenge for Japan, but is now a global societal threat and a critical concern for humanity.

Dementia is a pressing global concern, with countries such as Japan, Hong Kong, South Korea, Italy and Spain facing this common challenge. Japan, by far the world's most hyper-aging nation, leads the trend with 30% of its current population over the age of 65.

By 2025, it is predicted that one in five seniors will suffer from dementia, including a growing number of early-onset cases. Japan faces several significant challenges related to its rapidly aging population, including healthcare demand, caregiver shortages and social security.

Despite this growing concern, only a small percentage of people are taking preventive measures, and patient satisfaction with existing treatments remains low and difficult to sustain.

Ongoing studies show that exposure to 40 Hz sound and light inhibits the decline in cognitive function. However, current treatments involving flickering lights, brain exercises, and expensive medications are difficult to sustain.

Despite the widely recognized importance of preventing dementia, many are reluctant to change their lifestyles.

The Gamma Wave Sound Project is an initiative to combat dementia on a societal level using sound, aiming to create a world where everyone can receive cognitive healthcare effortlessly. Developed by Pixie Dust Technologies, a wave technology pioneer, and Shionogi Pharmaceutical, a leader in dementia research, "Gamma Wave Modulation Technology" converts any audio source into 40Hz gamma wave sound using a patented algorithm, that induces gamma waves in the brain, potentially enhancing cognitive function.

This innovative approach transforms any sound-filled space into a potential cognitive care space as listeners enjoy the music wherever they are, through common auditory platforms such as radio and TV.

2016 - 2019 : The discoveries that marked the beginning of technological inventions in this field

- Revealed groundbreaking basic research at MIT: Published in journals ""Nature"" and ""Cell"" on improving cognitive functions and memory through brain and gamma wave stimulation in a mouse model of Alzheimer's

June 21, 2022 - Commencement of joint research: Pixie Dust Technologies and Shionogi Pharmaceutical

September 6-12, 2022 - Conducted in-depth interviews with over 25 target users (people with Alzheimer's, their families, and seniors interested in dementia prevention

September 21, 2022 - Formed a strategic business partnership

October 11, 2022 - Results of joint research presented at Japan Society for Dementia Prevention -outcomes of brainwave studies utilizing unique modulated easy-listening sounds

April 18, 2023 - Established Japan's inaugural alliance with leading companies in four key sectors - Insurance, Telecommunications, Nursing Care, and Real Estate

April 18, 2023 - Developed a real-time modulation speaker for TV

July 30, 2023 - Confirmed safety research

September 12, 2023 - Acquired a patent in Japan for modulation technology

September 12, 2023 - Composed two original modulated soundtracks, melodically captivating and brain wave-stimulation

September 21, 2023 #World Alzheimer's Day - Integrated into a variety of settings throughout Japan (e.g. BGM in facilities, programs, and entertainment sound sources)

September 28, 2023 - Implementation in Medical Facilities: BGM in providing in-home medical services for the elderly

October 18, 2023 - Mayor's Enthusiastic Endorsement: Meetings with mayors of aging cities to discuss cooperation and explore possibilities

November 8, 2023 - Implementation with Locals: BGM at locally operated dementia cafes and events sponsored by the city

November 13, 2023 - Networking Expansion: Awarded at Japan's ACC Tokyo Creativity Awards, Japan’s largest and most prestigious accolade

November 13, 2023 - Ministry official praises 'Gamma Wave Sound' for dementia prevention potential in his interview

November 21, 2023 - Global Expansion: BGM in transportation systems (International flights to and from Singapore)

January 2024~ (including March 2024) - Extensive Expansion for Infrastructure: BGM for essential living infrastructure services - Japanese railway, National convenience store, and B2B background music service system

(Starting March 1, 2024) - Expanded Government Facilities: BGM in facilities under the Jurisdiction of the Ministry of Justice

Ongoing studies have revealed that

40Hz gamma wave exposure can

potentially enhance brain

function by reducing white matter

atrophy and myelin loss, key factors

in the progression of Alzheimer’s disease.

Similar to how alpha waves are associated with relaxation, gamma waves are linked to cognitive performance. Research indicates that people with Alzheimer's exhibit lower gamma wave activity compared to healthy individuals, is going to potentially illustrate a connection between gamma waves and dementia.

Gamma wave sound technology innovatively modulates audio into a special 40 Hz frequency, known to stimulate brain gamma waves and potentially enhance cognitive function. Traditional research found that buzzer-like sounds at this frequency were unpleasant for regular listening, but our groundbreaking "gamma wave sound modulation technology" successfully modulates any sound into a 40 Hz frequency that is comfortable to hear.

This technology allows for the integration of gamma wave sounds into everyday life through music, TV, and radio. Concurrent research and development aim to enhance its efficacy in dementia treatment, and it has been confirmed that the technology is no adverse effects on the human body

The Gamma Sound Project, with its seamless integration, sustainability, and free accessibility, is rapidly expanding globally, attracting interest from diverse communities, corporations, and governments that share the same vision. The alliance has successfully brought the Gamma Wave Sound experience to numerous public touch points, impacting over 8 million individuals and garnering significant media attention with 6.5 billion worldwide impressions. The growing network now extends to 930,000+ touch points, potentially affecting over 210 million people, with $0 media spend.

Upcoming initiatives include collaborations with major artists to modulate their hit tracks and the release of plug-in software for creators. Music, as a universal language, holds immense potential for application and can spread faster than traditional treatments or medications.

The Gamma Wave Sound Project is not only transforming dementia care, but also shaping the future of cognitive healthcare. This innovative approach marks a significant step toward a world free from dementia.