Teenager Designs Alpha Monitor to Aid Dementia Patients, Inspired by Grandmother’s Struggles

Hyderabad Teen Develops Life-Saving Wearable for Alzheimer's Patients

In 2018, Hemesh Chadalavada, then 12, witnessed his grandmother, who had been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, leave the gas stove on after making tea at 2 a.m. This alarming incident and her tendency to wander prompted Hemesh to design a solution to ensure the safety of dementia patients.

By 2019, the young innovator began developing the Alpha Monitor, a wearable device that alerts caregivers in emergencies, such as falls or wandering. Over 20 prototypes later, Hemesh perfected the device, which includes a customizable wearable and an alarm system. The device monitors body temperature, pulse, posture, and movement, functioning within a 1–2 km range without Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. It can also connect to an app for remote monitoring, making it invaluable for families of dementia patients.

Hemesh collaborated with the Alzheimer’s & Related Disorders Society of India (ARDSI) to refine the Alpha Monitor. His creation has earned him prestigious awards, including the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Shakti Puraskar and a ₹1 crore grant through Samsung Solve for Tomorrow.

Now 17 and a Class 12 student, Hemesh balances his studies with his mission to launch the Alpha Monitor commercially in the next six months. He envisions advancing India’s dementia care and pursuing a degree in robotics.

Beyond the Alpha Monitor, Hemesh has also developed innovative solutions like Universis, an AI college counselor; CreatoWise, a tool for YouTube channel growth; and SessionFix, a platform for hosting online seminars.

Hemesh credits his success to leveraging online resources effectively, proving that the internet can empower individuals to create meaningful impact. “The happiest moment for me is seeing families benefit from my device. It’s the greatest reward,” he says, highlighting the life-changing potential of thoughtful innovation.