Project Background
Stay connected, prevent lonelinessDuring the global COVID-19 lockdown, many older adults with serious underlying medical conditions have been at higher risk for serious complications from the virus. Many have been staying safe by staying home and social distancing, but are now at increased risk of social isolation and loneliness, which can result in depression, anxiety and other health issues. So how can we help those older adults fight against emotional, cognitive, and physical decline?
The Mission
The purpose of this design solution is to decrease older adults’ depression and health problems during this pandemic. According to a report, “Many of our older adults are not getting out to physical therapy, not getting out to the doctor, not going out for coffee with friends, not going to the senior center” and “They’re just walking and moving less.” I wanted to make their inert and lethargic days more exciting and active.
Design System
Process
Research
Throughout the research, I found that isolated adults have a higher chance of developing health problems. Also, relapse of their mental health condition due to restrictions on visitors and in person meetings to facilitate other types of contact in this pandemic.
2. Quantitative Data
After reading at news and personal stories about the impact of COVID-19 on older adults, the outcome:
46% of them reported that they infrequently interacted with friends, neighbors or family outside their household
56% reported they often felt isolated from others double the 27% who felt isolated in a similar poll 2018
One in four (24%) adults ages 65 and older reported anxiety or depression in August 2020
3. Territory Map
To first understand and plan the structure, I first drew out a territory map to define the cause and effect interchanging between the target user and COVID-19.
01
Messages
02
Video Chat
03
Reminder
Project Outcome
Project Gather supports the older adults’ future and health in this endless pandemic. Gather is an application that helps older adults improve their health and social interaction in this pandemic. It also has a feature that informs users daily to-do list with reminders. The main device is a tablet since the target user is old adults, it’s easier for them to use via big screen.
How it works
The solution is provided in both tablet and phone applications. It builds on their everyday life and informs users daily to-do list with providing features that improve the communication with others. The app includes a video chat service where they can explore the new world or anywhere they want while talking to their friends and families.
