The problem
The COVID-19 pandemic has created unique challenges for the entire globe. In some cases, the challenges are the intensification of previously existing concerns. Such is the case with isolation and loneliness in the 65+ population. In addition, chronic illness decreases mobility and causes loss of sight and hearing, all impacting the quality of life for aging individuals.
Task
The COVID-19 pandemic has created unique challenges for the entire globe. In some cases, the challenges are the intensification of previously existing concerns. Such is the case with isolation and loneliness in the 65+ population. In addition, chronic illness decreases mobility and causes loss of sight and hearing; all impact the quality of life for aging individuals.
Conceptual solution
Enhancing physical activity, routine, and mental health by decreasing loneliness and isolation through pet fostering services designed for seniors.
My Role
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Researcher
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Medical consultant
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Visual designer
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Service designer
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Sensemaker
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Storytelling designer
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Logo and presentation co-designer.
The team
Alisa Elliott
Mirna Tejeda
Philip Kuo
Rie Takeuchi
Long self-quarantines and limited social interactions are resulting in loneliness and depression for the senior population. Seniors are trying to reintegrate into the normal dynamics of society but struggle with fear and uncertainty. Services are needed to build connection and confidence for seniors in their individual environments.
Problem framing
Source: Adobe Stock
Synthesis
77
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Assumptions we made about the limitations of age and barriers to technology participation were inaccurate for the interviews we conducted. Instead, consistent with our initial beliefs, was the disruption felt at nearly every level, for 65+ individuals, around connection, and physical contact with friends and family, during the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Secondary research led to the understanding that the sub-group of 65+ individuals most affected by shelter-in-place orders are those managing chronic health conditions. The length and thoroughness of isolation throughout COVID create the most significant impact on 65+ age adults who are most vulnerable to isolation even without a pandemic. Increasing removal from daily activities, friendships, and family results in depression, anxiety, and a general decline in mental health. (Freedman & Nicolle, 2020)
Sensemaking + Insights
Throughout our interviews, it became clear that there is a significant range of ability and (in)dependence in the 65+ population. Our goal is to generate solutions that are available to all but especially inclusive at lower levels of ability and higher levels of dependency. Our solutions will ideally include interaction with others in some form or manner.
Sensemaking at the studio
Redesign pet fostering services to serve
the needs of seniors:
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Improve empowerment & independence for 65+ seniors
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Facilitate 65+ seniors feel connected
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Find and make accessible 65+ senior-friendly tools for interaction Interaction & communication.
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Ameliorate sense of self-worth and meaningful work in seniors
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Improve mental health by decreasing loneliness and isolation in seniors
Design criteria
Source: Adobe Stock
Prototype
Pets have been found to have a pivotal role in providing a range of mental health benefits. For example, to protect against loneliness and depressive symptoms.
Significant research supports the positive impacts of human-animal interaction.
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Elements often overlap but ultimately demonstrate the reduction of stress on one or more levels, for our target population.
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Reducing stress response
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decreased cortisol levels
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Tactile grounding & sensory distraction for anxiety
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Increase of social capital
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Decrease in loneliness
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31% reduction in death from cardiovascular disease as a result of lower stress
Main takeaways
We were having a task assigned can help in focusing and defining the problem. However, in this case, it was a constraint. The users were the ones who dictated the direction of this project. At first, it was complicated to follow that path. However, recognizing that we were assuming information was what opened our minds to redirect the project.
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​Redirecting a project as many times as necessary can feel like a defeat. But user-centered design demands multiple options and solutions - that's what makes a project successful.
