Bridge to memories

Purpose and goal

The aim of the project was to investigate aspects of how digital solutions could be created to provide a greater sense of coherence of the elderly. Furthermore, the project aimed to see if studied theory and conducted interviews could result in general guidelines that can facilitate the development of digital solutions. Theory has been examined and interviews were conducted. The experiences were summarized as recommendations for developers. Most of the recommendations are of such a general nature that they can be applied to the physical world and physical activities.

Results and expected effects

The project presents a list of interests & activities appreciated by the elderly which could be of interest for developers. Furthermore, recommendations were deducted concerning: Age-related changes. e.g. - Vision, hearing, stamina & motor skills - Brain, memory & reminiscence Sense of coherence and related needs. e.g. - Soc and culture - Soc and relatives General guidelines from interaction- and experience design. e.g. - User Frustration Our expectation is that developers will use the recommendations to get to know their target audience, and that more solutions are developed.

Approach and implementation

In the project, literature and research was studied in the areas of psychology, biology and care of the elderly as well as theories in interaction design (IxD) and user experience (UxD). The theory has been supplemented by a qualitative needs analysis of the interview material from a total of 23 respondents distributed among elderly, staff and families. In addition, a leisure activity at a nursing home was observed. Through coding and categorization of the material, recommendations have been developed that may be useful for the development of digital tools.