The caregiver is playing with the elders during the exercise time.
The Challenge
How might we soothe seniors with Alzheimer's and assist caregivers in nursing homes with design?
The Outcome
A multi-textured and colorful sensory toy can be played with by up to three seniors at once, helping those with Alzheimer's disease to relieve anxiety and interact with others.
Introduction
Roly Poly is an interactive recreational toy designed for seniors with Alzheimer's disease. Our team of professionals from different fields collaborated with Ren Shin Wellness Park in Taichung to develop it. Through various types of research and product testing, we created Roly Poly, which provides stress relief and relaxation for mild to moderate dementia patients using sensory stimulation and various ways of playing. Additionally, it can have emotional soothing effects that help reduce the burden and pressure on caregivers.
Duration: 1 Month
My Role: Graphic Designer and Researcher
Organizer: 5% Design Action
Collaborator: Ren Shin Wellness Park
My Role: Graphic Designer and Researcher
Organizer: 5% Design Action
Collaborator: Ren Shin Wellness Park
Research and Design Process
Pain Point:
1. Nursing staff to seniors ratio is high (1:8 to 1:12).
2. Caregivers focus on elders' daily needs, with limited time for emotional support.
3. Elders may have to wait for assistance when caregivers are too busy.
The caregiver is assisting the elders during exercise time.
The caregiver is assisting the elder during exercise time, while other elders are watching and waiting.
Outcome
Based on our research, we designed a soft silicone toy, Roly Poly.
It can provides two difficulty levels for those with mild to moderate dementia based on their abilities and activity level.
Patients with dementia may push, pinch, rub, and tap while playing Roly Poly to achieve emotional calming and gaming functions. These actions can also help soothe their emotions through different activities in the game.
The Social Design Exhibition held by 5% Design Action in Taichung
Our Team and the Ren Shin Wellness Park
Special thanks to 5% Design Action
for opening up my first social design project!
for opening up my first social design project!
Thanks for reaching the bottom!
Roly Poly - 5% Design Action Workshop
