Improving Hygiene in Alzheimer’s Patients

Problem:
The inhibiting nature of semantic and short-term memory loss caused by Alzheimer’s disease (AD) severely impedes the ability of an individual to perform routine tasks. Patients struggle with sequential tasks as individual steps can be repeated unnecessarily or forgotten. Due to the sensitive nature of performing daily hygiene tasks the problem scope was defined to this area.

Methods Applied:
State-of-the-art and user research, surveys, needs assessments, brainstorming, sketching, 3D modeling, prototyping, user testing.

Solution:
A modular set of storage containers designed for the bathroom counter that uses high-contrast lighting in order to visually prompt individuals. The system is complemented by an LCD screen that features an animated character that provides both audio and visual prompts. Modules could be purchased individually or in sets to support certain tasks, such as hand washing (see prototype), hair brushing, teeth cleaning, etc. The entire system was prompted by a pressure sensing mat, which would decide tasks required based on time of day and what the user had performed previously.

Prototype:

Design Team:
Melina McLarty
Eric Migicovsky
Pirathayini Srikantha
Archana Gopal
Paul Marchwica
Caleb Gawne