Designing solutions for older adults presents unique challenges. Technology adoption among this demographic is often low, and platforms must balance simplicity with meaningful functionality. Existing solutions were fragmented: they failed to integrate local community resources, caregiver oversight, and social engagement in a way that is safe, scalable, and user-friendly. Additionally, hyper-local matchmaking required thoughtful design to ensure meaningful, trust-based connections without overburdening users or support networks.
We approached the challenge with a human-centered, systems-driven methodology. Through contextual research, including interviews with elderly participants, caregivers, and community stakeholders, we identified key pain points and patterns in daily routines. Insights informed a platform designed to: Facilitate local, interest-based connections using geolocation to match users within a 1–5 mile radius. Strengthen support networks, enabling companions and caregivers to coordinate activities and monitor wellbeing. Prioritize accessibility, with large, clear interfaces, intuitive navigation, and optional voice-assisted features. Build community engagement, creating a circular ecosystem where users, companions, and local resources reinforce one another. The design combined behavioral insights, service design principles, and digital product best practices to create a platform that is both usable and socially impactful.
Our Process
Since its introduction, Second Self has facilitated meaningful connections across local communities, increasing social interaction and engagement among elderly users. Caregivers report improved coordination and visibility, allowing them to provide support more efficiently. Beyond metrics, the platform has strengthened local social ecosystems, making interactions more reliable, relevant, and reciprocal. For Soazi, Second Self exemplifies our approach: designing systems that are human-centered, contextually aware, and strategically integrated, demonstrating how thoughtful design can create sustainable social impact.
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(2016-25©)
