As a group of four design students, we were passionate about using design to tackle real-world problems. Our work with Senior Residents of Waymark Gardens was to develop innovative solutions to their issues regarding entertainment and communication.
We took an empathetic approach to understanding their needs, and by working together, we were able to come up with creative and effective solutions that addressed their challenges. We were committed to helping our clients make a difference in the community.
Research Participants
Linda
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Resident
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3rd time moving in
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Used to help with library book returns
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Hobbies: Reading, cross-stitching
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Core user
Kim
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Asst. Community Manager
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Worked for 5 years at waymark gardens.
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Onsite 24-7
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Service provider and user
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One of the two pillars in servicing the residents.
Lorraine
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Service Coordinator
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Worked for 1 year
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Connecting residents with public services
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Working for another two senior communities under Biltmore Properties
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Office right next to the library
Rochelle
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Program specialist of Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at Arizona State University
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Program publication
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Reaching out to potential members and facilitate them with their learning journey.
Dr. Eric Luster
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As the Chairman he presides at all meetings of the Board.
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Makes a complete annual report of the work of the year and the condition of the Corporation.
Post Interview Debrief
General Affinity Mapping
Personal Notes and Observations
How might we make important information/announcements more accessible to all residents?
How might we introduce wide range of genres of books in the library, in order to attract more readers to the library.
How might we introduce new technology to senior members of the community?
Design Solution
A Kiosk explicitly designed for the waymark garden residents and staff to help them communicate better. These kiosks can be placed at various parts of the property and are designed to keep in mind the resident's immobility and other restrictions due to health.
From the staff's end, they need a better way to inform the residents of their availability to meet and discuss, keeping in mind the current situation and the lack of staff on board; these ID cards can be scanned at the various checkpoints on the property, and the team will be able to let the residents know that they are held up somewhere else and not available now.
