Care Lab Final Report
Cissie Wang
12/18/2023
GenConnect
— a platform that fosters vibrant intergenerational connections in the local community
Care Statement
This project aims to bridge the generation gap and ultimately enhance not only the emotional well-being of both the elders and the younger generation but also gain insights and skills outside of their own perspective through the power of genuine human connections.
Community
Baby Boom Generation
(born between 1946 and 1964) 59-77
form the largest cohort of retirees in American history, will likely live longer than any previous group and will be looking for ways to continue living productive lives Baby Boomers represent both an opportunity and a challenge for our society as they experience social isolation and loneliness They will be a unique labor force of volunteers looking to be helpful and seeking personal growth and value in doing so
Generation Z
(born between 1995 and 2010) 13-28
were the first to come of age in the world of social media with its loss of privacy, shaming, and disinformation As a result, they are facing unique peer pressures and an unprecedented mental health crisis that threatens their progression into healthy adulthood They are seeking out a variety of ways to help improve their self-esteem and sense of fulfillment
Context and Research
Benefits for Seniors:
1 Emotional Well-being: Interacting with younger generations can bring immense joy and emotional fulfillment to seniors The companionship, love, and attention from younger family members or friends can alleviate feelings of loneliness and depression, promoting overall emotional well-being
2 Mental Stimulation: Engaging in conversations, playing games, and participating in activities with younger individuals stimulates cognitive functions for seniors These
interactions help keep their minds active, potentially reducing the risk of cognitive decline
3 Sense of Purpose: Seniors often find renewed purpose in life when they connect with younger generations They may take on roles as mentors or caregivers, contributing to the growth and development of the younger individuals This sense of purpose can have a profound impact on their mental and emotional state
4 Better Physical Health: The companionship and support provided by younger individuals can encourage seniors to stay physically active and maintain healthier lifestyles Whether it's going for walks, gardening, or participating in family activities, these interactions can lead to improved physical health
5 Interpersonal Skills: Seniors can enhance their social and communication skills by interacting with younger generations This can be especially valuable for those who may have become more isolated as they age Improved social skills can boost self-confidence and overall happiness.
6. Intergenerational Learning: Seniors have a wealth of life experiences and wisdom to share. When they connect with younger individuals, they can pass down valuable knowledge, traditions, and life lessons. This intergenerational learning enriches both parties, ensuring that valuable cultural and familial knowledge is preserved.
Benefits for the Young:
1 Wisdom and Guidance: Younger generations gain access to the wisdom and life experiences of the elderly. This guidance can be invaluable in making important life decisions and navigating challenges. Elders' advice can provide a sense of direction and comfort to the young.
2. Respect for Aging: Interacting with seniors fosters respect and empathy for the aging process. Young individuals learn to appreciate the contributions of the elderly and develop a more compassionate perspective on aging and the challenges it entails.
3. Family and Cultural Connections: Intergenerational bonding strengthens family ties and cultural connections. Younger family members can learn about their heritage, traditions, and values from their elders. This passing down of cultural knowledge helps preserve a sense of identity and heritage
4 Patience and Empathy: The elderly often requires patience and care, and interactions with them teach younger individuals important life skills Developing empathy and
understanding for the challenges of aging fosters personal growth and emotional maturity
5 Life Enrichment: Younger generations can benefit from the stories, anecdotes, and experiences shared by seniors These interactions broaden their perspectives, enhance their knowledge base, and provide valuable life lessons
6 Combating Ageism: Interacting with seniors can challenge stereotypes and ageism in society When younger individuals experience the vitality, wisdom, and unique qualities of the elderly, it can help break down barriers and promote respect for all age groups
HMW
In conclusion, intergenerational connections offer a multitude of advantages to both the elderly and the young These relationships not only combat social isolation but also provide a foundation for emotional well-being, personal growth, and mutual support, fostering a stronger and more compassionate society
How might we foster intergenerational connections in the local community to enhance intergenerational understanding/bonds and gain social-emotional wellness through the journey?
Research Process
Throughout the research process, I engaged with various stakeholders to gather diverse perspectives This included community members of different age groups, local organizations, experts in intergenerational studies, and potential collaborators in the fields of technology and community development Most of the information gathered was based on qualitative research I conducted community engagements with two sets of intergenerational groups One is done online and one is done in person. I summarized the insights into four main points below:
Insights Obtained:
● Diverse Interests: The community exhibited diverse interests, from traditional activities to modern hobbies, emphasizing the need for a platform accommodating a wide range of preferences.
● Technological Accessibility: Insights from community members highlighted the importance of ensuring the platform's user interface is intuitive and accessible to individuals with varying levels of technological literacy
● Desire for Inclusivity: The community expressed a strong desire for inclusivity, emphasizing the importance of breaking down stereotypes and fostering genuine connections among different age groups
● Community Empowerment: Collaborative events were identified as a means of empowering community members, giving them a platform to share skills and stories, creating a sense of ownership
Concept Statement
An innovative platform fostering vibrant intergenerational connections through playful and purposeful events. Break stereotypes, share stories, and bridge the generation gap as diverse age groups come together to learn, create, and celebrate life's experiences, enriching emotional well-being and fostering a community where every voice is heard and valued.
Ideation
The platform focuses on user experience and inclusivity. Implement user-friendly interfaces suitable for both age groups. Include diverse event categories that cater to various interests and preferences. Enable easy event creation and participation with clear instructions. Incorporate features for collaborative planning and communication. Implement a review system to highlight successful events and foster a positive community.
User Flow / Information Architecture
● User Registration/Onboarding: Users sign up with basic details or social media accounts. Provide a brief introduction to the platform's purpose and benefits
● Profile Creation: Users complete profiles with interests and hobbies. Age will also be asked but only for administration purposes, not displayed in the profile. Encourage users to add a profile picture for personalization. Include a "Fun Facts" section where users share amusing tidbits about themselves.
● Home Screen: Display a feed of upcoming events in the user's city. Categorize events based on interests or activities. Implement a surprise spinner or daily challenge that suggests random events.
● Event Exploration: Users browse events and filter based on categories or dates. Clicking on an event reveals details, including date, time, location, and participant demographics
● Event Creation: Allow users to create events with details like title, description, date, time, and location Can be virtual or in-person Include category tags for easy event classification Create virtual badges or "high-fives" that participants can exchange during events
● Event Participation: Users join events with a simple click Provide options for event organizers to set participant limits if necessary
● Communication: Include a chat feature for event participants to communicate Send reminders and updates about the upcoming events
● Post-Event Interaction: Encourage participants to share their experiences or photos from the event Implement a rating or feedback system for events Enable users to create and share event highlight reels with animated overlays
● User Engagement Features: Introduce gamification elements, like badges or rewards for active users. Highlight trending or popular events.
● Settings and Notifications: Allow users to customize notification preferences. Provide account settings and privacy controls.
● Feedback Loop: Collect feedback through surveys or ratings to continuously improve the platform. Regularly update the platform based on user suggestions.
Example Events
These events aim to create a platform for shared experiences, mutual learning, and breaking down preconceived notions about age-related abilities and interests
1. Storytelling Circles: Encourage both generations to share personal stories from a certain age perspective, fostering understanding and connection
2 Skill Swap Workshops: Create events where elders share traditional skills, and younger participants teach modern skills
3 Collaborative Art Projects: Engage in group art projects where everyone contributes, breaking down age-related creative stereotypes
4 Community Gardening Day: Collaborate on a community garden, allowing different age groups to work together and share insights
5 Cooking Experiences: Organize cooking classes where elders share traditional recipes, and younger participants bring modern twists
6 Technology Learning Sessions: Pair younger individuals with elders for technology learning sessions, promoting mutual mentorship
7 Inter-generational Book Club: Choose books that resonate with both age groups, fostering shared discussions and perspectives
8. Fitness Challenges: Arrange inclusive fitness activities suitable for all ages, emphasizing the importance of health.
9. Local History Tours: Explore the community's history together, combining perspectives from different generations.
10.DIY Craft Workshops: Host craft sessions where everyone can unleash their creativity, dismantling stereotypes about age and artistic abilities.
11. Volunteering Opportunities: Participate in community service projects, emphasizing the collective impact of diverse age groups.
12.Swinging the 20s: What was life like when you were in your 20s? Share stories and experiences Wear styles from that era!
First Prototype Iteration
Figma interactive prototype: https://www.figma.com/proto/kXJG2UfaFo6dLSoBh1vigU/CareLab?page-id=0%3A1&type=desi gn&node-id=1-2&viewport=-304%2C301%2C0 16&t=nBMLDFoiHBro1599-1&scaling=min-zoom &starting-point-node-id=1%3A2&mode=design
Page
See event search results in map format
Event detail page
Sign up page
Profile building page
Impact
The overall impact sought is a community that embraces diversity, values the contributions of every generation, and fosters genuine connections that go beyond age-related stereotypes. Through playful and purposeful interactions, the platform aims to create lasting positive changes in behavior, attitudes, and the overall social fabric of the community.
1. Behavioral Change: Encouraging active participation in intergenerational events can lead to a shift in behavior by breaking down barriers and promoting inclusivity. By creating a platform that is engaging and enjoyable, individuals are more likely to embrace the idea of connecting with people from different age groups.
2. Attitude Shift: The platform aims to challenge and reshape existing stereotypes and attitudes associated with different age groups. Through shared experiences and collaborative activities, users may develop a more open-minded and empathetic attitude toward others, fostering a sense of community and understanding.
3. Community Building: By providing a space for diverse age groups to come together, the platform seeks to build a stronger sense of community The shared activities and connections formed through the platform can contribute to a more cohesive and supportive community environment
4 Skill and Knowledge Exchange: The platform promotes a culture of mutual learning and skill exchange Younger individuals can learn from the wisdom and experiences of elders, while elders can gain insights into modern perspectives This exchange contributes to a richer community with a broader knowledge base
5 Emotional Well-being: Connecting with others, sharing stories, and engaging in enjoyable activities have a positive impact on emotional well-being The platform aims to create a supportive network that enhances the mental and emotional health of its users
6 Breaking Down Social Barriers: By facilitating interactions across generations, the platform seeks to break down social barriers and create a more inclusive society This can lead to increased social cohesion and a sense of belonging for individuals from different age groups
1 Community Partnerships: Form partnerships with local organizations, schools, community centers, and businesses to expand the reach and impact of the platform Collaborating with existing community networks enhances sustainability
2 Scalable Technology: Develop a robust and scalable technology infrastructure to accommodate a growing user base Regularly update and improve the platform based on user feedback and technological advancements
3 User-Centered Design: Continuously prioritize user feedback and evolve the platform based on the changing needs and preferences of the community A user-centric approach ensures ongoing engagement and relevance
4 Community Ambassadors: Recruit and empower community ambassadors who are passionate about intergenerational connections These individuals can play a vital role in promoting the platform, organizing local events, and fostering a sense of community
5 Educational Initiatives: Implement educational programs to raise awareness about the benefits of intergenerational connections. Workshops, seminars, and awareness campaigns can contribute to changing societal perceptions and attitudes.
6. Continuous Innovation: Foster a culture of innovation within the platform, introducing new features, event formats, and engagement strategies to keep the community excited and involved. Regular updates prevent stagnation and ensure long-term interest.
7. Global Collaboration: Explore opportunities for global collaboration to share best practices, learn from similar initiatives worldwide, and adapt successful strategies to enhance the platform's impact.