Overview
With the global elderly population expected to double by 2050, welfare technology is often seen as a cost-effective solution to support aging societies.
This concept and research explores how technology can enhance mental well-being, emphasizing the importance of human connection.
Through research and user testing I found that a tactile, intimate communication device fosters closeness is the most pleasurable for the user.
The project designed a tactile communication device that helped the elderly stay connected to family and reduced feelings of loneliness by stimulating the release of the hormone oxytocin through its tactile design.
The concept was nominated for the "best idea" in the welfare technology startup competition, CareWare Next, in 2017 under the company name Soli.
Approach
This project adopts a Design Thinking approach inspired by Design Driven Innovation, balancing user insights with expert perspectives.
While user involvement remains important, it is not the primary driver of ideation, as in Participatory Design. Instead, expert interpreters help shape innovation where users may lack the language or foresight to do so.
The research and analysis was done as part of my master thesis.
Marcus Fleckner © 2025
Copenhagen