Cup for Arthritis, Parkinson’s and Visually Impaired

What it does

The Cup solves problems people with physical disabilities face while working in the kitchen, specifically drinking. The cup addresses issues of each disability together such as tremor and spillage, unable to see water level, joint pain etc.

Your inspiration

I was inspired by my own experience with my grandparents. I realized they have common issues with physical disabilities. After further investigation, I found out not only that a huge population suffers from the same problem but also are looking for solutions. Especially for elders, taking medication and drinking water, even though specific, is a huge part of their lives. I wish to solve problems elders face on a daily basis: not being able to see water level when pouring hot drinks, spillage from tremor, joint pain etc.

How it works

Lid An organic lid with an easy-to-feel opening for flow controlled drinking. The wooden dowel serves as a visual aid that floats when the cup is full. Users would be able to tell how much water is in the cup and lift the knob from the raised dowel if needed. The dent lid design allows nose space so users would not have to tilt their head in case of joint pain. Cup The cup includes a weighted bottom which reduces tremor for Parkinson's patients. I added rubber to the lower part for friction and shock absorbance when dropped. The cup is also has a tapered body for grip and a rounded lip for easier pouring and a more comfortable drinking experience. Coaster (Optional) The coaster with a magnet that keeps the cup stable and easy to aim while pouring.

Design process

After interviewing consumers, relatives and local nursing and rehabilitation home, I identified problems such as spillage, poor aim, inability to see details, joint pain while holding and drinking, and uncontrollable movement. I designed prototypes that include features that addressed these problems. The first stage of the development involved understanding the structure. Rough models were made out of foam to visualize the size and proportions. After testing them on few people, I finalized on a structure that is more comfortable to hold. The second group of prototypes was made with added features. They include 3D printed parts with wood and steel features that work as a functional model. After interviewing and going through reviews with medical professionals, the features were revised. While the exaggerated features helped patient, they looked too childish and ridiculous for everyday use. I sketched out more elegant forms while keeping the functionality of the previous ones. I changed the proportions and introduced a more organic lid with an easy-to-feel opening for flow controlled drinking and made the final model.

How it is different

Solutions that are commercially available do not consider multiple physical disabilities. Usually, they are aimed at fixing one specific type of disability. They do not consider that the user might be involved in more that one disability. Also, available products are designed for medical equipment instead of daily use. Most important part of designing for disabilities is understanding the dignity factor: the need for help without giving up living norms. Understanding the users’ inability to perform like they use to, the features should be subtle and aesthetically pleasing while function for specific needs. Unfortunately, commercially available products are too childish, clumsy or abnormal for daily use.

Future plans

I want to keep testing my models and include more improvements marketed towards my users. I wish that my exploration could help improve their lives even if just a little.

Awards