Ease

Ce qu'il fait

It is a walking aid designed for people with dementia and cognitive disabilities. It addresses cognitive challenges often overlooked in traditional canes. It reduces cognitive strain with high-contrast colors, a unique design handle, and a self-standing base.

Votre source d'inspiration

I was inspired by research into cognitive accessibility and human-centered design. The studies I found show that people with dementia struggle with traditional mobility aids due to difficulties with spatial awareness, attention span, and object recognition. By applying principles of inclusive design, This discovery inspired me to design a mobility aid that empowers dementia and cognitive challenges community, fosters independence, and prolongs well-being

Comment ça marche

Ease integrates cognitive accessibility principles into its design, incorporating: Stimulating Color: The cane’s color contrasts with its surroundings, making it easier for users to locate. The color also provides subtle cognitive stimulation without overstimulation. Modular Design: Customizable attachments such as GPS tracking, LED lighting, a coin pocket, and a wallet allow users to tailor the walking aid to their needs. Adjustable height ensures ergonomic adaptability. Standing Base: A stable base enables the cane to stand up on its own, eliminating the need to lean it against surfaces. This makes it easier to retrieve, particularly for users with motor impairments, while also providing a more stable walking experience. Ergonomic Grip & Loop Handle: A ergonomic grip are comfortable, while a unique loop design prevents accidental drops. This allows users to focus their cognitive energy on navigating their surroundings rather than holding onto the cane.

Processus de conception

The design process for Ease originally began with researching the stigma around mobility aids and their rejection by older adults. While studying this, I found a study on fall risks among people with dementia, which revealed that traditional walking aids often increase cognitive strain, leading to improper use and higher fall risks. This is because it requires users to maintain proper posture and gait, demanding more cognitive effort than walking unaided. This discovery reshaped the project’s focus. Early prototypes explored different handle shapes, weight distributions, and usability improvements. High-contrast colors were tested to enhance visibility without overstimulation. The loop handle evolved to provide a secure grip and prevent drops, while the self-standing base ensured easy retrieval without leaning. Extensive user testing refined the design, resulting in a walking aid that integrates ergonomic support, intuitive interaction, and cognitive-friendly features. Ease aims to foster safer, more independent movement while reducing cognitive strain, providing both function and reassurance to users.

En quoi est-il différent ?

Ease stands out from traditional walking aids by addressing both physical and cognitive challenges. Unlike standard canes that focus solely on stability, Ease incorporates cognitive accessibility principles, making it intuitive for people with dementia and cognitive impairments. Its high-contrast color scheme enhances visibility, reducing confusion and improving recognition in different environments. The loop handle offers a secure, ergonomic grip and prevents accidental drops. The self-standing base eliminates the need to lean the cane against surfaces, ensuring it is always within reach. Moreover, its modular design allows for personalization, adapting to users’ evolving needs over time.

Plans pour l'avenir

For the future of this project, I aim to conduct more extensive testing with the dementia community and experts to validate and refine my hypothesis further. User feedback and professional insights will help enhance Ease’s effectiveness, ensuring it truly meets the needs of people with cognitive impairments. Additionally, there is potential for this project to evolve into a fully developed product, bringing an innovative, inclusive mobility aid to market and improving daily life for those who need it most.

Récompenses