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Digital interface 

This project reinforced the importance of designing with empathy, particularly for vulnerable user groups. By combining physical simplicity with smart digital connectivity, we were able to deliver a solution that’s both human and practical - and ultimately, one that could save lives.

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2020

OK - Safety alarm system for seniors and their next of kin

School project

Team: Elias Cox

Challenge

This project was driven by a deep understanding of the emotional and practical challenges faced by elderly people living independently. A key insight emerged during early research: many seniors feared not being discovered in time following an emergency. The objective was to create a discreet, reliable alarm system that prioritised ease of use and peace of mind - for both the user and their loved ones.

Goal

Designing a simple, effective safety solution for elderly individuals living alone

Approach

We conducted user interviews to gain direct insight into the daily routines, fears, and preferences of elderly individuals. From this research, we developed several low-fidelity prototypes and iteratively refined them through user testing.

The interaction model was intentionally kept minimal and familiar, reducing cognitive load and ensuring that the system would be trusted and consistently used.

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My role

  • User interviews with elderly individuals and families

  • Prototyping 

  • Interaction design & user testing

  • Accessibility & inclusivity considerations

Prototyping

From these insights, we identified three core components: a physical button, a visual light indicator, and a sound alert. We explored various form languages through quick foam mock-ups, testing different sizes and configurations to determine what felt most intuitive for users with varying levels of mobility and vision. 

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Senior interaction

Building on the final concept, we developed a functional prototype that included LED light feedback. The design used soft, glowing indicators to prompt interaction: an orange light when the user needed to press the button, and a red light if the interaction was missed - communicating clearly without causing stress.

Image sources:

1. © 2020 Elias Cox, 2. © 2020 by Emma Thorman, 3. © 2020 by Emma Thorman, 4. © 2020 by Emma Thorman, 5. © 2020 by Elias Cox, 6. © 2020 by Emma Thorman 

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