Hidden Heroes: The Struggles of Caregivers || 11

First Prototypes

Caring for family members, especially those with special needs, can be both rewarding and challenging. As part of my research on improving family caregiving, I developed two minimal prototypes aimed at easing the burdens and enhancing the experiences of both caregivers and those receiving care. Below, I present an overview of these prototypes and their potential impacts.

Prototype 1: Care Coordination App

The first prototype is a mobile application designed for smartphones and tablets, aimed at simplifying the management of caregiving tasks among family members.

Key Features:

Task Management and Assignment:

  • Plan and assign tasks to team members.
  • Family members can volunteer for tasks.
  • A clear and organized task list helps in tracking progress.

Calendar Integration:

  • A shared calendar for scheduling and viewing appointments and tasks.
  • Helps in coordinating care activities seamlessly.

Shopping List:

  • A shared shopping list to ensure all necessary items are purchased.
  • Reduces the risk of missing out on essential supplies.

Social Corner:

  • A space for posting pictures and updates for all family members.
  • Keeps everyone connected and informed about the care recipient’s status.

Task Completion:

  • Users can tick off completed tasks.
  • Provides a sense of accomplishment and ensures nothing is overlooked.

Medication Reminders:

  • Timely reminders for administering medications.
  • Ensures adherence to medical schedules and reduces health risks.

Central Display:

  • The app can be displayed on a tablet mounted in the house.
  • Provides a constant, easily accessible overview for all family members.

Professional Integration:

  • Professional caregivers can get a quick overview of the care situation.
  • Reduces the need for lengthy handovers and briefings.

Benefits:

  • Streamlined Care Coordination: Simplifies communication and task management among family members and caregivers.
  • Enhanced Communication: Keeps everyone updated and involved, fostering a sense of community and shared responsibility.
  • Professional Efficiency: Makes it easier for professional caregivers to integrate into the care routine, saving time and reducing errors.

Prototype 2: Care Kit

The second prototype is a comprehensive care kit, a box containing essential items to assist in the caregiving process.

Contents:

DIY Tools:

  • Basic tools for small repairs and adjustments.
  • Enhances the caregiver’s ability to address minor issues independently.

Entertainment Items:

  • Items like playing cards and question games.
  • Facilitates shared activities, fostering a positive and engaging environment.

Handbook:

  • A guide with tips and information on caregiving.
  • Provides valuable insights and practical advice for various caregiving scenarios.

Journal/Gratitude Book:

  • A journal for recording daily experiences and expressing gratitude.
  • Encourages reflection and positivity, helping to manage stress and maintain a hopeful outlook.

Benefits:

  • Self-Help Resource: Offers tools and information to empower caregivers, reducing the feeling of helplessness in challenging situations.
  • Enhanced Communication: Redirects conversations towards engaging and non-medical topics, helping to maintain and strengthen relationships.
  • Emotional Support: The gratitude book and shared activities promote emotional well-being for both caregivers and care recipients.

Conclusion

Both prototypes aim to improve the caregiving experience by addressing different aspects of care. The Care Coordination App focuses on organization, communication, and efficiency, making the logistics of caregiving more manageable. In contrast, the Care Kit provides practical tools and emotional support, helping caregivers navigate the emotional and relational challenges of caregiving. Together, these prototypes offer a holistic approach to enhancing family caregiving, fostering a supportive and organized care environment.

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