Design Challenge
#2: How might we encourage our community to support one another and look out for those who are socially isolated?
Project Description
Many elderly who do not have smart TVs or smartphones to communicate with their loved ones during the current Circuit Breaker period in Singapore. The Singapore Government could provide a webcam kit to these isolated elderlies, where it can be easily installed with the help of technicians and connect to their current televisions. Making it easier for video call communications with their loved ones or caretakers.
Criteria #1: Value
During the current COVID-19 pandemic in Singapore, staying at home is encouraged and we are only allowed to visit our elderly parents only when necessary. However, visitations and contact make every one at risk of contracting the virus. Elderlies being alone and uncared for at the same time can pose as serious an issue as well.
Criteria #2: Inspiration
The Singapore Government could provide a webcam kit for these isolated elderlies where they can use this device to video call their loved ones. The device needs to be easy to use due to the elderly being non-tech savvy.
1. Subscription to collect the camera
2. A TV channel that would connect to the camera (video call)
3. Technicians would help to set up the webcam
4. Must be easy to use
5. Provide a link/code for relatives to “enter the video chat”
6. With limited time span (do not abuse the system for free calling)
Criteria #3: Impact
The impact of this idea aims to allow seniors to communicate with their families and friends by communicating through the tv webcam. Not all elderly are equipped with smartphones. With this system, we can gather seniors together despite staying home.
Criteria #4: Timeliness
Upon approval > Design development (4 weeks) > Prototype (4 weeks) — Product Test (4 weeks) > Mass production (8 weeks) > Distribution (12 weeks)
Criteria #5: Systems Thinking
Loved ones, elderly care centers, hospitals/clinics can be possible for future stakeholders for this system. This system aims to create an ecosystem where the elderly can communicate with their loved ones during this isolation period.
Entertainment and leisure related companies can be included to create an entire ecosystem to benefit senior users.