Easierphone: Partizipative Entwicklung einer seniorenfreundlichen Smartphone-Anwendung

 

Partner des Easierphone-Konsortiums, OST - Ostschweizer Fachhochschule gewann den Position Paper Award während der 9th International Conference on Information and Communication Technologies for Ageing Well and e-Health ICT4AWE! Lesen Sie die Zusammenfassung und erfahren Sie mehr über die Ergebnisse...

Altern und Digitalisierung sind zwei wichtige Entwicklungen des 21. Jahrhunderts. Insbesondere der Besitz von Smartphones ist weltweit auf über 80 % gestiegen. Mittlerweile erfreuen sich Smartphones auch bei älteren Menschen großer Beliebtheit, dennoch zeigen viele noch Berührungsängste. Das multinationale Projekt Easierphone zielt darauf ab, ältere Erwachsene und andere schutzbedürftige Personen in die Lage zu versetzen, Smartphones effektiv zu nutzen.

Die seniorenfreundliche App Easierphone vereinfacht Smartphones und ersetzt die übliche Android-Oberfläche durch eine benutzerfreundlichere. Darüber hinaus können mit der Easierphone-App zwei Smartphones aus der Ferne verbunden werden, um virtuelle Hilfe zu leisten. In einem partizipativen Design werden Tests mit älteren Erwachsenen in drei verschiedenen Pilotprojekten in drei verschiedenen Ländern durchgeführt. Zur Datenerhebung werden halbstrukturierte Interviews, das Ausprobieren der App, individuelle Folgegespräche und Co-Creation-Workshops durchgeführt.

Die bisherige Easierphone-App wird von potenziellen Endnutzern positiv aufgenommen. Viele der verschiedenen Die Funktionalitäten der App konnten durch das Feedback der Testteilnehmer verbessert werden. Der Entwicklungsprozess ist ein iterativer Prozess, der zwischen den einzelnen Pilotprojekten stattfindet, um die bestmöglichen Anpassungen der App zu erreichen. Die vorläufigen Ergebnisse deuten darauf hin, dass die Berührungsängste noch immer vorherrschen. Die vereinfachte Schnittstelle scheint eine Grundlage dafür zu sein, dass ältere Erwachsene ihr Smartphone mit mehr Selbstvertrauen nutzen können.

 

 


Zweites Easierphone-Pilotprojekt gestartet

Easierphone wird an 3 Pilotstandorten in den Niederlanden, der Schweiz und Polen getestet. Die Nutzer können die Easierphone-Apps mit Hilfe von Easierphone-Vertretern auf ihren Smartphones installieren und testen und alle angebotenen Funktionen überprüfen. Nach der erfolgreichen ersten Phase wurde die zweite Phase in den Niederlanden, in der Internos-Einrichtung, eingeleitet.

In dieser zweiten Testphase geht es hauptsächlich um die Fernunterstützung. Der Nutzer der Easierphone-App kann aus der Ferne von einem Familienmitglied oder einer Betreuungsperson unterstützt werden, die ebenfalls die Apps installiert hat, um die Person zu unterstützen, die Hilfe beim Telefonieren benötigt. Das Modul "Activity Trends" (KI-basierte Überwachung von Aktivität und Wohlbefinden des Nutzers) spielt ebenfalls eine große Rolle. Der Assistent kann sehen, ob der Mentee tagsüber aktiv ist oder "von der Bildfläche verschwunden" ist. Der Standort der Versuchsperson kann auch aus der Ferne eingesehen werden, was im Falle einer Notsituation oder eines abschweifenden Verhaltens, z. B. im Frühstadium einer Demenz, hilfreich ist.

Unseren Testpersonen wurde erklärt, wie man die App installiert und wie man mit ihr weiter arbeitet. Da sie das Android-Smartphone mitgebracht hatten, konnte die Theorie sofort in die Praxis umgesetzt werden. In einigen Wochen werden wir ein Feedback darüber einholen, wie unsere Testpersonen die Assistenten-App erlebt haben.

 

Haben Sie Fragen zur App? Zögern Sie nicht, uns zu kontaktieren:

📨contact@easierphone.com

 

 


Aufschlussreiches Feedback zu den Bedürfnissen und Anliegen älterer Smartphone-Nutzer während eines Co-Creation-Workshops in Zürich

Die dritte Co-Creation Session wurde von IAF in Zürich organisiert. Während des Workshops wurden eine Reihe von neuen Eindrücken und Kommentaren geliefert, die darauf abzielten, Verbesserungen an der Easierphone-App vorzunehmen. Sie brachte auch eine neue Perspektive auf die Bedürfnisse erwachsener Nutzer bei der Verwendung von Smartphones.

Das IAF-Team versammelte eine Gruppe von Senioren, um alle Easierphone-Module zu testen und eingehende Fragen zu allgemeinen Eindrücken, Bedenken und spezifischen Situationen, in denen die Module nützlich sein könnten, zu stellen sowie viele Fragen zu beantworten, insbesondere in Bezug auf Datenschutz und Sicherheitsfaktoren.

Die Teilnehmer waren neugierig darauf, wie das Modul zur Bewegungsverfolgung funktioniert und welche Art von Informationen dem Pflegepersonal zur Verfügung stehen werden. Wichtig ist, dass Easierphone sich als nützlich für Demenzkranke erwiesen hat. Ein Ortungsmodul mit Fernunterstützung kann bei der Verfolgung einer verloren gegangenen Person helfen. Sie kann auch durch die "Notfall"-Taste unterstützt werden, um die zuständige Person sofort zu informieren, wenn eine gefährliche Situation eintritt und sofortige Hilfe durch die Hilfsperson benötigt wird.

Die Teilnehmer der Sitzung sprachen auch die Frage des Zugriffs auf personenbezogene Daten durch die Person an, die den älteren Nutzer aus der Ferne unterstützen wird. Es ist wichtig zu erwähnen, dass die Einverständniserklärung klar formuliert wird, um zu vermeiden, dass der Nutzer nicht weiß, zu welchen Daten der Assistent Zugang hat.

Insgesamt wurden die Easierphone-Apps als ein notwendiges Hilfsmittel für ältere Menschen positiv bewertet. Die Sicherheit der persönlichen Daten und die Sicherheit im täglichen Gebrauch waren die wichtigsten Themen für die ersten Nutzer von IAF. Das Team von Easierphone wird vor der Markteinführung besonders auf diese Aspekte der Lösung achten.

Möchten Sie die App testen und zu den Early Adopters gehören? Kontaktieren Sie uns:

Android - Easierphone


"Easierphone, nicht nur für Senioren" - Feedback von Teilnehmern des EWAHA 2022

Das Team von Easierphone verbrachte drei Tage (18.-20.10.22) in Danzig auf der Konferenz European Week of Active & Healthy Aging. Es war die letzte Veranstaltung im Rahmen des AAL-Programms, die EU-finanzierte Projekte an einem Ort versammelte, um Wissen auszutauschen und Innovationen auf allen Ebenen im Bereich des aktiven und gesunden Alterns zu präsentieren.

Die Easierphone-Apps für das Android-Betriebssystem wurden während der Veranstaltung von den Konsortialpartnern (Pappy, Internos, ASM und The Institute for Aging Research) am Stand präsentiert und mit potenziellen Geschäftspartnern und Interessengruppen diskutiert. Die entscheidenden Merkmale wurden auch bei der Posterpräsentation am ersten Tag der Veranstaltung hervorgehoben.

Wichtiges Feedback zu Easierphone-Anwendungen für Senioren

Der Hauptzweck der Teilnahme von Easierphone an der Konferenz bestand darin, potenzielle Nutzer der App zu treffen. Jeder Besucher des Standes konnte alle Funktionen der Apps testen, das Aussehen der Benutzeroberfläche bewerten und Kommentare abgeben. Das wichtigste Feedback war, dass die App nicht nur für ältere Menschen nützlich ist, sondern für jeden, der die Nutzung seines Smartphones erleichtern, seine Aktivitäten während des Tages im Auge behalten und einen Assistenten für die Verwaltung seines Telefons nutzen möchte.

Um unsere Teilnahme an der EWAHA 2022 zu verfolgen, sehen Sie sich das folgende kurze Video an:

Das Programm AAL (Active Assisted Living) zielt darauf ab, eine bessere Lebensqualität für ältere Menschen zu schaffen und die industriellen Möglichkeiten im Bereich der Technologie und Innovation für gesundes Altern zu stärken. Das Easierphone-Projekt (AAL/Call2020) wird durch das AAL-Programm finanziert, das von der Europäischen Kommission und den nationalen Förderbehörden der Schweiz, der Niederlande und Polens kofinanziert wird.


Co-Creation-Workshop - Diskussion über neue Funktionen

Internos entwickelt und testet zusammen mit Partnern eine Anwendung, die die Nutzung von Smartphones vereinfacht. Wer hat nicht schon einmal lange nach der einen App auf seinem Smartphone gesucht, die irgendwo zwischen all den anderen Dutzenden liegt? Easierphone vereinfacht den Startbildschirm und listet die am häufigsten genutzten Apps auf einfache Weise auf. Es wird auch eine Assistentenfunktion entwickelt, so dass eine andere Person (Partner/Pflegeperson) dem Benutzer nach Genehmigung bei der Einrichtung und Anpassung dieses vereinfachten Startbildschirms helfen kann.

Kürzlich organisierte Internos einen Workshop mit Mitgliedern des Kundenbeirats, um ein Brainstorming über zusätzliche Funktionen von Easierphone durchzuführen. Beim nächsten Test werden drei neue Module hinzukommen:

  1. Gemeinsam gehen; hier können Sie sich mit anderen zum Gehen verabreden und die Anzahl der zurückgelegten Schritte vergleichen
  2. One-Touch-Anruf; ermöglicht den sofortigen Kontakt mit vorher ausgewählten Personen
  3. Trends in der Aktivität; Betrachtung der Entwicklung des Grades der Nutzung des Telefons und der Bewegung außerhalb des Hauses

Es war eine lebhafte Diskussion mit guten Tipps der Internos-Kundenvorstandsmitglieder für die Entwickler von Easierphone. Eine der wichtigsten Erkenntnisse war, dass das Verfolgen und Überwachen eines Nutzers manchmal als nützlich angesehen wird, aber nicht immer. Wenn es jedoch darum geht, hilfsbedürftige Menschen mit Easierphone zu unterstützen, kann es für den Assistenten nützlich sein, zu sehen, wie sich das Aktivitätsmuster eines Benutzers entwickelt. Wenn jemand zum Beispiel regelmäßig umherwandert oder eine stark verminderte Aktivität zeigt, kann dies ein Signal für den Assistenten sein, einzugreifen.


One Button to Alert Family in Case of Emergency: Introducing the Life-Saving Features of Easierphone

In critical situations, every second counts, especially for seniors who may require immediate assistance. Easierphone, the innovative app designed specifically for the elderly, introduces a groundbreaking feature to ensure their safety and provide peace of mind to both users and their families. With just one button, Easierphone enables users to alert their emergency contacts instantly.

In this article, we'll explore the life-saving functionalities of Easierphone, including emergency calls, simultaneous emergency SMS alerts, and a countdown for cancellation. Let's dive in and discover how Easierphone is transforming emergency response for seniors.

 

One Button for Instant Emergency Alerts

Easierphone simplifies the process of calling for help during emergencies. By pressing a single button, users can initiate a series of actions that swiftly notify their emergency contacts and provide vital information.

Emergency Call

When the emergency button is activated, Easierphone immediately makes a call to the first emergency contact designated by the user. This direct call ensures prompt communication with a trusted individual who can assess the situation and provide assistance.

Simultaneous Emergency SMS

In addition to the emergency call, Easierphone sends simultaneous SMS messages to all emergency contacts. These messages include crucial details such as the user's location, the time of the emergency, and the contact called during the emergency. This comprehensive SMS feature ensures that all designated contacts receive urgent notifications, enabling a rapid response.

Countdown for Cancellation

Easierphone understands that emergencies can sometimes be mistaken or resolved quickly. To address this, the app incorporates a countdown feature, allowing users to cancel the emergency call within 10 seconds of activation.

Flexibility and Control

The countdown feature gives users the flexibility to assess the situation and determine whether an emergency call is necessary. If the user realizes that assistance is not required or if the situation is resolved, they can cancel the emergency call within the specified timeframe.

Preventing False Alarms

By providing a window for cancellation, Easierphone minimizes the chances of false alarms, ensuring that emergency contacts are notified only when genuinely needed. This feature prevents unnecessary panic or inconvenience for both users and their emergency contacts.

Setting Up Emergency Contacts

When installing Easierphone, users have the option to set up their emergency contacts, who will be notified in case of an emergency. It is vital to ensure that the designated emergency contacts are trusted individuals who can respond quickly and appropriately.

Default SMS Application for Emergency SMS

To enable the emergency SMS feature, users need to set Easierphone as their default SMS application. This step ensures that emergency messages containing important details are sent seamlessly to all designated emergency contacts.

Easierphone's one-button emergency alert system is revolutionizing the way seniors can seek help during critical situations. With its immediate emergency call function, simultaneous emergency SMS alerts, and cancellation countdown, Easierphone provides a comprehensive safety net for elderly individuals. By simplifying the process of alerting emergency contacts and sending vital information, Easierphone ensures swift response and assistance in times of need. Remember, it's essential to set up and regularly update your emergency contacts within Easierphone to ensure accurate and reliable notifications. Additionally, don't forget to set Easierphone as your default SMS application to enable the emergency SMS feature for seamless communication during emergencies.


Streamlining Seniors' Smartphone Experience: A Closer Look at the Easierphone App's Home Screen

Easierphone, the user-friendly app designed with seniors in mind, revolutionizes the smartphone experience by simplifying navigation and customization. One of its standout features is the intuitive home screen, offering easy access to essential functions and personalized app management.

In this article, we'll explore the functionalities of the Easierphone app's home screen, including setting it as the default home app, adding apps, and customizing the display. Let's delve into how Easierphone streamlines the smartphone experience for seniors.

Setting Easierphone as the Default Home App

To maximize convenience and ease of use, Easierphone allows users to set it as their default home app. By accessing the settings menu through the wrench icon in the top left corner, users can choose Easierphone as the default home app. Once this setting is enabled, pressing the home button on the device will bring up the Easierphone home screen instantly. It provides a seamless experience tailored specifically for seniors.

Initial Setup and Access Permissions

After installing Easierphone, it is crucial to ensure that all modules are opened at least once and grant the necessary access permissions. These steps are essential for the app to function correctly and deliver the intended user experience. By opening each Easierphone module and allowing access permissions, users can enjoy the full range of features without any disruptions.

Adding Apps to the Home Screen

Easierphone empowers users to customize their home screen by adding their preferred apps. To add an app, users can simply scroll down on the home screen and locate the violet "add app" button at the bottom. Tapping this button brings up a menu displaying available apps, allowing users to select and add their desired applications to the home screen. This feature enables quick access to frequently used apps, tailored to individual preferences.

Customizing the Home Screen

Easierphone understands that personalization is key to a user-friendly experience. Users have the option to customize their home screen by accessing the settings menu through the wrench symbol in the top left corner. From there, selecting "Edit home screen" allows users to adjust the display order and remove apps from the home screen. This level of customization ensures that the home screen only showcases the apps that users find most relevant and useful.

The home screen of the Easierphone app is a gateway to a simplified and personalized smartphone experience for seniors. By setting Easierphone as the default home app, users can access its user-friendly interface with a single tap of the home button. The app's home screen allows for easy app management, enabling users to add their preferred apps and arrange them according to their needs. With the ability to customize the display, users can create a streamlined interface tailored to their preferences.

Easierphone's commitment to user convenience and simplicity shines through its thoughtfully designed home screen. By putting control in the hands of seniors, the app empowers them to navigate their smartphones effortlessly, enhancing their digital independence and enjoyment. Embrace the power of the Easierphone app's home screen and embark on a user-friendly smartphone journey catered to the needs of older adults.


Easierphone Activity Trends: Empowering Seniors to Track and Improve Well-being

Easierphone, the user-friendly app designed to enhance the smartphone experience for seniors, introduces an insightful feature called Activity Trends. This innovative app monitors smartphone usage, physical activities, and mobility data, providing users with valuable insights into their daily routines. By observing their own activities and tracking changes over time, seniors can gain a better understanding of their well-being.

The Easierphone Activity Trends app incorporates algorithms that analyze usage patterns and provide personalized recommendations to senior users or their trusted assistants. In this article, we'll explore the functionalities of the Easierphone Activity Trends app and how it empowers seniors to improve their overall health and well-being.

Monitoring Smartphone Usage, Physical Activities, and Mobility Data

Easierphone Activity Trends offers a comprehensive overview of seniors' daily activities, including their smartphone usage, physical activities, and mobility data. By tracking these parameters, users can gain insights into their habits, routines, and overall lifestyle.

Smartphone Usage

The app records the duration and frequency of smartphone usage, allowing users to observe their screen time and understand their digital habits. This information is valuable in identifying patterns and managing smartphone usage for a healthy balance between digital engagement and offline activities.

Physical Activities

Easierphone Activity Trends tracks physical activities such as steps taken, distance traveled, and active minutes throughout the day. This data provides seniors with a clear picture of their activity levels and encourages them to engage in regular physical exercise for improved fitness and well-being.

Mobility Data

The app also monitors mobility data, capturing information on movements, such as walking and traveling. This feature enables users to observe their mobility patterns and identify any changes or trends over time.

Observing Personal Activities and Tracking Changes

Easierphone Activity Trends empowers seniors to observe their personal activities and track changes over time. By visualizing their activity trends, users can gain valuable insights into their routines and identify areas for improvement. This self-awareness plays a crucial role in promoting healthy behaviors and maintaining an active lifestyle.

Improving Health and Well-being with Easierphone Activity Trends

Easierphone Activity Trends serves as a powerful tool for seniors to improve their overall health and well-being. By actively monitoring their smartphone usage, physical activities, and mobility data, seniors can make informed choices to enhance their lifestyle. The AI-driven recommendations further amplify the app's impact, ensuring personalized guidance and support in achieving wellness goals.

Easierphone Activity Trends offers seniors a holistic view of their activities, allowing them to observe their smartphone usage, physical activities, and mobility data. By tracking and analyzing these parameters, seniors can gain valuable insights into their well-being and make informed decisions to improve their health. The AI-driven recommendations serve as a personalized guide, further enhancing the app's effectiveness in promoting an active and balanced lifestyle.

Embrace the power of the Easierphone Activity Trends app and embark on a journey of self-improvement. Empower yourself with knowledge, make positive changes, and lead a healthier and more fulfilling life. With Easierphone, your well-being is in your hands.


How walking improves brain function?

Walking has been shown to have numerous benefits for brain function and cognitive health. Here are some ways in which walking can improve brain function.

 

  • Increased Blood Flow: Walking increases blood flow throughout the body, including the brain. This enhanced blood circulation delivers essential oxygen and nutrients to brain cells, promoting their optimal function.
  • Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF): Walking stimulates the production of a protein called BDNF, which plays a crucial role in promoting the growth and survival of brain cells. Higher levels of BDNF are associated with improved cognitive function and enhanced memory.
  • Neuroplasticity: Walking promotes neuroplasticity, the brain's ability to reorganize and form new connections between neurons. It enhances the brain's adaptability and ability to learn and retain information.
  • Improved Mood and Stress Reduction: Walking releases endorphins, natural mood-enhancing chemicals in the brain. It can reduce stress and anxiety, contributing to a more positive mental state and improved cognitive function.
  • Enhanced Memory and Cognitive Function: Regular walking has been linked to improved memory and cognitive function, including attention, concentration, and problem-solving abilities. It can also slow down age-related cognitive decline and reduce the risk of developing conditions such as dementia and Alzheimer's disease.
  • Reduced Inflammation: Walking has anti-inflammatory effects on the body, including the brain. Chronic inflammation is associated with cognitive decline and an increased risk of neurodegenerative disorders. Regular walking can help reduce inflammation, supporting brain health.
  • Increased Neurotransmitters: Walking increases the release of neurotransmitters such as dopamine and serotonin, which play vital roles in regulating mood, motivation, and cognitive function. Adequate levels of these neurotransmitters are essential for optimal brain function.

 

 

  • Improved Sleep Quality: Walking can contribute to better sleep quality, which is crucial for brain health and cognitive function. Quality sleep allows the brain to consolidate memories, process information, and restore energy levels.
  • Enhanced Brain Connectivity: Walking has been found to improve brain connectivity, particularly in regions involved in memory and cognition. Increased connectivity between brain regions enhances communication and coordination, leading to improved overall brain function.
  • Stress Reduction and Brain Health: Regular walking can help reduce chronic stress, a condition that can negatively impact brain health and cognitive function. By managing stress levels, walking supports optimal brain function and overall well-being.

To reap the benefits of walking for brain function, aim for regular physical activity, such as brisk walking, for at least 150 minutes per week. Remember to start gradually and choose a pace and duration that suits your fitness level. Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting any exercise program, especially if you have any underlying health conditions.

 


10 steps on how to recover after a stroke. Guidelines for elderly people

Recovering from a stroke and regaining fitness can be a challenging journey, especially for elderly individuals. However, with the right approach and guidance, it is possible to improve physical fitness and regain independence. Here are some guidelines to help elderly individuals get back to fitness after a stroke.

Consult with Healthcare Professionals: Before starting any fitness program, it is crucial to consult with healthcare professionals, including physicians, physiotherapists, and occupational therapists. They can assess the individual's condition, provide specific recommendations, and tailor a plan based on their abilities and limitations.

Start Slowly and Gradually Increase Intensity: Begin with gentle exercises and activities that are appropriate for the individual's current level of fitness. This may include stretching, range-of-motion exercises, and low-impact activities such as walking or swimming. Gradually increase the duration and intensity of exercises as tolerated.

Focus on Rehabilitation Exercises: Engage in targeted rehabilitation exercises prescribed by healthcare professionals. These exercises aim to improve strength, coordination, balance, and flexibility. They may include exercises for affected limbs, gait training, and functional movements tailored to the individual's needs.

Engage in Cardiovascular Exercises: Cardiovascular exercises improve cardiovascular fitness, endurance, and overall health. Depending on the individual's abilities, low-impact activities such as brisk walking, cycling on a stationary bike, or swimming can be beneficial. Start with shorter durations and gradually increase the time spent on these activities.

Emphasize Strength Training: Strengthening exercises help rebuild muscle strength and improve mobility. Focus on resistance exercises targeting major muscle groups, using light weights or resistance bands as appropriate. It is essential to maintain proper form and avoid straining muscles or joints.

Balance and Coordination Exercises: Balance and coordination exercises are crucial for preventing falls and improving stability. Incorporate exercises such as standing on one leg, heel-to-toe walking, and using balance boards or stability balls. Consider working with a physiotherapist or occupational therapist for guidance on specific exercises.

Consider Occupational Therapy: Occupational therapy focuses on regaining independence in daily activities. It can assist in relearning skills such as dressing, bathing, cooking, and mobility. An occupational therapist can provide guidance on adaptive strategies and recommend assistive devices if needed.

Stay Active Throughout the Day: Encourage regular physical activity and movement throughout the day. This can include simple activities like taking short walks, doing household chores, gardening, or practicing seated exercises if mobility is limited.

Listen to Your Body: It is essential to pay attention to any discomfort or fatigue during exercise. Rest when needed and gradually increase activity levels based on individual capabilities. Overexertion can be counterproductive and may lead to injury or setbacks in the recovery process.

Emotional Support: Stroke recovery can be emotionally challenging. Seek emotional support from family, friends, or support groups to cope with the psychological aspects of recovery. A positive and supportive environment can have a significant impact on motivation and overall well-being.

Remember, stroke recovery and regaining fitness after a stroke is a unique journey for each individual. Patience, perseverance, and consistent effort are key. Work closely with healthcare professionals, follow their recommendations, and celebrate small victories along the way. With determination and support, it is possible to regain fitness and improve the overall quality of life after a stroke.