Service Designer, Product Designer
Python, Arduino & Electronics, 3D Printing, Figma, Textiles
6 months - 2024
Solo Project - Masters Thesis
29% of the US population serves as informal caregivers, providing unpaid care for family members. With an aging population, caregiver burnout is accelerating, leading to depression, isolation, and deteriorating health among caregivers themselves. This begs the question: who is caring for those always caring for others?
Mapped caregiver touchpoints across healthcare and social systems through 15 interviews, 4 co-design sessions, and literature synthesis—identifying when support breaks down and burnout manifests. Iteratively experimented with 3D printing, laser cutting, and electronics to prototype and refine solutions alongside participants throughout the process.
Built a bidirectional ambient support system to foster emotional connection between caregivers and support systems. Developed future state caregiver journey map to reimagine how support systems could foster proactive guardrails to reduce caregiver burnout. User testing suggested 30% improvement in perceived social support.
