Emily Casile
MyPhone is an android application designed to keep aging individuals connected in an increasingly digital world. MyPhone can be generalized to a variety of populations including individuals with cognitive impairments, decreased literacy, and individuals post neurological incidents (i.e. TBI, chronic stroke). The application simplifies digital communication tasks including calling and texting for up to nine pre-programmed contacts. After selecting a recipient by tapping on their photo, the user can call, send a novel text, or send a preset message. The app can also present and read aloud the last message the user has received from the recipient. Contact numbers and photos can be accessed in the app settings. The contact settings can be password protected to avoid accidental tampering from the user. MyPhone also has an emergency call button on the home page which calls the individual’s emergency contact or 911. MyPhone improves safety, promotes independence, and allows for increased social participation for a variety of individuals. Current communication options for this population are limited. Options for individuals with memory or cognitive impairments are frequently not portable or only allow the individual to video call. For individuals with age related visual decline most messaging apps on the market do not have high contrast backgrounds, or bolded text. These gaps in product availability can leave behind individuals who would like to engage but need additional support.
Emily Casile