2026 · Hardware UX · Voice UI · AI
Memory Cassette: Tangible Storytelling for Dementia Patients
Bridging the gap between cognitive decline and identity. A screen-free device that empowers dementia patients to record and cherish their life stories.
Challenge
We noticed that for many elders, especially those navigating the early stages of dementia, being housebound leads to a slow fading of personal narratives. Our challenge was to design a lighthearted recreational gadget that transforms remembering from a passive chore into an engaging active ritual.
Role
Collaborative team project. Hardware and Software Lead and UX designer.
Outcome
A working physical prototype: a cassette-loaded device where an LLM-driven interviewer gently prompts the user, stitching their responses into a lasting audio story.
Context
We wanted to celebrate the joy that elders naturally find in sharing their history. Instead of approaching this as a clinical need, we saw it as a recreational opportunity. We wanted to move away from the frustration of digital interfaces to create something that feels like a classic piece of audio equipment. Something that sparks a smile and invites you to play.
The Shift
We spent time playing with different tactile form factors, testing out old-school radio dials and the satisfying thunk of a vinyl player, before ultimately opting for the cassette format. We chose the cassette because it offers a perfect balance: the intimacy of audio storytelling paired with the fun physical ritual of inserting a tape and looking at a cover image. We pivoted away from technical manuals and complex software toward a human-centric hobby.
Outcome
The solution validates the storyteller’s life through empathy and fun. By setting the focus to a tangible warm object, the device proves that keeping a legacy alive can be an inclusive and enjoyable part of daily life for anyone.