Behaviour Change to Combat Comorbidity
People with comorbidities face significant challenges in adopting a physically active lifestyle due to the complexity of self-managing multiple conditions and the limitations these conditions impose on their daily lives. This increases their risk of cardiovascular disease. The pandemic further disrupted routines, social connections, and habits, leaving individuals in a state of flux and struggling to rebuild healthy habits.
Situation
Task
The objective of the project was to design a solution that could help individuals with comorbidities gradually incorporate physical activity into their daily lives. This solution needed to be flexible, accommodating varying levels of ability, and should also leverage social support systems to foster engagement, accountability, and motivation.
Action
Through system mapping and interviews, I identified key challenges and gaps in how people with comorbidities approach lifestyle changes. I then facilitated a series of research activities, including journey mapping, stakeholder mapping, and a co-design workshop, to gain deeper insights into users’ motivations, limitations, and preferences. This process helped in developing a system that offered individualized recommendations for nutrition and movement. The solution focused on building community through social connections, encouraging accountability, and supporting long-term behavior change through collaboration.
Result
The resulting system provided users with personalized recommendations, incorporating both individual needs and collective social support to foster consistent lifestyle changes. It successfully created an environment of community-driven health improvements, promoting accountability and motivating individuals to take proactive steps towards better health. Early feedback indicated increased engagement, social interaction, and motivation for healthier habits.
Client
Sunnybrook Hospital - Cardiology
Sector
Design Research, Healthcare
Responsibilities
Design Researcher
Project Duration
3 months
