Company founder, CEO Matti Räty recalls how the idea of a Navigil safety wristwatch first got started as result of a close relative having a fall and breaking a hip. This proved to be a true blessing in disguise. There did not seem to be any acceptable tools for a person to call for help. Fortunately, all ended happily, because relatives went to see how the fallen person was doing two days earlier than scheduled. It was stressful that relatives were not able to monitor their loved one’s recovery between visits.

Obviously, there was a need for a new mobile wearable device that individuals would be happy to wear and that was supported by services that provided family and friends information about loved one’s wellness status. This happened in 2007 and at that time wearable telecare bracelets were ugly, stigmatizing and worked only at home in the range of a speakerphone.

Our principles of design

Especially female seniors are very particular about what they wear. Nobody wants to portray that they would have lost any aspect of their independence. Assisted living technology that stigmatizes wearers is seldom used by the individual. Ease of use and allowing for poor dexterity, vision and balance are just as critical for this group of users. We strongly believe that the user experience and technology of wellness watches should always focus on the core purpose of the product.  However, we understand that the user requirements must also be adjustable as they may change over time.

The caring community

The Navigil service design further considers the requirements of family members,  friends and professional carers.  Deep understanding of the needs of these stakeholders are manifested, for example, in the reliable sharing of help request call responsibilities and automatic alarm and wellness status notifications, which all help to build and strengthen peace of mind.

Understanding user needs

The Navigil wellness watch and service have been designed by carefully analyzing the user and stakeholder needs and requirements.  The fulfillment of these needs has then been successfully proven by comprehensive testing and piloting programs with elderly users, care homes and family representatives.  We are proud of what we have accomplished but humble enough to keep constantly analyzing the feedback from our customers to further improve and perfect the Navigil product and service.

Redesign the experience of aging

Life after 65 is not what it used to be. The realities for seniors look far richer than ever before. Older adults live longer and lead active lifestyles well into their 80’s or even further. Most importantly, we try to implement this into our design – how can we help seniors, through our design, to live a more independent, purposeful life and still being connected to their loved ones. Maybe there is not a need to decide if we all want a life full of years or years full of life. Now we can enjoy life both ways.