The Problem
The project follows a user-centered research process, combining interviews, workshops, and observations to identify key needs. Insights from elderly care professionals, preschool staff, and movement experts shaped the final design, ensuring it is inclusive, functional, and engaging for all users.
The approch
Loneliness and social isolation are significant challenges for elderly individuals, According to WHO up to one-in-three seniors experience isolation, increasing risks of depression and cognitive decline. The National Institute of Aging (2016) links social isolation to heart disease and Alzheimer’s. At the same time, young children benefit from diverse social experiences but have limited opportunities to engage with older generations outside their families. Existing environments are often age-segregated, lacking spaces designed to encourage natural and meaningful intergenerational interactions.
Designing Shared Spaces for
Intergenerational Well-being
Spring 2024
Project info
10 weeks
Bachelor Thesis project
Umeå Institute of Design
Focus
Product design
Reserch
Workshop
Partner
Umeå kommun
In today’s society, generations are more disconnected than ever. Research shows that intergenerational interaction can improve well-being, motivation, and even cognitive function in the elderly while offering children valuable social learning experiences.
The Swedish TV4 experiment “Fyraåringarna på äldreboendet” (2020) showed that interaction with children improved seniors' memory, mobility, and mood. Despite these benefits, most public spaces remain age-segregated, limiting meaningful connections.
Scenario
Close up on water play area and modell in scale 1:20
The final design is a multifunctional outdoor space that brings together gardening, water play, and seating to encourage interaction between older adults and children. The garden enables planting and nurturing, promoting physical activity and a sense of accomplishment for seniors. Water elements engage children and create opportunities for shared play. The design is based on ergonomic principles and made with safe, durable materials accessible to all users.
Developed in collaboration with eldercare and preschool professionals, the concept draws from real-life intergenerational programs. It addresses the lack of spaces that support natural interactions across age groups and highlights the potential of design to foster inclusivity, reduce loneliness, and build stronger communities. By promoting shared goals and meaningful connections, the space enhances well-being for both generations.
The Result
How might we design environments and experiences that support elderly wellbeing while fostering meaningful connections between generations?
🌱
🤝
🫂
Back to the problem
Pinpointing necessities
Research summary based on conversations with professionals in elder and child health, caregivers, preschool teachers, parents, and seniors about their needs and wants.
Glimpses from UID design talks 24
Final words
This project has shown me how deeply design can influence human connection. Through research, interviews, and testing, I’ve seen firsthand how small changes in the environment can create big shifts in well-being. Bridging generations isn’t just about bringing people together, it’s about designing spaces that make those interactions natural, meaningful, and lasting. I hope this work inspires more inclusive design solutions that foster community,
joy, and a sense of belonging for all ages.
Feeling Needed & Seen
Feeling valued strengthens self-confidence, purpose, and wellbeing. Activities that avoid stereotypes and highlight individual contributions increase trust and motivation.
Accessibility
Removing physical barriers and ensuring inclusivity fosters independence, self-esteem, respect, and empathy, allowing everyone to feel welcome.
Safety & Voluntariness
A safe, respectful environment where participation is optional helps people feel comfortable. Especially important for children in family-like atmospheres.
Openness & Creativity
An open, welcoming atmosphere encourages creativity, exploration, and participation at one’s own level. Key for development and connection building.
Nature & Green Spaces
Spending time outdoors reduces stress, improves sleep and concentration, and supports both physical and mental health. Beneficial for all ages.
Designing pieces together
In a co-creation workshop, participants from different backgrounds, like caregiver or fellow designers, contributed ideas on post-its. Based on needs and wants pointed out during the research participants came up with solutions to each need. The collaborative format not only generated diverse concepts but also strengthened the sense of shared ownership in the design.
Putting pieces together
From the workshop I ideated on playful spaces and activities that could evoke the needs identified by participants in the research. During this process, I also re-engaged with interviewees to gather feedback, discussing the most engaging and meaningful outcomes. Making sure the concepts were designed to be suitable for both children and seniors.
Symbio
Close up on water play area. Inviting play, collaboration and mess
Examples of play in Symbio
Bench
Interactive watering
Crawl tunnel
Hanging rail/support
Space for gardening
Safe space for children
Creative surface