NavMem explorer: an orientation aid for people with mild cognitive impairments

Abstract

People with cognitive impairments frequently loose orientation when navigating outdoors. Existing navigation solutions provide an over-whelming amount of information and are unable to address the users' needs and desires. In this paper, we present our current status on the development of NavMem Explorer, an orientation aid for people with mild cognitive impairments (MCI). We summarize findings from initial user studies, illustrate the design rationales, give insights into our implementation, and outline planned studies. The key design concepts of our prototype are the decomposition of complex navigation tasks into less complex navigation tasks, the personalization of content, and the use of photographs whenever possible. Thereby, we rely on and strengthen users' existing knowledge and mental capabilities. We argue that the overall design allows users with MCI to accomplish navigation tasks without loosing orientation. Thus, people will be encouraged and supported to go out alone and actively participate in social life.