Active3: Empowering active ageing for a healthier future
A collaborative project with regional partners focused on developing a range of materials aimed at engaging and enhancing the user experience.
About the project
The contribution of the TEDH group to the Active3 project focuses on active ageing and telemedicine. We developed an innovative application to promote a healthy lifestyle, encouraging physical activity, proper nutrition, and social interaction. Through this tool, we aim to support active ageing and improve well-being using modern technologies. This project was carried out within the TEDH research group, which is dedicated to health and well-being and is part of the Politecnico di Milano.
Mission
Promote active and healthy aging through innovative technologies, providing tools that support the physical, mental, and social well-being of older adults, improving quality of life, and encouraging independence and social interaction.
Challenges
One of the main challenges of the Active3 project was developing an application tailored for older adults, many of whom are not accustomed to using smartphones in depth. This required designing an interface that is not only user-friendly but also intuitive and engaging for a demographic that may be unfamiliar with modern technology.
Another significant challenge was encouraging behavioral change. Older adults often have established routines and may be resistant to adopting new habits, especially those related to physical activity, nutrition, and social engagement. The application had to be not only functional but also motivating, with features that would keep users engaged and motivated to make lasting changes to their daily lives.
The project also needed to address accessibility concerns, ensuring that the app could be used comfortably by people with visual, or cognitive impairments, which are common among the elderly.
Research
At the TEDH research group, we consider the initial phase of the project to be crucial for its success. In this phase, conducting thorough field research is essential to understanding the needs of the target audience and identifying development opportunities. To ensure the most accurate and insightful results, we collaborated with various organizations, including ATS Brianza, who played a key role in recruiting volunteers and identifying walking groups to be involved in the project. Their involvement allowed us to better connect with the community and gather valuable data, ensuring that the design and functionality of the application would be tailored to the real-life needs of older adults.
Identity System
The Active3 identity system establishes a unified visual language, incorporating elements like logo, typography, and colors to communicate the brand’s focus on health, vitality, and inclusivity.
The Logo
The first step of the project involved designing a distinctive logo for the app and its presence in the app store.
As the app focuses on active aging through walking and doubles as a fitness app, the design needed to express concepts like energy, movement, and dynamism.
Colors & Fonts
The color palette was chosen after a thorough benchmarking process. Green was selected to represent nature, while light blue reflected the medical field, creating a modern and dynamic aesthetic. Additionally, orange was introduced to “warm up” the interface, complementing the cool, vibrant tones and creating a more welcoming and engaging user experience.
The choice of fonts balances playfulness and professionalism, giving the app a credible yet approachable look that stands out from traditional medical interfaces.
Digital Products
The digital products of Active3 are unified by a simple interface and a consistent UI design, providing a seamless and intuitive user experience.
The APP
Active3 is the centerpiece of our work, designed to guide users toward a healthier and more active lifestyle. The app integrates the three pillars of active aging: movement, nutrition, and social connection. By addressing these key aspects, Active3 offers a comprehensive approach to well-being, encouraging users to embrace positive habits that enhance both their physical and mental health. It’s more than just an app—it’s a powerful tool for personal growth and long-term vitality.
The Website
Initially, the website was created to gather volunteer sign-ups for those interested in joining the program. Once we reached the target of 250 volunteers needed for the trial phase, no further volunteers were recruited. Over time, the website evolved into a showcase site, now serving as the primary platform for presenting essential information about Active3.
User Experience
Given the age range of our users (65–85 years), simplicity and clarity were our top priorities when designing the interface. We focused on creating a clean, straightforward layout that allows users to navigate the app effortlessly. Key functions are easily accessible with the fewest possible clicks, ensuring an intuitive and frustration-free experience.
Graphic Collateral
To complete the project and ensure a seamless user experience, various graphical materials were created, including both promotional and informational products.
Promotional Materials
During the volunteer recruitment phase, posters were created to spark curiosity among potential participants and their relatives, directly connecting them with the organization responsible for the recruitment. Flyers were also designed to provide users with the opportunity to take home important information. All of these materials were strategically placed in high-traffic locations, such as pharmacies and hospitals, to maximize visibility and engagement.
Informational Materials
The informational materials were created and distributed to users to allow them to take home essential details, such as appointments with doctors who would oversee various tests during the year-long trial phase. All materials followed the same design system to ensure consistency and strengthen the connection between the project and the information provided.