The Homing Compasss, or in Dutch “welthuis kompas” is a concept developed to provide navigation support for people living with dementia. The compass is an easy to use navigation system with one simple functionality: It always points home.
When designing for people with dementia, it is important to keep technology simple. In this concept, simple pertains to no interaction needed resulting in a low-learning curve. The physical arrow contributes to this usability as well, by being clearly visible and not showed on a screen. The design’s look and feel resembles a compass aesthetically by using familiar materials such as wood and metal. This reminiscence to compass usage, conveys the functionality on a subconscious level. The homing compass is developed in co-creation with people living with dementia, family members and caregivers. Through several workshop sessions, people with dementia were involved to provide feedback and steer the design process to this end-result.
Researcher

Rens Brankaert
Publications
Brankaert, R., & Suijkerbuijk, S. (2019). Outdoor life and technology with dementia. In A. Astell, S. Smith, & P. Joddrell (Eds.), Using technology in dementia care: a guide to technology solutions for everyday living (pp. 53-64). Jessica Kingsley Publishers.