meelo
ABS Plastic | Solo Cooperation Project | 2025/26
Dementia is one of the fastest growing global health challenges, that places significant financial and structural strain on healthcare systems. Furthermore, people living with dementia often face stigma, shame, social isolation and a loss of autonomy. Many experience frustration and confusion from complex technologies that are not designed for their needs. At the same time, family caregivers are emotionally and physically overburdened, while professional caregivers often lack time and access to personal biographical knowledge for person-centered care. meelo is an interactive activation system designed by the startup meelo in close exchange with and for people with dementia.
The meelo-box was co-designed with its target group and resembles old radios because they were familiar with them most of their lifes.
The final design references the visual language of mid-century radios, translating them into a reduced, contemporary product.
Its compact, cubic form with softened edges conveys safety and stability, while the top-facing placement area enables an intuitive lift-and-place gesture that accommodates reduced fine motor skills.
Family members or caregivers use the AI-supported app to select life themes, upload photos and answer guided biographical questions. The app generates short personal audio stories, which can be recorded in their own voice and enriched with music and sounds. UX/UI design by Magali Gröter
The content is linked to a physical meelo-Token. When the token is placed on the box, the sound immediately plays, bringing the memory to life.
Different surface textures add sensory variation and make them also accessible for visually impaired people. Their compact size makes them easy to hold, stack and store.
The meelo system uses a screw-assembled modular design for easy repair, refurbishment and material-specific recycling at end of life. The Digital Product Passport gives each meelo box a QR-based identity, making its full lifecycle transparent.
The modularity of meelo ensures that the system can grow with the needs of the user. Additional modules like a screen attachment, storage unit, light or scent can be docked via pogo pins when appropriate. Modularity also supports scalability, repairability and future updates without replacing the entire product.
