Technology That Feels Natural: Designing Tools To Support People With Memory Loss
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By Tyler Zanini, Co-founder at Memoryboard
Tyler started Memoryboard to provide a simple and effective solution for families like his who want to help their loved ones with memory loss stay connected. Check out Memoryboard, or contact Tyler via email.
When someone you love begins to experience memory loss, daily life shifts in countless small ways. Things that were simple before, like keeping track of the day, remembering plans, or staying in touch with family, can become a source of anxiety and frustration.
My family saw this firsthand when my grandmother was diagnosed with vascular dementia. Over time, it became harder to check in, keep in touch, and feel a sense of connection. As someone who wanted to do something about it, I came to find that most technology isn’t designed for people with dementia.
For people who have been caregivers for a long time and give their careers supporting those with memory loss, dementia, and Alzheimer’s, I realize I am very likely stating the obvious. But, for myself, I grew up alongside the rapid evolution of consumer technology and have worked at technology companies for over a decade. I was surprised to discover the gap that existed when I began exploring what might be available for consumer technology for older adults.
We tried all the usual tools: calendars, sticky notes, smart speakers, and daily phone calls. But nothing stuck. Every option either placed too much responsibility on her or wasn’t designed with memory loss in mind. We realized we didn’t need more features. We needed clarity, reliability, and a sense of reassurance.
That’s when we started building Memoryboard, a simple digital display and app for family members and caregivers to send messages and tagged photos throughout the day. We designed it specifically for individuals living with dementia. And just as importantly, for the families who support them.
But this post isn’t about Memoryboard. It’s about a question we started asking early on:
What does supportive technology look like for someone with memory loss and the people who care for them?
Here are a few guiding principles that have emerged, lessons I believe are essential for anyone designing or choosing tools for seniors, particularly those living with dementia.
Remove the burden of interaction
Remove the burden of interactionOne of the most powerful things you can do is eliminate the need for the person with memory loss to operate or manage a device. If a screen requires tapping, pressing a button, or navigating a menu, it risks becoming a source of frustration or abandonment. My family experienced this firsthand when we tried to set up a video calling system with my grandmother.
We found that simply having a display that just works, automatically turning on and off, and showing what matters, removed a significant barrier. When technology disappears into the background, it allows for a sense of peace of mind.
Do one thing well
Many consumer technologies aim to be all-in-one solutions, such as your phone or tablet, which provide access to endless apps and the entire internet. But when it comes to memory loss, simplicity beats complexity.
We focused on one core need: helping families communicate clearly and consistently throughout the day. That single purpose enabled a more straightforward interface, reduced confusion, and had a more meaningful impact.
Enable remote support
Enable remote supportAs more families are spread across cities and time zones, caregiving has become a distributed effort. For technology to be effective, it must empower family members to support loved ones from anywhere, whether that’s sending a gentle reminder, updating a schedule, or simply saying, “I love you.”
Remote control and easy access are what turn static tools into dynamic sources of comfort.
Build for rhythm, not reaction
Build for rhythm, not reactionWe often think of reminders as one-time alerts. However, for people with dementia, what is needed is a daily rhythm of reassurance, recurring messages that gently orient, calm, and connect.
We’ve seen caregivers send simple notes each morning like:
- “It’s Tuesday. Exercise class at 11.”
- “Your daughter is coming to visit today.”
- “Thinking of you! ❤️ ”
These messages aren’t just logistical; they’re emotional lifelines that create continuity and reduce repeated confusion throughout the day.
Final Thoughts: Design With, Not Just For
Ultimately, the most important principle we have learned is to listen. Talk to caregivers. Sit with people experiencing memory loss. Understand their concerns, their routines, and their coping strategies. In building Memoryboard, we were able to visit people in assisted living communities, living at home, and in memory care. We appreciate them taking the time to share their personal experiences with us.
Technology for dementia care should never feel cold or complicated. It should feel like something soft and steady. Like a familiar voice at the right moment.
In other words, it should feel natural.
By Tyler Zanini, C0-founder of Memoryboard
Tyler Zanini is the co-founder of Memoryboard. With a background in healthcare innovation and entrepreneurship, Tyler created Memoryboard alongside his father-in-law, David, after their personal experiences caring for loved ones with memory loss. Together, they’re on a mission to help families and their loved ones stay connected. Check out Memoryboard, or contact Tyler via email.
