Inclusive communication of crisis information: An explorative study through participatory design with elderly
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Examensarbete för masterexamen
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Sammanfattning
With severe climate-related crises like flooding, storms, and wildfires increasing globally, authorities need to
ensure that information reaches and supports all members of society. However, there is a risk that elderly,
who might often have cognitive impairments, are excluded since channels for crisis information are largely
based on audio and image. Using an exploratory approach, this master thesis investigated how information
communicated to the elderly in future climate-related crises in Sweden can become more inclusive and create
a feeling of safety. Methods for engaging the elderly in participatory research when investigating future
scenarios and sensitive issues are explored and compared to reference literature and input from authorities.
The study identified (1) the elderly living alone in cities with few social contacts, (2) those with impairments
or (3) those who are less digital as groups as potentially critical user groups. To guide responsible authorities
to meet the needs of these groups, a combination of guidelines and concept proposals of possible future ways
of communication in crisis are suggested. The concepts proposed are an automatic voice SMS, an update of
the outdoor signal "Hesa Fredrik'' communicated with drones to reach residents in the countryside and
islands, and a chat group to support neighbourhood cooperation in crises. The concepts were described and
supported with additional information in an updated version of the brochure "If Crisis or War Comes". In
combination with the concepts, the guidelines can make crisis information more inclusive for all but need to
be further revised and tested before implementation. In addition, the study can be used as a reference for
future participatory research and investigation of methods to use when working with elderly on sensitive
issues. It also opens for further exploration of simulating more severe future crisis scenarios with participants.
Beskrivning
Ämne/nyckelord
Participatory design; Elderly; Seniors; Crisis information; Crisis communication; Climate-related crises; Design for Elderly; Design for all.