Smart Wave – Intelligent meal preparation system to help older people live independently

Abstract

Abstract. As we age, simple everyday tasks become difficult to perform. Sim-ply enjoying a hot nutritious meal may be difficult because of the natural im-pairments and declines in health conditions. The numerous steps required in preparing a meal and operating a microwave oven can become overwhelming due to visual, hearing, cognitive and/or neuro-motor declines. In this paper we discuss the SmartWave system, a pervasive microwave based cooking system which makes it easier for elderly people to enjoy a hot meal without having to read cooking instructions or interact with the microwave buttons. Additionally, SmartWave provides memory and coordination assistance to aid elderly with minor cognitive impairment. We describe the design and implementation of SmartWave, and discuss its integration with a smart home environment. We also describe a sample usage scenario and present the results of a study that we conducted to explore the elders ’ views on the usability of SmartWave. 1