Health technology : design of bandage-sized wireless sensors and effect of ambient displays on social support and diabetes management

Abstract

Health-Zero refers to health technology design that focus on interaction with an individual as a whole to promote well-being. This thesis presents two explorations in the discipline. The first exploration involves the design of a wireless bandage-sized ECG sensor to create a personal and interpersonal network of health sensors. The second exploration designs and evaluates an ambient blood glucose level visualization and feedback system for diabetes self-care and social support, where the latter is provided by a friend or family member of an individual with diabetes. This thesis provides insight into using technology to enable an individual to leverage his environment and inter-personal relationships for self-care and prevention.