https://www.figma.com/board/NMqZgv0Pr2BktuXCDKTi4A/UXD-501?node-id=0-1&t=MYWkbeQKCinzSc8X-1

While I was researching into my problem, I came across a number of case studies and statistics on people living with MND, as well as their carers. This gave me a better understanding of who my users will be, before carrying out more specific user centred research.

To narrow down my focus, I decided to specifically look at people living in NI with MND. As through my research, there seemed to be a real concern when it came to NI, and the support available to the people affected by MND.

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For people living with MND in NI, there is a lack of support and resources. This results in feelings of isolation, loneliness and abandonment. The MNDA, is the only national charity in England, Wales and Northern Ireland focused on MND care, research and campaigning. From their experience, most people living with MND want to have their care needs met in their own home for as long as possible. This gave me the idea of having a product that helps people living with MND, be able to stay at their homes for longer, in turn retaining their independence for longer as well. 80% of people with MND will have communication difficulties. While my product will not solve all of the problems, it can help reduce the negative impact on the user, in small ways that make a big difference.

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In NI, there are 140 people with MND. Around 30-40 new cases are diagnosed each year. While the number of those impacted is small, the potential to make a difference to their lives and their families, is HUGE

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As MND is a progressive disease, I need to consider when my intervention would be most beneficial to the user. In my research, I found that there are 5 main stages of MND. So I need to consider when my product would be the most useful.

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Though the person will experience significant physical limitations, individuals remain mentally alert and cognitively intact. So providing a product that helps them communication, when their body can’t, could be a possible solution. Depending on what device my product will be on, will depend on the stage/s I have focused on.