Tools we use: Raycast
Raycast is a powerful app launcher that speeds up everyday tasks. Its integration with popular apps and built-in AI makes it a must-have tool for developers at Empathy.
Raycast is a powerful app launcher that speeds up everyday tasks. Its integration with popular apps and built-in AI makes it a must-have tool for developers at Empathy.
Diving into the complexities of managing a live Django application, we recently embarked on a journey to streamline an overly cumbersome app. Initially, a simple text field evolved into a web of models and views, leading us to tackle the monolithic beast it had become. The challenge was not just refactoring but doing so on a live site bustling with traffic. Our goal? To automate and flawlessly execute the migration without disrupting our users. Through a series of calculated steps, from duplicating models to meticulously migrating data and references, we leveraged Django's migration system's power for a smooth transition. This methodical approach not only ensured the integrity of our live data but also made the entire process repeatable and testable, assuring us of its success on our production site. The adventure into refactoring and migration was a testament to Django's robustness and our commitment to maintaining a seamless user experience, even behind the scenes.
In response to my grandmother's isolation during the COVID pandemic, I've created a concept for a simplified smart display tailored for the elderly. This device is designed to facilitate easy communication with family, aid in memory recall, and keep the user connected with loved ones. My vision for this smart display includes a family-centered dashboard, simplified profiles for each family member, effortless video calling, memory aids, and a photo gallery. The aim is to develop a user-friendly device that addresses the needs of seniors who may be uncomfortable with complex technology.
Launch as early as possible, and build up from there
Finding the perfect smart home display to connect with my Babichka, a vibrant 96-year-old with a rich history but limited tech experience, has been a mission of love and necessity. COVID-19's relentless waves have isolated her in her nursing home, making the quest for an intuitive, phone-free communication device crucial. Our choice fell on Google's Home Max, lured by its large, beautiful display and promising features like hands-free video calls, easy photo sharing, and access to virtual assistants and music services. However, the journey was not without its hurdles. Setting up the device required a dedicated phone number and some tech gymnastics, challenging the notion that it was designed for the tech-averse. Despite these obstacles, the device shines in certain areas. Its integration with Google Photos as a dynamic digital frame and the simplicity of making video calls offer glimpses of the connection we hoped to restore. Yet, the reliance on smartphone integration for setup and some functionalities has been a reminder of the gap between tech design and the needs of users like my grandmother. This experience has been both hopeful and frustrating, highlighting the need for truly user-friendly tech solutions for the elderly.
The Facebook Portal offers a visually appealing design and straightforward setup, making it an intriguing option for connecting grandparents with family. Its ability to easily handle video calls via Facebook Messenger and serve as a digital photo album adds to its allure. However, its complicated user interface, challenging nighttime display settings, and the necessity for PIN inputs could pose significant difficulties, especially for those with cognitive impairments like dementia. While the Portal has potential, especially with future updates aimed at elderly users, its current limitations suggest it might not be the ideal choice for grandparents seeking simple and accessible communication technology.