Sketch Wireframes
Brainstormed key features including profile building, interest-based matching, messaging, conversation prompts, shared games and engagement streaks.
UI/UX Design
Old Mate App
OLD MATE is an intergenerational matchmaking app that connects younger and older Australians through conversation and collaborative games, helping reduce social isolation and strengthen intergenerational relationships.
01
Overview
Project Outcome
Developed a high-fidelity Figma prototype of a mobile app that enabled users to create profiles, match across generations, chat, and play collaborative games, with flows and interactions defined for future developer handoff
Project Information
- Role
- UI/UX Designer
- Team
- Individual Project
- Focus
- UI/UX Design, Wireframing, User Testing
- Users
- Australian adults aged 65+ · Australian youth under 20
Problem Statement
The combination of Australia's ageing population and declining birth rates has resulted in fewer opportunities for older adults to form relationships with younger generations, reducing social connection, shared learning and the emotional benefits often associated with grandparenthood.
Product Requirements
- Design a simple, intuitive, and clear mobile app with clear pathways between screens
- Follow Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), with legible typography, strong colour contrast and familiar iconography for older users
- Include engaging in-app features that encourage ongoing use and engagement
Research Insights
- 01
Some older adults seek “proxy” grandparent relationships to replace missing intergenerational connections
- 02
Shared activities can make first interactions feel less awkward than conversation alone
- 03
Existing intergenerational programs are often in-person, creating access barriers for older adults with limited mobility or transport
02
Concept Development
User Flow
Initial user journey from matching and connecting through to chatting and playing games.
Test Resultgames needed stronger purpose and incentives to encourage meaningful interaction rather than passive engagement
Prototype
Test Resultdarker text needed, larger icons needed, stronger incentives required to prevent interactions from losing momentum
The final experience created strong incentives for ongoing conversation, games and prompts helped users build meaningful connections.
03
Final Design
A high-fidelity Figma prototype combining guided profiles, interest-based matching, messaging, conversation prompts and shared games to support ongoing intergenerational connection.
