Abstract
This project investigated a design solution to assist the caregivers of adults with learning disabilities (McRae et al.) in Thailand. The problems associated with LDs are increasing annually. The bulk of primary caregivers are individual family members who provide caregiving services without sufficient support from healthcare organisations. The challenge to Thai caregivers is to maintain their career while concurrently providing care to people with LDs. In some instances, they are pressured into quitting their jobs to care for family members with LDs. This research project employed a design thinking methodology, which is a qualitative approach. Based on trial-and-error attempts and proactive practical experience using the design thinking process, this research established that design outcomes must rapidly meet user needs through the product development cycle of prototype and testing. The results of this research offer a service design solution that can be used to provide support groups for caregivers. The design applies a token system (time-based currency) as a medium for group members with which to either provide or acquire caregiving advice and support they support others in the same position by providing caregiving services on rotational basic. These services also provide a venue for caregivers through which they can stay connected while also serving as a learning environment.
