Through interviews with elderly individuals in both private homes and nursing institutions, we observed a shared sense of structural loneliness. Despite being "cared for," many lacked genuine emotional companionship. Most services focused on physical needs, leaving little room for personal connection. The systemic prioritization of efficiency over empathy led to unmet emotional demands. This disconnect between care and understanding reveals a critical gap in the current eldercare model, calling for a rethinking of humanistic support.

We designed a visual mood journal using simple icons and color blocks to help elderly users express emotions intuitively, reducing communication barriers caused by literacy or cognitive decline.

We conducted periodic mood journal surveys and invited elderly participants to share stories about their daily life, unforgettable memories, and unspoken thoughts, enriching emotional data through qualitative narratives.

We proposed a weekly emotional care plan to nursing homes, established a student volunteer program with universities, and trained staff to recognize emotional cues and log residents’ moods. Through structured visits and emotional engagement, we aimed to build sustained partnerships that prioritize emotional well-being and cultivate dynamic intergenerational support systems.

The project enhanced seniors’ sense of value and satisfaction, while volunteers became more empathetic listeners and rethought their views on aging. Personally, I transformed from being a companion to becoming an advocate—moving from emotional support to building sustainable systems.