OpenQuest is an accessibility-focused initiative designed to explore how augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) tools can support older adults in expressing their needs, preferences, and lived experiences more effectively.
This project brings together inclusive design, usability, and communication accessibility to address real-world challenges faced by older adults, including speech difficulties, cognitive load, sensory limitations, and reduced confidence in digital tools.
Effective communication is essential for independence, dignity, and social connection. Many older adults face barriers to communication because of age-related changes, medical conditions, or reduced access to technology that is designed with their needs in mind.
OpenQuest aims to reimagine AAC as a simple, supportive, and respectful tool that helps users communicate with clarity and confidence.
- Improve access to communication support for older adults.
- Design inclusive, easy-to-use AAC experiences.
- Prioritize accessibility, readability, and usability across varied abilities.
- Explore how technology can reduce communication barriers in everyday life.
- Develop a foundation for future product and research work in accessible communication.
This repository currently represents the early concept and project direction. The focus is on exploring the problem space, defining user-centered goals, and preparing a foundation for future implementation work.
As the project evolves, this README will be expanded with:
- system architecture and technical design
- project setup instructions
- usage guidelines
- research or user-testing findings
- contribution guidelines and coding standards
To create AAC solutions that are not only functional but also compassionate, intuitive, and empowering for older adults and the caregivers, families, and communities who support them.
This repository is in its early stages. The project is being structured around accessibility and inclusive communication design, but implementation details, setup steps, and deployment instructions are still being defined.
Contributions, feedback, and collaboration are welcome. If you are interested in supporting this initiative, we encourage you to:
- open an issue to discuss ideas or improvements
- suggest accessibility-focused use cases
- propose design enhancements for usability and inclusion
- contribute to research, documentation, or early implementation work
No license has been specified for this repository yet. Please contact the repository maintainers before reusing, modifying, or distributing the project materials.
OpenQuest is being developed as part of the Hackcelerate initiative, with a focus on inclusive technology and accessible communication for aging communities.
This repository will continue to evolve as the project matures. Feedback and collaboration are encouraged as we shape a more thoughtful and accessible communication experience for older adults.