about
In collaboration with SFCS Architects, a firm committed to Senior Living Design, we had the opportunity to explore possible new ways to support aging-in-place.
goal
The goal of this project was to design a product, service, or environmental solution that meaningfully improves quality of life for older adults who are aging in place.
outcome
Circadence is an aromatherapy diffuser paired with a companion mobile app designed to support circadian rhythms through scent-based scheduling.
CIRCADENCE
Aromatherapy Diffuser for Senior Living
Aromatherapy Diffuser for Senior Living
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6 Week Project
Fall 2025
Fall 2025
Virginia Tech School of Design
Team Members: Malayna Cherbaka,
Roman Calvin, Aidan Lewis, Sam Wazenski
Roman Calvin, Aidan Lewis, Sam Wazenski
context.
97% of nursing home residents have abnormal circadian rhythms.
what is aromatherapy?
Aromatherapy is a wellness practice that uses essential oils from plants to support physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being.
how does it improve your well-being?
Inhalation of essential oils is most effective compared to other methods, supported by Hopkins Medicine.
When inhaled, the scent molecules in essential oils travel from the olfactory nerves directly into the brain improving benefits like sleep, relaxation, and mood.
The oil safely disperses essential oils for relaxation, mood, and air freshness without the utilization of heat, candles, or synthetic sprays.
ideation.
approachable - supportive - intuitive
challenges.
multi-scent functionality
Most aromatherapy diffusers are designed to release one scent at a time. Supporting circadian rhythms requires a system capable of holding and switching between multiple scents without increasing complexity.
independent use
Many existing devices rely on small controls or frequent maintenance that can be difficult for older adults. Our product needed to be intuitive, legible, and independently usable.
low-maintenance operation
Ultrasonic diffuser require regular water refills and cleaning. We needed to eliminate this friction by using another type of diffusion that would reduce daily upkeep.
balance automation and control
While automation reduces cognitive load, too much can disconnect a user and make them feel powerless. We were challenged with designing a system that still allowed users to set the schedules themselves.
How might we help seniors maintain healthy circadian rhythms... so they feel more cognizant, rested, and in sync with their daily routines?
final design.
scent cartridges
Scent refills are loaded into the diffuser from the top, using a push-push mechanism for easy replacement. Each refill lasts around one month, reducing the need for frequent maintenance.
cold air jet diffusion
Cold air jet diffusion disperses fragrance without heat or water, delivering a consistent scent while preserving the integrity of essential oils. By eliminating the need for water refills and frequent cleaning, this method reduces maintenance and supports safer, low-effort use for aging users.
app.
circadence app
The circadence app was designed to be easily usable by older adults, prioritizing clarity, legibility, and low cognitive load. The home page displays all connected diffusers in one place, allowing users to adjust scent schedules and intensity with minimal steps. A simplified device setup flow supports adding new diffusers independently, while a shopping page enables users or caregivers to manage fragrance subscriptions and reorder scents. The app supports consistent daily use while preserving ease, autonomy, and control.
thank you.
