AudioBuddy: An Assistive Technology for People with Noise Sensitivity and Their Care Networks

Noise sensitivity is prevalent in both neurodivergent and neurotypical people, making self-regulation challenging and impacting their quality of life. Little work has been done in the wearable and ubiquitous computing space to support these particular experiences. My research explores how people with noise sensitivity (PWNS) and those around them manage and regulate their own and other's reactions to noise. Leveraging wearable and mobile devices, this work explores the management and regulation behaviors of PWNS and their care networks. It describes the design and deployment process of a novel application that utilizes wearable sensor technology to sense physiological and environmental signals, facilitate awareness and information sharing, and present users with strategies for managing and regulating noise sensitivity experiences. This research strives to contribute an understanding of noise sensitivity experiences, inclusive design practices, and a technological solution to support people with noise sensitivity.