A User-Centered Smart Medication Dispenser Design for Korean Elderly Users

South Korea is rapidly becoming a super-aged society, creating critical gaps in elderly medication management. Over two million elderly Koreans live alone, and nearly half of those with chronic conditions struggle to follow prescribed regimens. This convergent research (융복합 연구) adopts a multidisciplinary approach integrating user-centered design, healthcare technology, and gerontology to propose a smart medication dispenser tailored for elderly Koreans, including those with dementia or visual impairments. Fieldwork in Seoul's Mapo district, including pharmacist surveys and elderly user interviews, informed the design requirements. The proposed device features an ATM-style sachet dispensing mechanism compatible with the Korean pharmacy system, AI-powered Korean voice assistance, multi-sensory feedback, and culturally sensitive aesthetics reflecting filial piety. This study demonstrates that convergent design approaches combining assistive technology and cultural considerations can meaningfully support elderly independence and medication adherence.