Twelve Cups of Care
Enhancing Emotional Support for Families of Head and Neck Cancer Patients in Palliative Care
H. Liu (TU Delft - Industrial Design Engineering)
P.M.A. Desmet – Graduation committee member (TU Delft - Industrial Design Engineering)
M. Filippi – Mentor (TU Delft - Industrial Design Engineering)
Chan Mi Kim – Mentor (Erasmus MC)
M.P. J (Marinella) Offerman – Mentor (Erasmus MC)
B.N (Boyd) van den Besselaar – Mentor (Erasmus MC)
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Abstract
This graduation project explores how design can support the emotional needs of next of kin of palliative care patients with head and neck cancer. Caring for a loved one during palliative treatment often places family members in a vulnerable position, where uncertainty, emotional burden, and lack of guidance can create stress and feelings of helplessness. While hospital focuses primarily on medical treatment and providing support for the family that is in need, many family and patient feel overwhelmed to spend time reflecting on their well-being and respond to the inquiry. Given the context, this project, collaborating with Erasmus MC, aims to address that gap by identifying how small, tangible interventions can contribute to emotional well-being, reflection, and a sense of support for next of kin.
The research was conducted with interview on paramedical staff member from the organization and feedback and insights gathered from the clients. Insights were translated into design opportunities and iteratively developed into a tangible concept: a reflective tea collection that offers a short moment of pause, emotional acknowledgement, or uplifting guidance during daily life. The concept was evaluated and refined using feedback from participants who have experience of palliative or end-of-life care. The evaluation also indicates what further improvements could been done to refine the product and what elements (visuals, text, color, prompts etc.) in the concept could be helpful and use as a reference for future designs.
The project demonstrates that even simple, small-scale interventions can create meaningful emotional impact. It also shows the value of integrating design into hospital environments to support well-being beyond medical treatment. This work contributes to the broader discussion of how design can support families who are facing cancer, reduce emotional isolation, and support mental well-being in palliative care.