CompanionPulse User Interface Specifications

Version 1.0.0
Last Updated: November 7, 2025

Executive Summary

This document defines the user interface specifications for CompanionPulse, a digital companion platform designed to combat elder isolation through meaningful connection. The interface system prioritizes clarity, accessibility, and emotional warmth to serve both senior primary users and their adult children as secondary users. These specifications establish a comprehensive framework for implementing a cohesive, intuitive, and engaging user experience across all touchpoints.

Our UI system expresses our identity as a Caregiver brand through warm, approachable visual elements while adhering to principles of clarity, dignity, and gentle guidance for a cohesive experience. The system accommodates the technical constraints of various devices seniors might use while ensuring WCAG 2.1 AA compliance for maximum accessibility.

1. Design Foundation

1.1 Brand Expression in Interface

CompanionPulse's interface embodies our "Warm Sophistication" visual identity balanced with "Accessible Technology" principles to create experiences that feel both familiar and contemporary. The UI avoids the clinical or patronizing aesthetic often found in products for seniors while maintaining exceptional usability.

1.1.1 Color Application

The CompanionPulse color system translates our brand palette to interface contexts with special attention to contrast ratios and color meaning:

Color Role	Application	Accessibility Considerations
Primary Action	Amber Glow (#E8A44C) for primary buttons, focus states, and key interactive elements	4.5:1 minimum contrast with text
Secondary Action	Terracotta (#B85C38) for secondary actions and emphasis	Used with white text for sufficient contrast
Backgrounds	Soft Cream (#F7EDE2) for primary surfaces with white for contrast areas	Creates warm, inviting foundation
Text	Deep Indigo (#2E294E) for primary text with lighter variants for hierarchy	7:1 contrast ratio with background colors
Status Indicators	Semantic colors (success, warning, error, info) with supporting icons	Never rely on color alone for meaning

1.1.2 Typography Implementation

Typography implementation prioritizes readability for aging eyes while maintaining brand character:

• Primary Headings: Merriweather (serif) in semibold weight, 24-32px
• Secondary Headings: Merriweather in regular weight, 20-24px
• Body Text: Source Sans Pro (sans-serif) in regular weight, 18px minimum
• UI Elements: Source Sans Pro in regular and semibold weights, 16px minimum
• Line Height: 1.5 for body text, 1.3 for headings
• Letter Spacing: Slightly increased (0.01em) for better readability

1.1.3 Shape Language

The UI employs a consistent shape language that feels approachable and friendly:

• Rounded corners (8px standard radius) on all containers and interactive elements
• Slightly asymmetrical forms that feel organic rather than rigid
• Generous padding and spacing to prevent visual crowding
• Horizontal emphasis in layouts for easier scanning and reading

1.2 UX Principles

CompanionPulse's interface is guided by five core experience principles derived from our Caregiver brand archetype:

1. Dignified Simplicity: Create interfaces that respect users' intelligence while removing unnecessary complexity
2. Gentle Guidance: Provide clear direction without overwhelming or patronizing users
3. Forgiving Interactions: Design error-resistant interfaces that help users recover easily from mistakes
4. Emotional Warmth: Infuse interactions with genuine warmth that fosters connection and trust
5. Consistent Reliability: Maintain predictable patterns that build confidence through familiarity

1.3 Technical Constraints

The interface system accommodates these key technical parameters:

• Device Support: Primary optimization for tablets and smart displays with secondary support for smartphones and desktop web
• Performance Targets: Smooth operation on 3-year-old mid-range tablets and smart displays
• Network Considerations: Graceful degradation during intermittent connectivity
• Voice Integration: Seamless handoff between voice and touch interactions
• Browser Support: Latest two versions of major browsers plus IE11 for desktop access by adult children

1.4 Accessibility Requirements

CompanionPulse adheres to WCAG 2.1 AA standards with additional senior-specific considerations:

• Text Size: Minimum 16px for all text with most text at 18px or larger
• Touch Targets: Minimum 44px × 44px for all interactive elements with generous spacing
• Color Contrast: Exceeding minimum ratios (4.5:1 for normal text, 3:1 for large text)
• Focus Indicators: Highly visible focus states with 3px blue outlines
• Screen Reader Support: Comprehensive ARIA implementation and semantic HTML
• Reduced Motion: Respecting user preferences for reduced animation
• Cognitive Accessibility: Clear language, consistent patterns, and minimal cognitive load

2. Component Library

2.1 Core Elements

2.1.1 Button System

Buttons provide clear action affordances with generous sizing and strong visual hierarchy.

graph TD
    A[Button System] --> B[Primary Button]
    A --> C[Secondary Button]
    A --> D[Tertiary Button]
    A --> E[Icon Button]
    
    B --> B1[Default State]
    B --> B2[Hover State]
    B --> B3[Active State]
    B --> B4[Focus State]
    B --> B5[Disabled State]

Primary Button:

• Purpose: Main actions, form submission, primary path advancement
• Visual: Amber Glow (#E8A44C) background with white text
• Size: 48px height minimum with 24px horizontal padding
• States:
  • Default: Amber Glow background, white text, 8px radius
  • Hover: Lighter Amber Glow (#F0B76A), subtle glow effect
  • Active/Pressed: Darker Amber Glow (#D99538), slight inset shadow
  • Focus: 3px blue outline (#758ECD)
  • Disabled: 40% opacity, not-allowed cursor

Secondary Button:

• Purpose: Alternative actions, secondary choices, optional paths
• Visual: White background with Amber Glow border and text
• Size: Same as primary (48px height minimum)
• States:
  • Default: White background, Amber Glow border and text
  • Hover: Light Amber Glow background (#FAF0E2)
  • Active/Pressed: Slightly darker border, inset shadow
  • Focus: 3px blue outline (#758ECD)
  • Disabled: 40% opacity, not-allowed cursor

Tertiary Button:

• Purpose: Lowest priority actions, cancel options
• Visual: Text-only with Amber Glow color
• Size: Same touch target (48px) with reduced visual presence
• States:
  • Default: Amber Glow text, no background
  • Hover: Light Amber Glow background (#FAF0E2)
  • Active/Pressed: Slightly darker text
  • Focus: 3px blue outline (#758ECD)
  • Disabled: 40% opacity, not-allowed cursor

Icon Button:

• Purpose: Compact actions where meaning is clear from icon
• Visual: Icon with optional background
• Size: 48px × 48px minimum touch target
• Variants:
  • Contained: With visible background
  • Ghost: Icon only with hover state
• Always includes tooltip for accessibility

2.1.2 Form Elements

Form elements prioritize clarity and error prevention with generous sizing.

Text Fields:

• Height: 56px for single-line inputs
• Padding: 16px horizontal, 12px vertical
• Label: Always visible above input, never as placeholder
• Text: 18px minimum size with high contrast
• States:
  • Default: Light border (#C7C7C7), cream background
  • Focus: Amber Glow border with subtle glow effect
  • Filled: Maintained border definition
  • Error: Terracotta border with error icon and message below
  • Disabled: Light gray background, reduced opacity
• Variations:
  • Standard: Single-line text input
  • Multi-line: Expandable text area
  • With icon: Leading or trailing icon for context
  • With action: Trailing clear or show/hide button

Selection Controls:

• Checkboxes:

  • Size: 24px visual size, 44px touch area
  • States: Unchecked (empty), Checked (Amber Glow with white checkmark)
  • Label: Right-aligned, vertically centered
  • Focus: Blue outline surrounding the control

• Radio Buttons:

  • Size: 24px visual size, 44px touch area
  • States: Unselected (empty circle), Selected (Amber Glow with white dot)
  • Layout: Vertical by default for clarity
  • Focus: Blue outline surrounding the control

• Toggle Switches:

  • Size: 28px height, 52px width
  • States: Off (gray track, white knob left), On (Amber Glow track, white knob right)
  • Optional label for current state (On/Off)
  • Focus: Blue outline surrounding the control

Dropdown Menus:

• Height: 56px for trigger element
• Option height: 48px minimum
• Visible options: Maximum 5-7 to prevent overwhelming
• States:
  • Closed: Similar to text field with chevron indicator
  • Open: Elevated menu with current selection highlighted
  • Option hover: Light Amber Glow background
  • Option selected: Checkmark icon and/or bold text
• Variations:
  • Single select: Standard dropdown
  • Multi-select: With chips for selected items
  • Searchable: With filter input field

Date and Time Inputs:

• Calendar picker: Large, easy-to-target dates (44px minimum)
• Time selection: Hour/minute increments with large touch targets
• Clear format guidance and examples
• Today/Now shortcuts for quick selection

2.2 Navigation System

2.2.1 Primary Navigation

graph TD
    A[Primary Navigation] --> B[Mobile Bottom Nav]
    A --> C[Tablet Side Nav]
    A --> D[Desktop Side Nav]
    
    B --> B1[Icon + Text Labels]
    B --> B2[Max 5 Options]
    B --> B3[Active State Indicator]
    
    C --> C1[Expanded Labels]
    C --> C2[Icon + Text]
    C --> C3[Collapsible Option]
    
    D --> D1[Persistent Display]
    D --> D2[Section Headers]
    D --> D3[Hierarchical Structure]

Mobile Bottom Navigation:

• Position: Fixed at bottom of screen
• Height: 64px with safe area considerations
• Items: 3-5 maximum with icon and text label
• Active state: Amber Glow icon and text with indicator line
• Inactive state: Gray icon and text
• Touch target: Full height of bar, equal width divisions

Tablet/Desktop Side Navigation:

• Position: Fixed at left side
• Width: 240px expanded, 72px collapsed
• Sections: Grouped by category with headers
• Items: Icon and text with 48px height minimum
• Active state: Amber Glow background with high contrast text
• Hover state: Light Amber Glow background
• Collapse control: Allow toggle between expanded and icon-only states

Navigation Hierarchy:

• Level 1: Main sections in primary navigation
• Level 2: Sub-sections as expandable items or secondary navigation
• Level 3: Page-level navigation via tabs or sub-navigation

2.2.2 Secondary Navigation

Tabs:

• Height: 48px minimum
• Indicator: Underline or background for active tab
• Layout: Horizontal scrolling when needed
• States:
  • Inactive: Gray or text-colored label
  • Active: Amber Glow text with indicator
  • Hover: Lighter Amber Glow
  • Focus: Blue outline
• Variations:
  • Text only: Clean, simple labels
  • Icon and text: For better recognition
  • Pill style: Button-like tabs with background

Breadcrumbs:

• Display: On desktop and tablet, optional on mobile
• Separator: Chevron icon
• Current page: Non-interactive, normal text color
• Previous levels: Interactive links in Amber Glow
• Truncation: Ellipsis for deep paths with tooltip on hover

Back Navigation:

• Mobile: Prominent back button at top left
• Animation: Slide transition to reinforce directional navigation
• Label: "Back" text with left arrow icon
• Position: Consistent across all non-home screens

2.3 Information Display

2.3.1 Card Components

Cards serve as primary containers for related content with clear visual boundaries.

graph TD
    A[Card System] --> B[Basic Card]
    A --> C[Media Card]
    A --> D[Action Card]
    A --> E[List Card]
    A --> F[Status Card]
    
    B --> B1[Header]
    B --> B2[Content]
    B --> B3[Footer/Actions]
    
    C --> C1[Media Area]
    C --> C2[Content Area]
    C --> C3[Action Area]

Basic Card:

• Purpose: Container for related content
• Structure:
  • Padding: 24px consistent internal spacing
  • Radius: 8px rounded corners
  • Shadow: Subtle elevation (4px blur, 1px spread, 8% opacity)
  • Border: Optional 1px border for additional definition
• Components:
  • Header: Optional title area with actions
  • Content: Primary content area
  • Footer: Optional action area

Media Card:

• Purpose: Highlighting visual content with supporting information
• Structure:
  • Media: Top-positioned image, video, or visualization
  • Content: Below media with standard card padding
  • Actions: Optional buttons at bottom
• Media aspect ratio: 16:9 or 4:3 standard options

Action Card:

• Purpose: Entire card serves as interactive element
• Behavior: Full card is clickable/tappable
• States:
  • Default: Standard card elevation
  • Hover: Slightly increased elevation, subtle background change
  • Active: Decreased elevation (pressed appearance)
  • Focus: Blue outline
• Always includes clear affordance indicator (chevron, etc.)

List Card:

• Purpose: Container for structured list items
• Structure:
  • Header: Card title and optional actions
  • Items: Consistent structure with dividers
  • Footer: Optional "View all" or pagination
• Item height: 60px minimum for interactive lists

Status Card:

• Purpose: Display system or user status information
• Structure:
  • Status indicator: Icon and/or color
  • Primary information: Large, prominent metrics
  • Secondary information: Supporting context
  • Actions: Optional related actions
• Status variations: Success, warning, error, neutral

2.3.2 Lists and Tables

Lists and tables present structured information with clarity and sufficient spacing.

Simple List:

• Purpose: Basic text items in vertical arrangement
• Item height: 48px minimum (60px for interactive items)
• Dividers: 1px light separator between items
• Padding: 16px horizontal, consistent vertical alignment
• States for interactive lists:
  • Default: Standard appearance
  • Hover: Light Amber Glow background
  • Selected: Amber Glow background or indicator
  • Focus: Blue outline

Detail List:

• Purpose: Items with primary and secondary information
• Structure:
  • Primary text: Larger (18px), stronger weight
  • Secondary text: Smaller (16px), lighter weight
  • Optional metadata: Right-aligned or below
  • Optional leading image: Avatar, icon, or thumbnail
• Vertical spacing: Adequate separation between text elements

Settings List:

• Purpose: Option-style list items often with controls
• Structure:
  • Label: Left-aligned text describing setting
  • Control: Right-aligned toggle, dropdown, or button
  • Description: Optional secondary text below label
• Height: 72px minimum to accommodate description

Tables:

• Purpose: Structured data presentation in rows and columns
• Features:
  • Header: Sticky on scroll, strong visual distinction
  • Rows: Minimum 60px height, alternate row shading
  • Cells: Consistent padding (16px), appropriate alignment
  • Pagination: When exceeding 10-15 rows
• Responsive behavior:
  • Horizontal scrolling on small screens
  • Column priority hiding
  • Optional card view on mobile

2.3.3 Status Indicators

Status indicators provide clear visual feedback about system and content states.

Badges:

• Purpose: Small, non-interactive indicators
• Size: Compact with minimal padding
• Content: Numbers, short text, or icons
• Placement: Top-right of associated element
• Colors: Semantic color system (success, warning, error, info)

Progress Indicators:

• Linear progress:

  • Height: 8px with rounded ends
  • Colors: Amber Glow for standard, semantic colors for status
  • Label: Percentage or step indication above
  • Animation: Smooth transitions between states

• Circular progress:

  • Size: 48px standard, 24px compact
  • Stroke width: 4px standard
  • Colors: Amber Glow for standard, semantic colors for status
  • Optional center content: Percentage or icon

Status Pills:

• Purpose: Medium-sized indicators with text and color
• Structure:
  • Height: 32px with 16px horizontal padding
  • Radius: Fully rounded (16px)
  • Icon: Optional leading icon
  • Text: Status word ("Active", "Pending", etc.)
• Colors:
  • Success: Sage Green background, darker text
  • Warning: Amber Glow background, darker text
  • Error: Terracotta background, white text
  • Info: Dusty Blue background, white text
  • Neutral: Warm Gray background, dark text

2.4 Feedback Mechanisms

2.4.1 Alerts and Notifications

Alerts and notifications provide clear, timely feedback with appropriate urgency levels.

graph TD
    A[Alerts & Notifications] --> B[Toast Notifications]
    A --> C[Banner Alerts]
    A --> D[Inline Alerts]
    A --> E[Dialog Alerts]
    
    B --> B1[Success]
    B --> B2[Warning]
    B --> B3[Error]
    B --> B4[Info]
    
    C --> C1[Persistent]
    C --> C2[Dismissible]
    
    D --> D1[Form Context]
    D --> D2[Content Context]

Toast Notifications:

• Purpose: Temporary, non-blocking feedback
• Position: Bottom of screen, above navigation
• Duration: 5 seconds standard (longer for important messages)
• Structure:
  • Width: 90% on mobile, 360px on larger screens
  • Padding: 16px
  • Icon: Left-aligned status icon
  • Content: Message with optional title
  • Action: Optional single action button
  • Dismiss: Optional close button (required for persistent toasts)
• Animation: Slide up entrance, fade exit
• Stacking: Maximum 3 visible, queue additional

Banner Alerts:

• Purpose: Page-level important messages
• Position: Top of content area, full width
• Structure:
  • Padding: 16px
  • Icon: Left-aligned status icon
  • Content: Message with optional title
  • Actions: Optional action buttons
  • Dismiss: Optional close button
• Persistence: Can be dismissible or persistent
• Variations: Color-coded by severity/type

Inline Alerts:

• Purpose: Contextual feedback within forms or content
• Position: Adjacent to relevant content
• Structure:
  • Padding: 12px
  • Icon: Left-aligned status icon
  • Content: Concise message
  • Actions: Optional inline link
• Border: Left border using semantic color
• Background: Light variant of semantic color

Dialog Alerts:

• Purpose: Critical information requiring acknowledgment
• Structure: Standard dialog with semantic header color
• Content:
  • Title: Clear description of situation
  • Body: Explanation and implications
  • Actions: Primary and secondary actions
• Modal behavior: Blocks interaction with page until addressed
• Animation: Fade in with slight scale

2.4.2 Loading States

Loading states provide clear feedback during system processes with appropriate detail.

Inline Loader:

• Purpose: Replace button text during action processing
• Animation: Circular spinner, 24px diameter
• Context: Maintains button size and shape
• Duration: For operations under 10 seconds
• State transition: Smooth fade between text and loader

Component Loader:

• Purpose: Indicate loading state of specific component
• Variations:
  • Skeleton screens: Content-shaped placeholders
  • Overlay: Semi-transparent with centered spinner
• Animation: Subtle pulse for skeletons, spinning for overlays
• Duration: For operations under 30 seconds

Page Loader:

• Purpose: Indicate initial page loading
• Position: Centered in content area
• Size: 48px diameter minimum
• Animation: Circular with brand colors
• Additional: Optional loading message or progress indication
• Appearance threshold: After 300ms delay to prevent flicker

Process Loader:

• Purpose: Indicate multi-step operations
• Structure:
  • Progress indicator: Linear or stepped
  • Status message: Current operation description
  • Cancel option: When operation can be interrupted
• Updates: Real-time progress updates when available
• Completion: Clear success indication when finished

2.4.3 Modals and Dialogs

Modals and dialogs present focused interactions with clear purpose and simple decisions.

graph TD
    A[Modals & Dialogs] --> B[Standard Dialog]
    A --> C[Form Dialog]
    A --> D[Confirmation Dialog]
    A --> E[Full-Screen Dialog]
    
    B --> B1[Header]
    B --> B2[Content]
    B --> B3[Actions]
    
    C --> C1[Form Fields]
    C --> C2[Validation]
    C --> C3[Submit/Cancel]
    
    D --> D1[Warning Type]
    D --> D2[Destructive Type]
    D --> D3[Confirmation Type]

Standard Dialog:

• Purpose: Present important information requiring attention
• Size:
  • Mobile: Full width with 24px margin, 90% height maximum
  • Tablet/Desktop: 480px width, auto height with maximum
• Structure:
  • Header: Clear title with optional close button
  • Content: Information with appropriate formatting
  • Actions: Right-aligned buttons (primary rightmost)
• Overlay: 60% opacity black background
• Animation: Fade in/out with slight scale
• Dismissal: Via buttons, overlay click, or escape key

Form Dialog:

• Purpose: Collect specific information
• Structure: Standard dialog with form elements
• Validation: Inline validation with error states
• Actions:
  • Primary: Submit/confirm action (disabled until valid)
  • Secondary: Cancel/dismiss
• Keyboard: Submit on Enter when valid

Confirmation Dialog:

• Purpose: Verify user intent before action
• Size: Compact (400px maximum width)
• Structure:
  • Icon: Optional status icon
  • Title: Question or confirmation request
  • Content: Brief explanation of consequences
  • Actions: Clear yes/no or confirm/cancel buttons
• Variations:
  • Standard: Neutral confirmation
  • Warning: Amber color theme for caution
  • Destructive: Terracotta color theme for dangerous actions

Full-Screen Dialog:

• Purpose: Complex interactions requiring focus
• Structure:
  • Header: Title with prominent back/close button
  • Content: Full screen content area
  • Footer: Fixed action buttons
• Navigation: Clear exit path always visible
• Animation: Slide in from right, slide out to left
• Used for: Multi-step processes, detailed forms, immersive content

2.4.4 Tooltips and Contextual Help

Tooltips and contextual help provide additional information without overwhelming the interface.

Simple Tooltip:

• Purpose: Brief text explanation of element
• Trigger: Hover on desktop, long press on touch
• Size: Content-based with maximum width (240px)
• Position: Smart placement to avoid screen edges
• Appearance: After 300ms delay, remains until hover ends
• Dismissal: On mouse out or tap elsewhere

Rich Tooltip:

• Purpose: More detailed explanation with formatting
• Content: Can include formatted text, icons, and links
• Size: Wider (320px maximum) with more padding
• Behavior: Otherwise same as simple tooltip

Help Tip:

• Purpose: Proactive contextual guidance
• Trigger: Question mark icon button
• Content: More extensive help content
• Persistence: Remains open until dismissed
• Can include: Links to more detailed help resources

Feature Tips:

• Purpose: Introduce new or important features
• Trigger: Automatic on feature first encounter
• Structure:
  • Title: Feature name
  • Content: Brief explanation
  • Dismiss: "Got it" button and X close
  • Don't show again: Optional checkbox
• Appearance: Prominent, connected to relevant element
• Frequency: Limited to avoid overwhelming users

3. Pattern System

3.1 Layout System

3.1.1 Grid Framework

CompanionPulse uses a responsive grid system that ensures consistent spacing and alignment.

Base Grid:

• Foundation: 8px base grid for all measurements
• Container width: Maximum 1200px with responsive padding
• Column system:
  • Desktop: 12-column grid
  • Tablet: 8-column grid
  • Mobile: 4-column grid
• Gutters:
  • Desktop: 24px
  • Tablet: 24px
  • Mobile: 16px

Margins and Padding:

• Page margins:
  • Desktop: 48px minimum
  • Tablet: 32px minimum
  • Mobile: 24px minimum
• Component padding:
  • Cards: 24px standard
  • Sections: 32px vertical, 24px horizontal
  • Form groups: 24px between groups

Breakpoints:

• Mobile: 320px - 767px
• Tablet: 768px - 1023px
• Desktop: 1024px and above
• Large desktop: 1440px and above (optional optimizations)

3.1.2 Responsive Patterns

graph TD
    A[Responsive Patterns] --> B[Stacking]
    A --> C[Reflow]
    A --> D[Reveal/Hide]
    A --> E[Priority Content]
    
    B --> B1[Mobile: Vertical Stack]
    B --> B2[Tablet+: Horizontal Arrangement]
    
    C --> C1[Multi-column to Single-column]
    C --> C2[Side-by-side to Stacked]
    
    D --> D1[Progressive Disclosure]
    D --> D2[Optional Content Hiding]
    
    E --> E1[Content Prioritization]
    E --> E2[Above-the-fold Optimization]

Stacking Pattern:

• Desktop: Horizontal arrangement of elements
• Tablet: Modified horizontal with fewer columns
• Mobile: Vertical stacking of elements
• Applies to: Form layouts, card arrangements, dashboard widgets

Reflow Pattern:

• Desktop: Multi-column layouts (2-4 columns)
• Tablet: Reduced columns (1-2 columns)
• Mobile: Single column layout
• Applies to: Card grids, form sections, content blocks

Reveal/Hide Pattern:

• Desktop: More content visible simultaneously
• Tablet: Some secondary content in expandable sections
• Mobile: Progressive disclosure with expandable sections
• Applies to: Navigation, settings pages, detailed information

Priority Content Pattern:

• Desktop: Comprehensive content presentation
• Tablet: Full content with optimized layout
• Mobile: Essential content first with progressive load
• Applies to: Dashboards, profiles, detailed records

3.2 Interaction Models

3.2.1 Primary User Flows

CompanionPulse defines consistent interaction patterns for key user tasks.

Form Completion Flow:

1. Clear section organization with progressive disclosure if lengthy
2. Inline validation with immediate feedback
3. Error prevention through smart defaults and suggestions
4. Clear next steps and submission button
5. Confirmation of successful submission
6. Recovery path for errors or interruptions

Search and Filter Flow:

1. Prominent search input with clear affordance
2. Type-ahead suggestions after 2-3 characters
3. Filter options accessible through expandable controls
4. Results update with minimal delay (under 300ms perception threshold)
5. Empty state with helpful suggestions
6. Clear way to modify or clear search/filters

Onboarding Flow:

1. Welcoming introduction with clear value proposition
2. Progressive steps with completion indicator
3. Minimal required information with clear explanation
4. Engaging visual feedback for completion
5. Clear path to begin using product
6. Option to skip non-essential steps

Settings Adjustment Flow:

1. Logically grouped settings with clear labels
2. Immediate feedback when settings are changed
3. Explicit save action for important settings
4. Automatic save for minor preferences
5. Confirmation for significant changes
6. Reset/revert option for accidental changes

3.2.2 Touch and Voice Interaction

CompanionPulse supports both touch and voice interaction with seamless transitions between modes.

Touch Optimization:

• Touch targets: Minimum 44px × 44px for all interactive elements
• Spacing: Minimum 8px between touch targets
• Feedback: Visual and optional haptic feedback for all interactions
• Gestures: Limited to simple, intuitive gestures (tap, swipe, pinch)
• Edge protection: Safe zones near screen edges

Voice Interaction:

• Activation: Clear wake word or persistent listening mode
• Commands: Natural language with flexibility in phrasing
• Feedback: Visual confirmation of voice recognition
• Errors: Graceful handling with suggestions
• Handoff: Seamless transition between voice and touch
• Accessibility: Alternative to all touch interactions

Multimodal Patterns:

• Voice with visual confirmation
• Voice command initiating touch interaction
• Touch interaction with voice feedback
• Context-aware interaction mode switching
• Preference settings for preferred interaction mode

3.3 State Management

3.3.1 Component States

CompanionPulse implements a comprehensive state system across all interactive elements.

graph TD
    A[Component States] --> B[Interactive States]
    A --> C[Selection States]
    A --> D[Loading States]
    A --> E[Empty States]
    
    B --> B1[Default]
    B --> B2[Hover]
    B --> B3[Active/Pressed]
    B --> B4[Focus]
    B --> B5[Disabled]
    
    C --> C1[Unselected]
    C --> C2[Selected]
    C --> C3[Partially Selected]
    
    D --> D1[Initial Loading]
    D --> D2[Content Loading]
    D --> D3[Action Loading]
    
    E --> E1[Empty List]
    E --> E2[No Results]
    E --> E3[Error State]

Interactive States:

• Default: Neutral appearance with clear affordance
• Hover: Subtle background color change (typically lighter Amber Glow)
• Active/Pressed: Darker color variation with slight inset effect
• Focus: Prominent blue outline (3px) with high contrast
• Disabled: Reduced opacity (40%) with not-allowed cursor

Selection States:

• Unselected: Neutral appearance
• Selected: Amber Glow color application with supporting icon
• Partially Selected: Visual distinction from both selected and unselected

Loading States:

• Initial Loading: Full component/page loader
• Content Loading: Skeleton screens or inline loaders
• Action Loading: Button or action-specific loading indicator

Empty States:

• Empty List: Friendly message with illustration and action
• No Results: Search-specific messaging with suggestions
• Error State: Clear error message with recovery action

3.3.2 Page States

Pages implement consistent state handling across the application.

Initial Load:

• Skeleton screens for content structure
• Progressive loading of content
• Critical content first, secondary content after
• Transition animation when content is ready

Zero Data:

• Welcoming illustration
• Clear explanation of empty state
• Primary action to add first item
• Optional tutorial or guidance

Error States:

• Clear error message in user-friendly language
• Specific recovery action when possible
• Contact support option for unresolvable errors
• Consistent error visualization

Offline State:

• Clear offline indicator
• Cached content shown when available
• Disabled actions that require connectivity
• Automatic retry when connection restored

3.4 Content Patterns

3.4.1 Information Hierarchy

CompanionPulse establishes consistent content hierarchy patterns.

Page Structure Hierarchy:

1. Page title (H1)
2. Section headers (H2)
3. Sub-section headers (H3)
4. Content blocks with optional titles (H4)
5. Supporting content and details

Content Block Pattern:

• Header: Clear title with optional actions
• Primary content: Most important information
• Supporting details: Progressive disclosure if extensive
• Related actions: Contextual to content
• Metadata: Date, status, or other attributes

Progressive Disclosure Pattern:

• Essential information visible initially
• "Show more" or expansion controls for details
• Logical grouping of expanded content
• Smooth animation for expansion/collapse
• Persistent expansion state within session

3.4.2 Empty States and Errors

Empty states and errors provide clear guidance and next steps.

Empty State Pattern:

• Friendly illustration relevant to context
• Clear, positive message explaining the state
• Primary action to resolve empty state
• Secondary guidance or tips when appropriate
• Sufficient space reservation for future content

Search Results Pattern:

• "No results found" with search terms referenced
• Suggested alternative search terms
• Option to browse categories instead
• Clear way to modify search parameters
• Related popular content when appropriate

Error Message Pattern:

• Clear, non-technical explanation
• Specific error code only in secondary position
• Concrete next steps or resolution actions
• Contact method for unresolvable errors
• Empathetic tone avoiding blame

4. Implementation Guidelines

4.1 Accessibility Implementation

4.1.1 Keyboard Navigation

Focus Management:

• Logical tab order following visual layout
• Visible focus indicator (3px blue outline) never suppressed
• Focus trapped within modal dialogs
• Return focus to trigger after dialog dismissal
• Skip links for main content areas

Keyboard Shortcuts:

• Essential functions accessible via keyboard
• Standard patterns (Esc to close, arrows to navigate)
• Documented shortcuts in help section
• No conflicts with assistive technology shortcuts

4.1.2 Screen Reader Support

Semantic Structure:

• Proper heading hierarchy (H1-H6)
• Landmark regions (header, main, navigation, etc.)
• List structures for related items
• Table structure for tabular data

ARIA Implementation:

• Appropriate ARIA roles for custom components
• State communication (expanded, selected, etc.)
• Live regions for dynamic content
• Dialog and overlay management

Text Alternatives:

• Alt text for all meaningful images
• Button and link text describing action
• Form labels properly associated with inputs
• Icon-only controls with accessible names

4.1.3 Visual Accessibility

Color and Contrast:

• Minimum 4.5:1 contrast ratio for all text
• No color as the sole means of conveying information
• Additional indicators beyond color (icons, patterns)
• Sufficient contrast for boundaries and separators

Typography Optimization:

• Minimum 16px text size throughout interface
• Adjustable text size without breaking layouts
• Sufficient line spacing (1.5x) for readability
• Left-aligned text for natural reading flow

Motion Sensitivity:

• Essential-only animations
• Respecting reduced motion preferences
• Brief durations for necessary animations
• No flashing content that could trigger seizures

4.2 Responsive Implementation

4.2.1 Device-Specific Adaptations

Mobile Optimizations:

• Single-column layouts
• Bottom navigation with icon and text
• Simplified headers with essential actions
• Full-width buttons and form elements
• Modal dialogs at nearly full-screen width
• Touch-optimized controls throughout

Tablet Adaptations:

• Two-column layouts where appropriate
• Side navigation option with expanded labels
• Extended headers with additional actions
• Grouped form elements in multi-column layout
• Modal dialogs at approximately 70% screen width
• Optimized for both portrait and landscape

Desktop Refinements:

• Multi-column layouts with flexible grids
• Persistent side navigation or top navigation bar
• Full-featured headers with all actions visible
• Optimized form layouts with logical grouping
• Modal dialogs at fixed maximum width (typically 600px)
• Keyboard shortcut support and hover states

4.2.2 Component-Specific Adaptations

Navigation Transformations:

• Bottom bar on mobile → Side or top navigation on larger screens
• Collapsed menus on mobile → Expanded options on desktop
• Back button prominence on mobile → Breadcrumb trails on desktop

Form Adaptations:

• Stacked fields on mobile → Multi-column layout on desktop
• Full-width buttons on mobile → Proportional width on desktop
• Simplified selection on mobile → Enhanced selection on desktop

Content Display Variations:

• List view on mobile → Grid or table view on desktop
• Progressive disclosure on mobile → Expanded view on desktop
• Focused content on mobile → Contextual information on desktop

4.3 Technical Implementation

4.3.1 Performance Optimization

Rendering Optimization:

• Component-level code splitting
• Lazy loading of off-screen components
• Virtual list rendering for long lists
• Memoization of expensive computations

Asset Optimization:

• Responsive images with srcset
• SVG for icons and simple illustrations
• WebP image format with fallbacks
• Font subsetting for essential characters

Interaction Performance:

• Debounced inputs for search and filters
• Optimistic UI updates for common actions
• Prefetching for likely next actions
• Throttled event handlers for scroll/resize

4.3.2 Framework Integration

React Implementation:

• Component API with consistent prop naming
• Compound components for complex patterns
• Hooks for shared behavior
• Context providers for theme and configuration

Design Token Integration:

• CSS variables for dynamic theming
• Styled-components with theme provider
• Responsive token application
• Animation tokens for consistent motion

5. Documentation Standards

5.1 Component Documentation

Each component should be documented with the following structure:

1. Overview:

   • Purpose and use cases
   • Visual example
   • Key features
   • Accessibility considerations
   • Related components

2. API Reference:

   • Props documentation with types and defaults
   • Event handlers and return values
   • Composition options
   • Theming options

3. Usage Examples:

   • Basic implementation
   • Common variations
   • Responsive behavior
   • Accessibility implementation

4. Guidelines:

   • When to use
   • When not to use
   • Best practices
   • Common pitfalls

5.2 Implementation Checklist

For each component implementation, verify:

1. Visual Consistency:

   • Matches design specifications
   • Uses correct design tokens
   • Maintains proper spacing
   • Implements all required states

2. Accessibility:

   • Keyboard navigable
   • Screen reader compatible
   • Sufficient color contrast
   • Proper ARIA attributes

3. Responsiveness:

   • Adapts appropriately to all breakpoints
   • Maintains usability at all sizes
   • Preserves content hierarchy
   • Optimizes for touch on mobile

4. Performance:

   • Optimized rendering
   • Efficient asset loading
   • Smooth animations
   • Appropriate loading states

Conclusion

The CompanionPulse User Interface Specifications establish a comprehensive framework for creating a cohesive, accessible, and emotionally resonant digital experience. By implementing these specifications consistently across all touchpoints, we will deliver an interface that respects the dignity and capabilities of senior users while providing the reliability and clarity they need to confidently engage with technology.

The system balances the warmth and support of our Caregiver brand archetype with contemporary design practices, avoiding patronizing or clinical aesthetics common in products for seniors. Through generous sizing, clear hierarchy, and thoughtful feedback mechanisms, the interface will foster a sense of confidence and connection for users who may experience physical or cognitive changes associated with aging.

This living document will evolve as we learn more about our users' needs and preferences through ongoing research and testing. All implementation decisions should prioritize the core experience principles of Dignified Simplicity, Gentle Guidance, Forgiving Interactions, Emotional Warmth, and Consistent Reliability.