An innovative concept, “design thinking,” has become connected to products designed particularly for the elderly. However, in its true form, design thinking actually encompasses a wider purpose: creating product solutions that make life more comfortable – whether the user is young or old.
Seniors can definitely gain advantages from the development of carefully thought out products, particularly in helping improve the quality of care at home, such as specialized chairs chat can help with bathing patients with Alzheimer's or dementia, or smartphone technology that assists with medication management, however the most powerful and effective design thinking reaches across the generations. It involves stepping into a variety of users’ shoes and trying to globally meet their varied needs.
A perfect example of this is Nintendo’s very popular Wii game system. Enjoyed by children, seniors, and everyone in between, its brilliant design places a focus on the strengths of its users, rather than trying to solve a need to address their weaknesses. Simply put by Kavan Peterson, Editor, ChangingAging.org, “Do not design based on decline”.
Independence-4-Seniors can offer tips on helpful tools that work successfully for our senior clients, and for the family and friends who care for them. Let us show you how we can help with our professional care at home services in Chicago. Call us at 630-323-4665 to learn more.