Exercise Characteristics of Older Adults and Considerations for Exercise Equipment Design for them

Abstract

The elderly population is increasing worldwide, particularly in Korea. The deterioration of older adults' physical condition and related diseases are one of the major problems that make their lives difficult, and exercise is one of the best ways to solve this problem. This study aims to discover what factors should be considered when designing home exercise products for older adults. We investigated literature and media related to older adults’ exercise. Then, we interviewed elderly participants to understand the status and context of their exercise. We analyzed the interview using an affinity diagram. As a result, we drew out "thre reasons, status, and obstacles of older adults' exercise" and derived "design considerations for home exercise equipment for older adults" and some design ideas. Those can be used when designing or evaluating exercise equipment for older adults. We hope this study can positively impact the design of products for older adults and their healthy lives.