the future of aging
For many seniors in the u.s., the desire to age in place means living independently at home for as long as possible. However, our homes are typically not designed to accommodate aging as a life stage. our elders benefit from additional assistance requiring wider passageways for wheelchairs, safety rails in bathrooms, single-level living spaces, and accessible kitchens.
In product design, the current offering of medical-style equipment for mobility and assistive devices fails to promote autonomy and graceful aging. Unfortunately, affordable solutions and Medicare reimbursements limit access to more suitable options.
market study - cia
whether it’s opening a package, remembering to take medication or seeing a dial on a stove, small tasks become daily challenges. in the u.s., individuals over the age of 60 living alone and without extended family has increased to 27% — women more often than men.*
how might we imagine the future of aging?
how might we support a sense of community as we age?
how might we address loneliness and create opportunities for multi-generational interactions?
how successfully are the elderly interacting with on-line medical consultations, in-home technology, and robots?