Designing for Older Adults: Case Studies, Methods, and Tools

Designing for Older Adults: Case Studies, Methods, and Tools emphasizes the importance of designing with older adults in mind, using human factors tools and user-centered design principles to understand their needs and preferences. It provides illustrative case studies and recommendations for designers to create effective and accessible products, technologies, and environments for the aging population.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 162 pages
Publication date: 28 September 2020
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

There is a wide range of products, tools, and technologies available that can offer support to older adults. However, for these solutions to be effective, they must be designed with older adults in mind, considering their unique needs, abilities, and preferences. Achieving good design is a collaborative process that can be facilitated by observing principles and guidelines in action. To succeed in design, it is crucial to understand how to utilize the available methods and tools to evaluate initial ideas and prototypes.

The primary goal of this book is to present illustrative case studies of designing for older adults based on real design challenges faced by the researchers at the Center for Research and Education on Aging and Technology Enhancement (CREATE) over the past two decades. These case studies showcase the application of human factors tools and user-centered design principles to understand the needs of older adults, identify areas where existing designs fall short of older users, and evaluate the effectiveness of design changes in improving the accommodation of the large and growing aging population.

The book offers a comprehensive framework for designing with older adults in mind. It discusses important design considerations specific to this demographic and provides a practical guide for designers. The book includes a series of real-world case studies that bring design principles to life and demonstrate their practical applications. These case studies cover a wide range of design challenges, from the design of healthcare devices to computer systems and apps, transportation systems, and robots. By examining these challenges, readers gain a deep understanding of the complexities involved in designing for older adults and the potential benefits that can be achieved through thoughtful and inclusive design.

In addition to providing a theoretical foundation, the book also offers an overview of emerging technologies and their potential benefits to older adults. It discusses anticipated design considerations and emerging approaches to evaluating design, ensuring that designers are equipped with the latest knowledge and tools to create solutions that are both user-friendly and accessible. The book features contributions from designers with extensive experience in designing for older adults, providing valuable insights and perspectives.

Overall, "Designing for Older Adults: Case Studies, Methods, and Tools" is a valuable resource for designers, researchers, and policymakers interested in improving the quality of life for older adults. By embracing the principles of user-centered design and considering the unique needs and preferences of older adults, we can create solutions that enhance their independence, mobility, and overall well-being.

Weight: 260g
Dimension: 236 x 156 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781138052857