Indepence for older people with an at home exercise companion
Information
Author: Berghman, K.
Contributor: Molenbroek, J.F.M., Van der Cammer, T.J.M.
Faculty: Industrial Design Engineering
Department: Applied Ergonomics & Design
Programme: Integrated Product Design
Type: Master thesis
Date: 2016-09-26
Keywords: physical activity | older people | robot | exercise | geriatrics
Abstract
The overall assignment at the start of the project is “Designing a low threshold product for at-home use to maintain and increase the physical fitness of Dutch older people over 70 by increasing their physical movement and thereby increase confidence, mobility and independence”. The project was executed at Springlab, an innovation agency that focuses on innovations that incorporate physical activity in daily life in a fun way. First of all the target group was researched, starting with orientating on the subject with interviews. The findings of the interviews were validated using a questionnaire. The decision was made to design for a target group aged 75-85 of people with limited to no physical limitations that are in a transitional period of becoming less physically active. Furthermore people enjoy walking and cycling outdoors, but don’t like actually exercising or feel too old for it. When looking at the current Dutch healthcare system, many different home and care institutions are apparent. Only older people with severe physical or mental limitations are allowed to live in care institutions resulting in 96% of older people living independently. Simultaneously healthcare is focused on treatment rather than prevention by for example exercising.
Due to Sarcopenia, the decrease of muscles, it is recommended for older people to perform strength exercises twice a week in addition to the recommended standard of 30 minutes of physical activity daily. Progressive strength, flexibility and balance training is chosen to design for as it is most effective in increasing mobility and thereby independence. In terms of motivation, self-efficacy, prompts and social support is key. Market research has resulted in a market size of 27.000 people, about 3% of independently living older people aged 75-85. When looking at the current market, products and services do not sufficiently satisfy the preferences of the user. Large expensive or small and simple exercise products are offered, though products tend to focus on one type of exercise and not provide feedback to the user. A product that provides at home guidance and feedback with the feeling of an exercising companion is the goal. Trends show opportunities in products for older people, quantification of personal data and an increased focus on health and wellbeing. All gained information and the requirements towards the design are bundled in the design brief.The final design goal is to facilitate in increase in physical fitness and confidence to enable older people with decreased activity to be more active outdoor by motivating them to do at home strength exercises in a fun way. Ideation With the design brief brainstorms were held and concepts were developed. The intended interaction of the product was determined with a scenario. Three different concepts were developed and assessed using the requirements and wishes that were set-up during the Analysis. The workout buddy will be further developed. Embodiment A short test of the working principle of the workout buddy showed enthusiasm from the users. Therefore it was decided to continue with the concept. The form, color and parts were determined by studying current solutions and available parts.
The interaction and exercises were determined with the help of a geriatrics physical therapist, and literature study. Progressive strength, flexibility and balance exercises are included, endurance training is excluded due to potential risks for cardiovascular failure in the target group. The interaction is as simple as possible with only audio feedback towards the user. The user provides “yes” and “no” feedback to the product. Furthermore the product detects and saves the performed exercises along with the performed level. Determining the materials, production and costs of all parts resulted in a cost estimation for a 1000 batch edition and a 27 000 batch edition. The current investment for the physical parts of 1000 products is €27 323, which is €27,32 costs per product. The total investment for the physical parts 27 000 = €276 796 which is = €10.25 per product. Investors need to be found and the product will be promoted amongst caregivers and older people for a sales price of €100-€150. Testing with the target group has shown that the interaction with the product is effective, users enjoy the product and follow the exercise instructions. However some aspects still need improvement.
First of all the audio volume should be adjustable and even more adapted to deaf people. Some exercises should be explained more clearly. It should be clear when to press the buttons, the table attachment should be possible with a tablecloth and the colours of the product should be adjusted to the interiors. Overall a unique new product has been designed, a low tech affordable exercise robot that provides feedback and companionship while doing a variety of progressive exercises. Future opportunities lie in more advanced technology and functions and new applications in the medical field or other target groups.