Does my stigma look big in this? Considering acceptability and desirability in the inclusive design of technology products

Abstract

This paper examines the relationship between stigmatic effects of design of technology products for the older and disabled and contextualizes this within wider social themes such as the functional, social, medical and technology models of disability. Inclusive design approaches are identified as unbiased methods for designing for the wider population that may accommodate the needs and desires of people with impairments, therefore reducing 'aesthetic stigma'. Two case studies illustrate stigmatic and non-stigmatic designs. © Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg 2007.