Empowering Elderly Fitness by Gamifying Walking: A Design Thinking Approach †

Abstract

In today’s fast-paced and continuously evolving fitness industry, it can be difficult for the elderly to keep up with industry and technological trends. Furthermore, a sedentary lifestyle, lack of motivation, and limited access to age-appropriate exercise materials make it difficult for the elderly to engage in fitness activities regularly. They also sometimes struggle to begin and eventually maintain a regular fitness regimen. Hence, this study proposes a technology-driven design intervention to serve the requirements of the elderly and make fitness training simple, enjoyable, and accessible. A systematic design thinking approach was followed, which began with conducting a literature review, then continued with conducting interviews, conceptualizing ideas, prototyping the solution, and usability testing. Combining the gamification technique of personal walking plans with virtual trip experiences increases motivation and makes it more engaging for the elderly. In conclusion, the proposed solution would help the elderly live a much healthier and happier life by making the everyday fitness activity of walking enjoyable and engaging.