Specific issues of the design for the elderly

Abstract

The actual demographic studies show that number of the elderly people is increasing constantly. Considering their motor, sensorial and cognitive constrains and restrictions, a new field of Assistive Technology is developing, focussed on the design and development of a wide range of devices, apparatus, equipment and systems dedicated to their independent and safe life. In this paper, a systematisation of existing gero-technical systems is proposed, emphasising the today trends in this field. The specific issues of designing this kind of products are identified and analysed. Two approaches of the authors are finally presented: wearable suits for aging and disabilities simulation and tele-monitoring of the elderly.