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Understanding the assistive technology needs of people over 55: The future of mobility aids
Author(s) -
Moxham Lorna J.,
Stutchbury Tamantha K.,
Spinks Geoffrey,
Vet Eliza,
Ikutegbe Victoria,
Traynor Victoria,
Taylor Leanne,
Michielin Nicole
Publication year - 2019
Publication title -
australasian journal on ageing
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.63
H-Index - 34
eISSN - 1741-6612
pISSN - 1440-6381
DOI - 10.1111/ajag.12648
Subject(s) - assistive technology , focus group , sample (material) , assisted living , psychology , computer science , gerontology , medicine , human–computer interaction , business , marketing , chemistry , chromatography
Objective To understand mobility issues not adequately serviced by assistive technology (AT). Methods A two‐stage mixed‐methods research project that forms the basis of future AT design and manufacture. Stage 1: a focus group comprising 46 participants (people aged 55 years or older with mobility issue/s) and their support networks. Stage 2: a sample of 413 people over 55 completed a purpose‐designed survey informed by stage 1, regarding mobility issues and perceived desirability of suggested AT mobility aids. Results Two core themes emerged: (a) functionality issues relating to existing AT designs and (b) identified mobility issues encountered during activities of daily living that could potentially be resolved by developing new AT . Importance was placed on certain features of AT mobility aids with cost, transportability and aesthetics being primary issues. Conclusion Consulting end‐users and their networks ensures valuable insight into how future AT can better address and target mobility needs.