Towards a design tool for visualizing the functional demand placed on older adults by everyday living tasks

Macdonald, A. and Louden, D. and Rowe, P.J. and Samuel, D. and Hood, V.L. and Nicol, A.C. and Grealy, M.A. and Conway, B.A. (2007) Towards a design tool for visualizing the functional demand placed on older adults by everyday living tasks. Universal Access in the Information Society, 6 (2). pp. 137-144. ISSN 1615-5289 (http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s10209-007-0078-8)

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Abstract

This paper discusses the development of a design tool using data calculated from the biomechanical functional demand on joints in older adults during activities of daily living, portrayed using a visual 'traffic-light' system. Whole body movements of 84 older adults were analysed using a 3D motion capture system and reaction forces were measured by force platforms, and translated into a 3D software model. Although originally intended as a tool for designers, the early evaluation of this method of visualizing the data suggests that it may be of value across those involved in the professional care of older adults.