NICA | Exploring the Future of Mobility and Gait in China
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Invisible Inclusivity Key Considerations One-Touch Solutions
All In The Details
Functional Forms
Thinking beyond apps and digital interfaces, how might you simplify interactions with the physical products and services you provide to make them more inclusive for older adults?
Consider adopting a design approach which prioritises simplification in both form and function.
Challenge your team’s currently held assumptions/ stereotypes in relation to what older adults can and can’t do.
Ensure any product adaptations you make with older adults in mind go beyond surface level changes.
Are there any smaller components of your product or service that you have overlooked in the design process? Could you improve on a locking mechanism or material texture which enhances overall usability?
Consider developing techniques to monitor the use of features in your product or service, to help you prioritise functionality.
How might you leverage sound to deliver more than warning sounds or alerts? Could you design a portfolio of healthy sounds for your product or service?
Be mindful that accessibility adaptations don’t alienate older adults. Try to minimise the ‘their mode’ ‘your mode’ model currently adopted.
Consider opting for more natural materials for your mobility solution, woods, fabrics etc.
Could you flip the current accessibility model for digital technology on its head? Making standard modes a toggle to switch on instead of the accessibility mode?
Remember that older adults can be as style and quality focused as younger adults
Question the current form of your product and whether it’s optimal for delivering a better mobility experience. How might you leverage new material innovations to achieve new form factors? Can you take inspiration from other industries such as fashion?
