Exploring the Potential for Developing a Smart Pedestrian Navigation System for the ElderlycMarket

Abstract

The quality of life of the ageing population is currently a major issue. To promote a more active lifestyle for the elderly, this paper proposes a solution with the use of Information and Communication Technology (ICT). This is done by implementing a Smart Pedestrian Navigation system that will promote walking amongst senior people. The proposed system will achieve this by providing the most suitable walking routes for elderly users based on their needs. To be able to develop and implement such a system, the pedestrian needs of the elderly must be clearly understood. To achieve this, a survey was distributed in a co-creation workshop with elderly people in Cyprus. This enabled us to gather useful information regarding the initial requirements of the such a system as well as its potential usefulness. The results of the survey indicated that elderly people would be interested in the proposed system. Further, it was found that the most important features they felt the proposed system should have, are those that provide safety and comfort in their mobility experience.