Human Factors and Ergonomics Considerations for Aging-in-Place Part 1: The Intersection of Users and Tasks

Abstract

This article is part 1 of a two-part series. The term aging-in-place has been increasingly used over the past 40 years to describe the process of remaining in one’s home. In attempt to advance the discussion on the future of aging-in-place, this feature series provides an overview of the grand challenges to aging-in-place with an emphasis on human factors and ergonomics considerations. Part 1 will discuss a variety of ways to conceptualize “aging,” and describe tasks related to healthy aging into three categories: home maintenance, health management, and socialization.