Assistive technology for older adults: psychological and socio-emotional design requirements

Abstract

The EU-funded multi-disciplinary DALi (Devices for Assisted Living) project aims to develop a semi-autonomous, intelligent mobility aid for older adults, which supports navigation in crowded and unstructured environments. We demonstrate the necessity to consider hitherto underexplored user-inclusive requirements which address psychological and socio-emotional needs of users. Using a qualitative methodology, including focus groups and interviews, our results showed that the design of the intelligent walker for older adults has to address issues of anticipated or experienced socio-emotional and psychological costs, including self-consciousness, pride, embarrassment, fear of being stigmatised and not wanting to admit a need. We suggest potential design strategies to increase emotional benefits and reduce psychological and emotional costs associated with use of assistive technology, thus facilitating product adoption.