Abstract
Many older adults are increasingly socially isolated as they age, which is detrimental to their overall health and wellbeing, while retirement communities often promote passive forms of leisure that do not contribute to social relationships, or feelings of self-esteem and purpose. Museum programing is proven to provide significant social and health benefits for this population, however access to such programs widely varies due to physical barriers, socioeconomic status, and geographic location. Designers have the opportunity to rethink ‘leisure’ and bridge the gap between museums and isolated older adults. Designers can transform unused spaces in retirement communities into inclusive environments that empower residents to be more engaged in active leisure and lead healthier and more social lives. Using the theoretical framework of co-design, this thesis proposes a set of criteria for how to design portable multi-sensory interactive tools that bring the museum experience to the retirement communities, and support learning and social opportunities for older adults.
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
2021 Special Focus: Towards a (Design) New Deal
KEYWORDS
Heathy Aging, Inclusive Design, Co-Design, Design Research, Wellbeing
