TECHNOLOGY FOR SENIORS LIVING ENVIRONMENT - DIRECTIONS FOR PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT

In May 1991, approximately 40 world experts on technology and aging we re invited to Directions '91 in Winnipeg, Canada. The focus of the 3-d ay seminar was on living environments for seniors and on the research and development of products to meet the needs of an aging society. The built environment-furnishings and appliances, self-care, and leisure and recreation-was targeted in both plenary and breakout sessions. Thi s article highlights the key concerns and recommendations developed at Directions '91. The ''universal design'' concept is stressed, particu larly as it relates to our need to rethink the design of the built env ironment and the products that are currently being used by seniors see king independence and dignity in their daily living. Consideration is also given to the physiological changes that occur in the natural proc ess of aging and how these changes need to be accommodated in products designed for the living environment.