F2008-02-013
Ergonomic Concepts for 3rd Age
Ergonomic Concepts for 3rd Age
H.J. Lindner, W. Koch
Ford Forschungszentrum Aachen GmbH
More than 30 million "Seniors" above 50 are the "Kings" among the customers. Nowadays half of the financial assets are on the accounts of the 50+ generation and our society is getting older at high speed. The consumer behaviour of the generation 50+ will decide the future of many companies. The designer of these companies (mostly younger people) in most cases do not understand the mindset of the older generation and their specific physical/biological requirements. Senior citizens are of growing importance as a purchaser group: 28 percent of new car buyers in 2004 were over 60 years old, whereas only 7 percent were jounger than 30 years. This older group value German cars, and an above average proportion of them buy models in the premium sector. For example every third Porsche has been sold to a "Turbo Senior" of an average age of 57 years. For a better customer orientation we need to address especially those design parameters which are influenced by physiological changes with the age:
. Anatomical changes concerning bones, joints, muscles, skin and cardiovascular system . Sensory changes with age are discussed like: vision, hearing, touch, balance, smell . Perceptional, cognitive and psychological changes like reaction time, movement executing, display and control interaction, visual search, divided attention, decision making, learning and memory, and attitudes
Results (customer wants and needs) for ergonomic concept for 3rd age: Good safety features are expected as essential. Features to meet the needs of 3rd age car user affect different areas like visibility, manoeuvring, ingress/egress, access, seat comfort, displays, controls and basic maintenance. This will be demonstrated.
Conclusion Health aspects play a more and more important role in future cars. We do not need special cars for older customers but good and exciting cars with perfect ergonomic design for all users.
The presentation includes: . Economic/demographic overview about the situation . Medical aspects and results . Description of research tools (3rd age suit, CAD model etc.) . Recommendations for 3rd age ergonomic concepts.