Enhancing the Life of the Elderly - An Application of Design Thinking

Design thinking is a mindset to find a solution for a real need using an iterative method. Its fundamental philosophy is to empathize and reframe a problem so that one can innovate faster using systematic methods. In this study, we illustrate the use of design thinking to enhance the life of older people. A total of forty students from two universities spent 2 days talking and playing with senior citizens to evaluate and understand their daily activities, likes and dislikes. Based on observations, systematic interviews, and storytelling, a series of innovative products were designed. In this manuscript, two of them will be described. The first was an entertainment system called Memo-TV for those with short-term memory loss and the second, Shadow Play, was a means to enhance their upper body strength using an innovative and interactive game.