APPROPRIATE DESIGN TO PROMOTE SELF-ESTEEM IN ELDERLY POPULATION

Abstract

This article aims to study and collect the data of universal design principles to promote quality of life of elderly, and to be the guidelines to improve the potential of manufacturers and their local products. Qualitative research method was applied to conduct this research paper, in which data was collected from the samples of 100 elderly male and female populations in Nakhon Ratchasima. The simple sampling method is utilized to determine the sample size, at the tolerance of 10 according to Taro Yamane’s formula. Tools for the data collection include survey on the satisfaction of participants, which was implemented in 2 phases: 1) Online discussion and focus group on the production design for health product for elderly called “Gaow Goods: self-care for our age”; and 2) the evaluation of satisfaction. The results of the study revealed that the samples were interested in crayon drawing sets, bags, hats, watercolor painting sets, knitted balls, textile design kits, and hand pillows. None of the samples were interested in shoe design. The results can be categorized into 3 topics which are 1) physical restriction; 2) duration of development, and 3) personal preferences. Additionally, the satisfaction survey results from the online discussion revealed that: 1) the attractiveness and benefits for participants are at a high level (=4.00); 2) benefits after participating in the activities are at a very high level (=5.00); 3. the satisfaction towards activities arranged via LINE application and YouTube is at a very high level (=5.00); 4. the satisfaction towards instructors during the lectures and Q&A session is at a very high level (=5.00), and 5. the satisfaction towards the duration of activity is at a high level (=4.00).