Elderly

ANSWER KEY

Section A: Design Questions

Total marks: 26

Theme: Designing for an Ageing Population

Question 1

(a) Identify a specific problem faced by an ageing person at home that you intend to solve with your design. [2]

• Possible Answer: A specific problem is the difficulty elderly individuals face when getting up from a low-seated armchair or sofa due to reduced muscle strength and joint stiffness, which can lead to a risk of falls.

(b) Propose two different research methods you would use to gather information about this problem. [2]

• Possible Answer:

  • Observation: Observe elderly individuals in a community centre or their own homes to see how they struggle to get up from different types of seating, noting their body movements and any compensatory actions.

  • Interviews/Surveys: Conduct interviews with elderly individuals and their caregivers to understand their personal experiences, frustrations, and what they look for in supportive furniture.

(c) Justify why one of your chosen research methods is suitable for this design project. [1]

• Possible Answer: Interviews are suitable because they provide direct, personal accounts of the users' needs and frustrations, offering a deeper understanding of the emotional and physical challenges that a designer can then address.

Question 2

(a) Based on your identified problem, create a pictorial sketch of two different design concepts to solve it. Ensure your sketches are clear and well-proportioned. [4]

• (Note: Students are expected to provide sketches here. The description below outlines the expected content of the sketches.)

  • Concept 1: The Assisted-Lift Seat Cushion: A standalone cushion with a built-in mechanical or spring-loaded lift mechanism. When the user leans forward, the cushion gently pushes up to assist them in standing. The mechanism is controlled by a simple lever.

  • Concept 2: The Ergonomic Chair with Support Rails: A full armchair with a slightly higher seat height and a forward-sloping seat angle. Integrated, sturdy armrests extend forward, acting as support rails for the user to push off from.

(b) For each of your two concepts in (a), explain how it addresses the user's needs and the identified problem. [4]

• Possible Answer:

  • Concept 1: The assisted-lift mechanism directly addresses the problem of reduced muscle strength by providing mechanical assistance to help the user stand, reducing the physical strain on their knees and hips.

  • Concept 2: The higher seat height and integrated support rails work together to solve the problem of difficulty standing. The higher seat reduces the distance and effort required to stand up, while the robust armrests provide a stable and secure point of leverage for the user.

Question 3

(a) Choose one of your concepts from Question 2 and describe a key functional feature that makes it suitable for an ageing person. [2]

• Possible Answer (based on Concept 2): A key functional feature is the extra-wide and padded armrests that provide a comfortable and stable surface for the user to grip and push themselves up. The padding ensures comfort and reduces pressure on the hands and wrists.

(b) Identify two different materials you would use for the key parts of your refined design. [2]

• Possible Answer:

  • Frame/Structural Parts: High-strength aluminium alloy.

  • Upholstery/Seat: High-density foam with a waterproof, fabric covering.

(c) Justify your choice of these two materials based on their properties and suitability for the intended purpose and user group. [4]

• Possible Answer:

  • High-strength aluminium alloy is ideal for the frame because of its excellent strength-to-weight ratio, making the chair sturdy and safe while remaining light enough to be moved. It is also corrosion-resistant and durable, ensuring the product's longevity.

  • High-density foam is used for the seat for its comfort and support, which is crucial for individuals who may sit for long periods. The waterproof fabric covering is practical and hygienic, as it is easy to clean and maintain, addressing a key concern for elderly users and their caregivers.

Question 4

(a) Create a detailed orthographic projection of your refined design. You must include a front view, a side view, and a plan view. [2]

• (Note: Students are expected to provide an orthographic drawing. The answer should be a well-drawn technical drawing with clear projection lines.)

(b) Add at least two key dimensions to your drawing in 4(a). [2]

• (Note: Students are expected to add dimensions to their drawing.)

• Possible Answer: Dimensions should include the seat height and the width of the chair.

(c) Explain how the overall aesthetics and ergonomics of your final design would appeal to an ageing user. [3]

• Possible Answer:

  • Aesthetics: The design has a simple, non-intrusive aesthetic with a warm and neutral colour palette, allowing it to blend seamlessly into various home environments. This avoids the "hospital furniture" look, which can be off-putting to elderly users.

  • Ergonomics: The chair is designed with a focus on user comfort and safety. The seat height, armrest position, and sturdy structure are all ergonomically optimized to reduce physical strain and promote a sense of security and independence for the user.