Wearable sensors enable the assessment of multiple parameters and this information can be used to prevent falls and manage chronic diseases.
As these devices are close to one’s body, it is important that the devices are comfortable and easy to use. Since older adults are a major beneficiary user group regarding these devices, it is necessary to bear in mind physical, ergonomics, psychological and usability constrains, so that a new solution addressing all these aspects can be created. This is the purpose of a Master Thesis/Fraunhofer’s project named Design of wearable sensing devices. Seniors of COLABORAR were called to participate by trying out many commercially available devices and by sharing their preferences, enabling researchers to implement participatory design methods.
In the end, researchers will propose a new wearable device that matches the needs and preferences of older adults, supporting independence and safety at the same time.