RESUMO
An ergonomic approach could improve the quality of life and activities in daily living. Gerontechnology reduces the effects of age-related impairments with technological devices and particular design for the home-environment. Physiological decline with increasing age renders the daily activities at home more difficult. This paper highlights some "common sense" and specific design suggestions in the entrance and kitchen, aimed to increase the self-sufficiency of elderly people. We suggest that gerontechnology may have a particular role in the improvement of comfort and safety for aged people.
Assuntos
Atividades Cotidianas , Planejamento Ambiental , Ergonomia , Idoso Fragilizado , Qualidade de Vida , Idoso , Envelhecimento/fisiologia , Geriatria , Humanos , Movimento/fisiologia , Postura/fisiologia , TecnologiaRESUMO
Gerontology is the scientific study of the ageing process and special problems of aged people. Ergonomics is an applied science for optimizing performance and productivity and reducing the risks of injury, discomfort and illness. Gerontechnology is concerned with fundamental and applied research on the complex interaction of elderly people with technological products and the built environment. It has the potential to improve the capability of people confronted by the challenges of ageing. We suggest that gerontechnology may have a particular role in relation to the reduction of visual acuity, and can improve the comfort and safety of older people.
