Changes in medicine, education, and technology have led to a marked increase in life expectancy. Most people now live longer, which, in addition to dropping birth rates, leads to ageing societies with higher proportions of active years. This trend applies to many Western countries, in which there have been an observed increase in age-related physical limitations, such as visual and/or other sensory impairments, and a decrease in physical strength in older adults. These limitations mean that various daily activities and environmental conditions are becoming increasingly complex and difficult for older adults. The physical ageing process and its effects are therefore particularly important from medical, economic, and social perspectives. Although an ageing population can pose numerous challenges to society, it also offers significant opportunities to re-engineer the environment and education to accommodate shifting demographics. The need for insights into older adults’ experiences is urgent. Use of an age simulation suit allows users to experience the physical limitations experienced by older adults. This simulation aid can positively influence one’s perspective of the behaviour and needs of older adults. These results may also broaden the perspectives of those who have a direct or indirect relationship with older adults through increased empathy.

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Age Simulation Suits—The First Step in Creating Empathy und Understanding for the Elderly

  • Andreas Lauenroth,
  • Stephan Schulze,
  • Birgit Teichmann,
  • Kevin Laudner,
  • Karl-Stefan Delank,
  • René Schwesig

摘要

Changes in medicine, education, and technology have led to a marked increase in life expectancy. Most people now live longer, which, in addition to dropping birth rates, leads to ageing societies with higher proportions of active years. This trend applies to many Western countries, in which there have been an observed increase in age-related physical limitations, such as visual and/or other sensory impairments, and a decrease in physical strength in older adults. These limitations mean that various daily activities and environmental conditions are becoming increasingly complex and difficult for older adults. The physical ageing process and its effects are therefore particularly important from medical, economic, and social perspectives. Although an ageing population can pose numerous challenges to society, it also offers significant opportunities to re-engineer the environment and education to accommodate shifting demographics. The need for insights into older adults’ experiences is urgent. Use of an age simulation suit allows users to experience the physical limitations experienced by older adults. This simulation aid can positively influence one’s perspective of the behaviour and needs of older adults. These results may also broaden the perspectives of those who have a direct or indirect relationship with older adults through increased empathy.