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I agree! That's why I moved to a C***** gym--Not trying to plug a particular gym but at the one I attend they seem to work with an older group of women. We help one another out--and up off the floor if necessary--and no machines need to be reset each time.
I have also found myself pulling the price tags off lower shelves in stores so I can see the price. Unfortunately, I still have to just about put my nose on the glass of the fish counter to see how much it is per pound!
Hi Margaret,
You bring up some really good points. So what do we do? I'm now in the "boomer" group and while I'm not suffering from arthritis or similar, I do see a value in improving the design and overall useability of gym equipment because there is a need and there will be a need for me soon enough. I think Nissan is really onto something with their 'aging suit.' My hunch is designers are designing for only young and healthy folks who have more disposable income to purchase and use this equipment. My question is, what do we do? How can we act collectively and proactively to see your ideas move forward?
Thank you for addressing this, it's something I never would have thought of but again, these are very good and valuable points. Now let's see what we can do about it...
Good questions, Lisa!Β
For me, the obvious first step in creating collective change involves awareness. Nothing changes unless people identify a need for change and make the argument(s) for it in public spaces where others can listen, refine or expand the arguments, and discuss ways to move forward. Speak up! Speak out! Join in!
In many instances, the market itself will spark a radical design innovation. If many people can't use or don't like your product, social media will gear up its complaint network. Your product won't sell, and your young engineers will be forced back to their drawing boards, perhaps remembering to test their new models on the disgruntled populations.
I plan to write more about the need for design changes throughout our social/economic/political fabric, not only to accomodate our aging population, but also to address problems in broad arenas such as professional healthcare, the food system, environmental conservation, workplace flexibility, and teaching/learning.
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