Design thinking to create product innovations for improved health of the aging population in Thailand

Abstract

The presented research applies a design thinking framework intended to gain meaningful insights about the thoughts, attitudes, and emotions towards exercise and technology within the Thai aging population. A cross-section of 80 elderly in Thailand will be selected to match the nation’s demographic profile and serve as a paradigm for other emerging economies in the APAC region. The study uses in-depth interviews, focus groups, and observational analysis to guide the creative process of developing integrated product/technology concepts to test with the participants. The elderly population is segmented based on three main criteria to produce an interchangeable system: (1) physical capabilities, (2) financial situation, and (3) technological understanding. The research will develop various modular/technology platform concepts with low, medium, and high-tech solutions to meet the needs of the elderly segment.