Integrating Product Innovations for the Aging Population: The Example of Exercise Technology Platforms in an Emerging Economy

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 demographic profile of the nation and to serve as a paradigm for other emerging economies in the APAC region. In-depth interviews, focus groups and observational analysis are used to guide the creative process in developing integrated product/technology concepts to test with the participants. To produce an interchangeable system, the elderly population is segmented based on three main criteria (1) physical capabilities, (2) financial situation and (3) technological understanding. The research has yielded a modular product/technology platform concepts consisting of low, medium, and high-tech solutions, to meet the needs of the elderly segments.