고령자를 위한 허리 보호대 디자인 개발 -선호도 및 만족도 평가를 중심으로-

Considering increasing demand for improved waist protectors for the elderly, in this study we sought to design a waist protector that reflects the body characteristics, preferences, and satisfactions of the elderly. A survey conducted to investigate elderly satisfaction with existing waist protectors, as well as their preferences in product function, design, and characteristics, found that consumers are not satisfied with current waist protector offerings and would prefer protectors that allow greater freedom to perform physical activities and that are more easily accessible. Based on the survey, we developed a guideline on function, design, and characteristics, resulting in four new waist protector designs: A and B for men, and C and D for women. Significant preference differences according to gender were reflected in the designs. For example, designs for female waist protectors focused much more on improving tightness, size, freedom of movement, and easy attachment or detachment than designs for male waist protectors did. Evaluation of satisfaction with new designs suggests that new designs meet the satisfaction criteria of elderly consumers, who express willingness to purchase and use them.