Design for ageing population: Investigating in prevalent progressive disease-Osteoarthritis (researc

Through a semi-structured interview conducted before the research, it was found that most of the adults age over 65 have come across problems with mobility and dexterity to some extent. Cause of the problems can be injuries, inconsiderate designs and progressive disease.

Objective of the research is to investigate further into the negative effects arthritis has in everyday life as arthritis had a major impact on daily life on the way of performing activities. It also strongly influenced sufferers’ mood and social life. (Lütze, 2007)

Most common types of arthritis are Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) and Osteoarthritis (OA). 400,000 People are suffering from RA and 8.75 million people are suffering from OA in the UK (UK Arthritis Research, 2007)

‘Strategies for the whole population are needed to reduce the enormous impact on the quality of life of individuals and the socio-economic impact on society related to OA.’ (J.W.J. Bijlsma, K.Knahr, 2007)

For this reason, this research will look into how does OA is affecting daily life of older adults and how to make their lives more enjoyable.