Design for All

At last – someone designing for older people

For years I’ve been complaining about the visuals of equipment for older people. We are, at last, seeing companies designing products that are both functional and beautiful.

The Zeal walker is designed by F1 engineers

One of the things that traditionally put people off future-proofing their homes has been the ugly design of products for older people. Slowly, but surely, we are seeing products that marry form and function. I’m just amazed that it has taken this long to see a change.

Many years ago I watched this video and it still comes to mind whenever I see ugly, utilitarian equipment for older people. Happily, there are now companies who are addressing this issue and creating products that are both useful and well-designed from an aesthetic point of view. For example, Invisible Creations blend the practicality of grab bars with good-looking design – www.invisiblecreations.co.uk. Zeal is another company doing the same thing, and have brought out their cool, funky walker – a product that I’m sure Don would be pleased to see – www.zeal-lifestyle.com.

Why it has taken so long for people to address this issue, I don’t know. But I’m glad they are.