The Conceptual Development of a Multifunctional Stepladder for Older People and Caregivers

Stepladders are compact, foldable ladders with flat steps and a platform. Despite all the research and design efforts, there are still limitations in terms of the multifunctionality, usability and simplicity of stepladders and related variants. By combining ideas, features and functions from patent...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:International journal of environmental research and public health 2022-11, Vol.19 (21), p.14399
Main Authors: Gan, Kah Wei, Ng, Poh Kiat, Liew, Kia Wai, Ng, Yu Jin, Yeow, Jian Ai
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Aged
Caregivers
Design
Environmental impact
Exercise
Furniture
Homeowners
Households
Humans
Injuries
Inventions
Inventors
Ladders
Medical records
Nursing Homes
Older people
Prototyping
Usability
Walkers
Wheelchairs
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Summary:Stepladders are compact, foldable ladders with flat steps and a platform. Despite all the research and design efforts, there are still limitations in terms of the multifunctionality, usability and simplicity of stepladders and related variants. By combining ideas, features and functions from patent literature, existing products and scientific journals, this study aims to conceptualise a multifunctional stepladder for improved usability. Five concepts are created, which are screened and evaluated against a set of criteria to select the best concept for improved usability, divided into three categories: simplicity, effectiveness and efficiency. The result is a versatile invention that functions as a stepladder, walker, wheelchair and Pilates chair, suitable for older people and caregivers in nursing homes. It allows medical records or supplies to be retrieved from high places without the need for inappropriate aids. The invention can replace wheelchairs and walkers and converts into a Pilates chair to provide a mobile exercise option for older people. The concept offers older people flexibility and independence in terms of mobility and healthcare, while saving space in the nursing home. Further design studies, prototyping and testing are needed before this idea can go into production.
ISSN:1660-4601
1661-7827
1660-4601
DOI:10.3390/ijerph192114399