The potential impact of design changes on independent living in old age

Abstract

We attempted to quantify the potential impact of design changes on the ability of older people to live independently, as defined by the performance of instrumental activities of daily living. Data from the Disability Follow-Up Survey were obtained for analysis, which recruited a sample of 3,710 participants aged 65 years or over from Great Britain. Participants completed a comprehensive interview on functional status in 1996/97. Adjusted attributable fractions were estimated from logistic regression models. Between 43% and 64% of the difficulties with instrumental activities of daily living were attributable to motor limitations. Activities performed outside the home (shopping) had less potential for improvement than activities performed within the home (cooking, housework, and laundering). The attributable fractions were greatest for housework in men and for cooking in women. Our estimates shed light on the potential impact of design changes on the ability of older people to perform activities necessary for independent living, and they are in line with what we expected to find based on the literature. Research on design and independent living in old age should be encouraged and expanded.