The first year of this two-year study sought to address the challenges that older and less able people face when showering. Hansgrohe, the German industry partner, were enthusiastic about its outcomes co-funded a further year’s work and requested Wagstaff to extend the scope of the study to include the bathing as well as the shower environment.
The concepts that emerged during the first study, included a warm air drier, showerhead soap dispenser and ‘recliner’ support, with magnetic and tap-tiles activated by hand pressure. In addition to these, the first year of the project concluded with a publication for Hansgrohe entitled ‘WaterFall’ which served as a tool to educate their staff and suppliers about the benefits of inclusive design.
The product concepts resulted from research activities involving a lead user group drawn from the respondents of 100 questionnaires devised by Wagstaff. The second year of the project sought to widen participation within the industry partner organisation. Insights generated by the user forum in the UK and an inclusive design workshop held for senior managers in Germany, were translated by Wagstaff into a set of inclusive design guidelines.
The study culminated in the generation of further concepts such as a continuous prefabricated ribbon that would form an integrated total bathroom environment. A short video documentary was also produced and a subsequent corporate presentation and statistical report combined to sustain the inclusive design focus within Hansgrohe on inclusive design over the long term. This case study demonstrates that an extended study of this kind can capture the imagination of the industry partner and help influence and direct corporate company strategy relating to the over 50s.
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Over 50s, showering difficulties, bathing environment, inclusive design concepts, corporate strategy
