ABSTRACT

Older people make up an increasing percentage of the world population. A consequence of becoming older is a decrease in various functional abilities, such as hearing, vision, and mobility. Younger people may also have functional impairments, whether from birth or as a result of accident or illness. In a society that recognizes the importance of equal opportunities, it follows that products, services, workplaces, and environments should be accessible to a wide variety of users and thus must be designed to take into account a range of user needs, including those of older people and people with disabilities.