ABSTRACT
This introduction presents an overview of key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book redresses that balance, and look beyond the changing requirements of legislation towards the business and commercial advantages that flow from an inclusive approach to design and innovation, along with the considerable social and economic benefits that come with social inclusion. It presents inclusive design as a reaction to the tendency of mass production to exclude significant groups of consumers as it developed over the twentieth century. The chapter covers recruitment, research techniques, costs and ethical considerations and is in itself a mini handbook and essential reference on the subject. It demonstrates how a more holistic approach built around enabling support rather than remote monitoring can deliver real benefits to older people. The chapter concludes with an influence of the Royal Society for encouragement of Arts, Manufactures and Commerce, through its Student Design Awards programmes and more recent Design Directions competition.
