An appraisal of a selection of products currently available to older consumers

ICE Ergonomics Ltd was commissioned to carry out an ergonomics appraisal of a selection of products for elderly people. The products chosen were 28 non-prescription items which were commercially available to the general public through retail outlets and marketed as aids to daily living for older members of the population. The survey included analysis of accident data from the Home Accident Surveillance System (HASS), and an expert appraisal of the products, taking into account safety, function and quality. The findings showed that many of these products were inappropriate or inadequate to perform the tasks for which they were intended. Some were of poor quality and could introduce hazards to a home environment. The paper highlights some of the products that were found to be unsuitable for older consumers. A list of references and ICE reports used during the study is given in the bibliography at the end of the paper.