DEVELOPING THE INNOVATIVE BODY SUPPORT DEVICES FOR THE ELDERLY WITH FAMILY PARTICIPATION

Abstract This research was a research and development. The objectives were to study 1) the problems and needs of innovations to assist mobility of the elderly in Chachoengsao Province, 2) develop innovations to assist mobility of the elderly in Chachoengsao Province, 3) trial the innovations to assist mobility of the elderly in Chachoengsao Province, and 4) evaluate the use of innovations to assist mobility of the elderly in Chachoengsao Province. The sample group consisted ofed13 elderly people in Nong Naen Subdistrict, Chachoengsao Province. The tools used were questionnaires, assessment forms, and equipment to help lift and support the elderly. The experiment was trial. Data were analyzed using frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation. The results of the study revealed that 100 percent of the elderly were female, had a higher-than-normal weight and height, were married, and most had completed primary school. They had chronic back pain in their last health check-up within the past year and were not related to working with vibrating machinery. Overall, environmental factors affecting pain and stiffness were at a high-risk level. Most body movements needed to be urgently improved. Therefore, a lifting device was developed using ergonomic principles. The data were obtained from interviews and from studying principles and concepts that were consistent with the problems and needs of the elderly. It was tested with the elderly and further developed according to the recommendations. After testing the innovative lifting device for the elderly, participants were very satisfied and suggested an innovative lifting device assisting the elderly stand up and support themselves better. In using this innovation, elderly people who need to use lifting devices in their daily lives should be selected and the device should be used continuously for at least one week to see clear changes. It is hoped that this will be a guideline for developing new knowledge and extending it to improve the quality of life of the elderly with effective lifting devices.