An Action Research Study: Co-Designing and Testing a Low-Cost Adaptive Bathing Kit for Older Adults in Durban's Informal Settlements

This study addresses a current research gap in Medicine concerning Testing a low-cost adaptive equipment kit for improving bathing independence in older adults living in informal settlements in Durban, South Africa in South Africa. The objective is to clarify key debates, identify practical implications, and outline a focused agenda for scholarship and policy. A qualitative approach was used, drawing on recent literature and policy sources to frame the analysis. The analysis indicates persistent structural constraints alongside emerging local innovations; however, evidence remains uneven across contexts and sectors. The paper argues for context‑specific approaches and stronger empirical foundations in future research. Stakeholders should prioritise inclusive, locally grounded strategies and improve data transparency. Testing a low-cost adaptive equipment kit for improving bathing independence in older adults living in informal settlements in Durban, South Africa, South Africa, Africa, Medicine, action research This structured abstract provides a standardised summary to support rapid screening, indexing, and assessment of scholarly contribution.