Assistive device for independent positioning

Abstract: The SHL Healthcare department manufactures rehabilitation equipment for the
hospital and home healthcare such as nursing beds, pressure reducing
mattresses and hoists. An investigation and need finding concerning home
health care has been initiated with the aim to develop new assistive
devices fitting to the elderly homes. This Master thesis is part of that
investigation project called Remaining Home.

This thesis is principally based on the product development where the goal
is to enhance elderly people’s activities by developing a secure and
functional positioning- and rising assistive device which is adjusted
to “common beds”. The assistive device should encourage and support
activities such as turning and sitting up in bed. The product should have
an obvious function and place in people’s homes and be independent type of
bed and bedroom. The support should not be associated with vulnerability
and should have a design and function for all. The user should be able to
use the support on his/her own.

The target groups are elderly over the age of 80 years living at home and
upper body is functional. The function and feeling of the product is going
to be fitted to the needs of the target group but the design should also
create an interest for younger people. After comprehensive investigation
about customer needs and marketing analysis the outcome of the project
result is presented as an “activity lamp”. This multifunctional lamp has
three major functions: i) to assist turning and sitting up in bed, ii) to
encourage activity and iii) to give light.