FitRight
Category: Streetscape Installation, Industrial Design
An outdoor exercise and recreational area designed for the elderly fostering physical activities and social interactions. This space aims to encourage them to step out, stay active, and improve both physical health and emotional wellbeing.
According to WHO
Physical inactivity has been identified as the fourth leading risk factor for global mortality.
Many of New York City’s parks and open spaces are predominantly designed with younger individuals in mind with elements such as steep slopes and play areas tailored for children. However, this focus on youth often overlooks the needs of the elderly population. The absence of suitable physical activity options for older adults not only has significant implications for their physical health but also contributes to social isolation, depression, and anxiety.
The Problem
In 2023, one in three adults age 50–80 reported feeling isolated in USA.
34.0
percentage
Older adults die each year due to physical inactivity according to WHO
3.30
million
Adults aged 65 and older in fair or better health who reported doing no physical activity or exercise other than their regular job.
31.2
percentage
Ideation
The ideation process involved sketching a diverse range of concepts and iterations, each contributing to the evolution of the design. Initial iterations played a crucial role in shaping the form, while the final design was inspiration from the graceful curves and dynamic movements of the human body. Guided by the design criteria of fostering a friendly and playful ambiance, it was essential to ensure that the resulting activity area is a welcoming atmosphere for elderly.
Elevations
Front
Side
Plan
The prototyping phase began with rapid prototyping techniques, progressively advancing towards refinement. Utilizing various materials, such as paper, chipboard, wood and Various 3D printing techniques. Subsequently, the final model was built in multiple pieces that were 3D printed and assembled post layering colour.
Prototypes
Materials Profile
Tubing connected with steel sheet secured using a U-clamp and Tamper proof screws
Hollow steel tubing
These infographics are designed to guide users through a comprehensive array of activities available to them. In addition to outlining the diverse range of activities, they provide valuable insights into their respective benefits, empowering users to make well-informed decisions regarding their choice of activities.
Info Graphics
Taking short breaks during workouts is essential for allowing the body to replenish energy levels and mitigate the risk of injuries. This practice is particularly crucial for older adults, who are more susceptible to wear and tear as well as injuries enhancing overall safety and well-being.
Bar support for challenging leg and back exercises
Stretching exercises with a leg support
Cylindrical tubes for hands & arms movements
Sliding cylindrical tubes that move in vertical direction for hand movement activities
Research
“Fact Sheet.” n.d. https://www.exerciseismedicine.org/assets/page_documents/EIMFactSheet_2014.pdf.
“America’s Health Rankings | AHR.” America’s Health Rankings, https://www.americashealthrankings.org/explore/measures/physical_inactivity_sr/NY. Accessed 26 Aug. 2024.
Report: Aging Population Growing Rapidly across Upstate New York. https://spectrumlocalnews.com/nys/capital-region/health/2023/09/25/report--aging-population-growing-rapidly-across-upstate-new-york. Accessed 26 Aug. 2024.
Trends in Loneliness Among Older Adults from 2018-2023 | National Poll on Healthy Aging. 13 Mar. 2023, https://www.healthyagingpoll.org/reports-more/report/trends-loneliness-among-older-adults-2018-2023.