A Redesigned Safe Walking aid for Aging HIV Patients

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to describe the perception of aging HIV patients living with morbidities affecting their regular walking and offering a product-based solution designed based on interaction with respondents. This walking stick is proposed functional design for a glow light walking stick for aging HIV patients for which perception was collected through structured questionnaire. The study population included HIV patients affected by accelerated aging and their primary caregivers. Primary data was collected through structure questionnaire and interviews with focus group. Product design was shown to all respondents. Questionnaire was distributed to 315 respondents out of which 201 responses were found valid for the study. Interviews were conducted in 10 focus groups of 5 each separately for collecting qualitative data on proposed product design. Out of 50 interviews, 47 responses were found valid for inclusion in the study. The data analysis presented various challenges described by respondents while walking as major issues in the mobility. Analysis of the results of the survey and discussions showed a positive perception about the proposed design that facilitates aging patients with HIV to go out for a walk or want to move around freely, darker stretch ways and lack of lighting, or access to light switches act as a hurdle to their free and safe movement. The design patent was also filed during the research. This glow light walking stick (patent filed application no. 356250-001) will provide a safe and free environment to elderly to move and facilitate the caregivers as well.