Article

This study measured the postures of older people during cooking and laundry. A
sample of men and women aged 75+ years (n=27) was recruited and observed in a
home-like environment. Postures were recorded with a measurement system in an
objective and detailed manner. The participants were videotaped to be able to see
where 'critical' postures occurred, as defined by a trunk inclination of >/=60
degrees . Analysis of data was facilitated by specially developed software.
Critical postures accounted for 3% of cooking and 10% of laundry, occurring
primarily during retrieving from and putting in lower cabinets, the refrigerator,
laundry basket or washing machine as well as disposing into the waste bin. These
tasks involve a great variation in postural changes and pose a particular risk to
older people. The results suggest that the use of stressful postures may decrease
efficiency and increase fatigue, eventually leading to difficulties with daily
activities. The specific tasks identified during which critical postures occurred
should be targeted by designers in order to improve the activities. A few
examples are given of how better design can reduce or eliminate some of the
postural constraints.
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Langue : ANGLAIS