Understanding interactivity for the strength-training needs of the elderly at nursing homes in Indonesia

Regular exercise has been shown to be beneficial for the elderly. However, the prevalence of the elderly doing exercise is low, and muscle-strengthening exercise is even lower. Therefore, physical inactivity has been reported as a significant health problem worldwide. Many assistive devices have been developed to overcome the problems of lack of engagement. This study explores opinions from the elderly regarding an acceptable and affordable technology-based design that focuses on the strength training specific to the elderly in two middle-class nursing homes in Indonesia. This paper presents qualitative findings from 37 participants who are part of an ongoing study. The results of this study show that when creating an interactive device for the elderly, easy procedures, a small lightweight-looking device, direct rewards, and instructor companionship should become the main considerations.