How might Kohler empower aging consumers to maintain their independence for as long as possible?
The #1 reason loved ones are put in nursing homes or assisted living is because they can no longer safely bathe themselves. As the enormous Baby Boomer generation is starting enter their retirement years, they are taking their rebellious spirit with them. They have a very different idea about what it means to grow old compared to any prior any generation.
Kohler wanted to be prepared with a suite of bathroom products that addressed the specific physical and psychological needs of these consumers. But first, they needed to understand the mindset that was driving these consumers.
Approach
The main focus of research was on the consumer. The team recruited participants from across the country at various life stages, from healthy, soon-to-be retirees to those who have moved to nursing homes for needed assistance
I lead contextual interviews as well as demonstration of self care tasks in and out of the bathroom (all while clothed!. Post-visit, the participants were set up for diary studies for them to track their needs for assistance, and associated feelings, with various tasks over a couple months.
The team also visited a number of construction sites, home remodels, and nursing homes to understand the needs from those actively involved in the set-up and maintenance of age-in-place and assistive care.
After market products usually look clinical
industrial
or even precarious
Long term solutions might require full remodel
Current solution for those who can no longer safely step over bath threshold
Walk-in baths provide a solution but introduce long waiting times and odd sizes for replacing existing baths
Approach
The main focus of research was on the consumer. The team recruited participants from across the country at various life stages, from healthy, soon-to-be retirees to those who have moved into nursing homes for needed assistance.
I lead contextual interviews as well as demonstration of self care tasks in and out of the bathroom (all while clothed!. Post-visit, the participants were set up for diary studies for them to track their needs for assistance, and associated feelings, with various tasks over a couple months.
The team also visited a number of construction sites, home remodels, and nursing homes to understand the needs from those actively involved in the set-up and maintenance of age-in-place and assistive care.
Insights
Changes are typically made reactively after a critical health scare.
My home is still a place for family and good memories
Bathing also has a strict definition to those that enjoy baths; it requires reclining. Walk-in baths forcing users into an upright position are a poor substitute for what they once enjoyed.