Development of Prototype of an Emergency Alarm and Alert Walker Based on Project-Based Learning Integrating Design Thinking Process and Inter-Professional Education to Promote Self-Confidence of Older adults with Mobility Constraints Living Alone in the Community

Abstract

The aim of this research and development study was to develop a prototype of an emergency alarm and alert walker (EAAW) for older adults using the design thinking model. Thirty older adults with movement impairment using a walker and 30 caregivers were purposively selected as the participants for the study. Research tools included 1) the prototype of the EAAW for older adults, 2) usability scales, 3) self-confidence scales, 4) satisfaction scales for older adults, and 5) satisfaction scales for caregivers. Content Value Indexes (CVIs) of five tools were 1.00, .79, .75, .80, and .86 respectively, and their Cronbach’s alpha reliability values were .78, .77, .88, and .89 respectively. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and one sample t-tests. The results from the older adults showed that, after using the EAAW, 1) the mean scores on the usability of the EAAW scales were higher, at high levels (3.50) (p <.001); 2) the mean scores on the self-confidence scales of older adults living alone were, at high levels (3.50) (p <.001); 3) the mean scores on the satisfaction scales of older adults were higher, at high levels (3.50) (p <.001); and 4) the mean scores on the satisfaction scales of caregivers using EAAW were higher,  at high levels (3.50) (p <.001) than the scores prior to using the EAAW. Therefore, development of the prototype of the EAAW using the design thinking model promoted self-confidence of older adults with movement impairment living alone in the community.