March 30, 2009
Power From Fabrics
An interesting article explaining researchers attempt to embed nanowires into textiles to convert motion into power through fabrics.
CES 2008 Is No Country for Old Men
Article on how some companies are taking notice of baby boomers and designing electronics designed for the needs of the aging generation.
VolunTourism.org Travel and Volunteer Opportunities
"Voluntourism" is a growing trend among baby boomers which are like vacations but with a purpose.
March 29, 2009
Aibo watches your weight
MIT made an application for the Aibo that was supposed to help track your health activities but it doesn't seem like this project was successful since the article was posted in 2005 but who knows, maybe there's someone out there using this.
The Perfect Running Pace
Article showing some of the science behind that "in-the-zone" pace during running.
Vibram Fivefingers Barefoot-Like Shoes
I found these featured in the latest ESPN magazine. Supposedly, it's the closest thing to walking barefoot out there while offering protection and additional stimulation to build strength and improve range of motion. The form is cool too.
March 28, 2009
MedNet app monitors heartbeat, transfers data to cardiologists
This is an interesting feature that AT&T is looking to pursue. I know I'm using health monitoring in my design along with a few others, so this technology/service is something to look out for.
March 25, 2009
Not Brand Loyal
According to this article baby boomer's are less brand loyal than younger generations. This is based on research conducted by TV land.
Branding to the Young…of Heart
“The boomers are particularly attractive because they tend to have free time,” and its true, they are no longer raising families, they’re retired, and lately they are very open to new experiences. Good insight into brand considerations.
Tracking threats
37 million boomers, or six out of 10, will be managing more than one chronic condition by 2030...
Health Tracker
Prevention magazine provides this tool as a way to track nutrition, activity, and mood over a period of time. It was a link suggested by the boomer 411 blog.
March 24, 2009
Age appropriate: Fashion tips for baby boomers (women specifically)
Visit msnbc.com for Breaking News, World News, and News about the Economy
Physical Activity in Aging
Behavioral Determinants of Healthy Aging: Good News for the Baby Boomer Generation
This journal article is a comprehensive look at aging well, covering aspects of physical, cognitive, and emotional (and spiritual) health. While behaviors in earlier life can serve as predictors for one's health later in life, there is evidence that there are numerous opportunities to reduce risk factors (beyond just "more exercise") throughout life, extending into middle-age and late-life.
March 22, 2009
Baby Boomers Need Health & Fitness Toys Tied Together in a Nice Simple Package
The title says it all. Short article featuring some key points made by Thomas Blackadar, founder of FitSense Technology at the Third Annual Healthcare Conference of Consumer and Healthcare Technologies in Cambridge.
Fitness Gets Funky: Beautifully Designed Dumbbells
Fitness meets fashion in some of these featured weight sets. It was interesting how Starck's came with a case. Thought I'd share since it's fitness related, I'm working on some mobile weights designed for the active boomer too.
Kinematic Models
For those of you working on anything that has moving parts may want to check out this resource that has a bunch of quick movies on linkages.
March 20, 2009
AAOS - Your Orthopaedic Connection
A good site with reference of information about different types of injuries to different parts of the body.
March 19, 2009
Targeting Tech-Savvy Seniors
A short article and a youtube video about boomers and pairing them up with the latest tech trends.
Baby boomer boarding
A short article about a women in her 40's learning how to snowboard the first time and the reasons why she started and continued in the sport.
Stress-busting travel accessories
"I realize what's gone is gone. But I still wish that modern journeys could at least be a little less stressful. Therefore, it's easy to understand why I felt truly euphoric while visiting the Travel Goods Show this month in Las Vegas."
March 18, 2009
Walking Helps Seniors Take Aging in Stride
Improve health just by walking? This study seems to indicate that this is true. It's also interesting that the study was focused on a lower income group.
US High Fashion Goes to the Dogs
Yes, the DOG is wearing Burberry. Here's a quote: "I dress my 'child' better than I do myself." This article provides more evidence for those interested that Boomers spend on those they love (dog or human). Maybe pamper is a good word...
March 15, 2009
Shift In Ways Boomers View Themselves
Short but interesting post about how Boomers, specifically women, are describing themselves as opposed to the past, potentially shaping the design and marketing of products.
Microsoft Office Labs 2019
While it's a concept based more on interfaces in 2019, it might help some of those who are considering certain technologies like touchscreens, e-displays, and general UI their designs.
Sun-Powered Self-Healing Plastic
Heres a link on an article talking about the development of plastic that can heal itself from scratches from exposure to the sun.
Running and the elderly
An article explaining the importance of running and its effects on health of elderly.
March 13, 2009
Forever Young
A little comparison between the boomer youth culture and today's youth culture... I'm sure one thing we all have in common is a cringe at the comparison of Will.i.am to Bob Dylan.... cute none the less.
For Those Who Need Help Thinking Futuristically...
...this article will give you a much needed kick in the pants! It is rather creepy to learn what this renowned futurist predicts for our near future; especially when you consider that he has rarely been wrong in the past. Decide for yourself... a must-read!
Oh, and Rolling Stone does not have the article to read on their page, so the link is a PDF.
March 12, 2009
Adidas Bounce:S
"Developed and designed exclusively for the adidas Porsche Design Sport range, the Bounce:S is a whole new cushioning experience. Using a system of metallic springs, it increases energy return and gives you a more efficient ride."
Sneakers Best, Barefoot Worst in Preventing Falls by Elderly
Article on how athletic and canvas shoes is safer for older generations in comparison to barefoot.
Does the Tech-savvy Baby Boomer Exist?
Article on why technology is ok for boomers and how their lifestyles are changing with technology. “Boomers adopt technology as they need it.”
The nursing home of the future - Baby Boomers
As baby boomers start moving into nursing homes, a lot of things are going to change. The Cave City nursing home, in Arkansas, is already building a new activity center for the incoming baby boomers. “They’ll want sandwiches, a muffin cart coming around ... (so) it’s more like home. ... They’re not going to be satisfied with coloring in a book.” Even the music is changing, as hard rock music can even be heard at the nursing home - there is only going to be more.
Canadian Boomers Are Online
In Canada at least, boomers are downloading music, dating online, and emailing more and more. From a survey of over 2,000 baby boomers, 65% email friends and family more than telephone calls, are actively on social networks and RSS feed subscriptions, and 56% admit to downloading music and listening online.
New Nike Tatical
I know a lot of you guys are working on shoes so I thought I would share this new one from Nike. Apparently this a project 4 years in the making.
March 11, 2009
Balance problems? Step into the iShoe. MIT grad student's invention could one day prevent falls
The iShoe insole would measure and analyze the pressure distribution of the patient's foot and report back to their doctor. The device could also be outfitted with an alarm that would alert family members when a fall has occurred. Lieberman is now testing the iShoe technology in a small group of patients. The current model is equipped to diagnose balance problems, but future versions could help correct such problems, by providing sensory stimulation to the feet when the wearer is off-kilter.
Siemens Pictures of the Future - Digital Assistants
Siemens publishes a bi-annual publication calls "Pictures of the Future." In it, they paint a picture of the future, where digital assistants make our lives better. "In just a few years, the number of intelligent medical assistants—programs that recognize illnesses at an early stage—will be such that they may be combined into a hybrid decision support system. Here’s how such a system might work—as told by the system itself."
Siemens Pictures of the Future - Seamless Communication
Siemens publishes a bi-annual publication calls "Pictures of the Future." In it, they paint a picture of the future using an evening dinner planning scenario to demonstrate the seamless communication methods they predict to be present in 2015. A good story for Terence!
Playing Video Games May Boost Older Brains
Older people who want to stay sharp should reconsider the notion that video games are only for lazy children and pick up a joystick themselves, a new study suggests.
While past studies have shown that playing video games has many positive benefits, ranging from improved problem-solving abilities in young people to improved operating skills in surgeons, the study in the December issue of Psychology and Aging went one step further. The research, which was not funded by the gaming industry, is the first to indicate that playing complex video games after receiving training may improve the cognitive functions that typically decline with age.
Boomers Influencing the Future of Transportation
An article that talks about the boomer generation will be changing transportation as we know it - from street signs, public transportation, to the car itself - technology for night vision, adjustable pedals, and new driving laws.
Eleksen - Touch Interface With Fabric
British company Eleksen is manufacturing flexible sensors and switches that can be integrated into everyday objects such as cell phones, teddy bears or car seats. "The textile sensors can measure how hard they are pressed and also whether moisture is present." For example, these sensors could be used in hospitals to know if incontinent patients need a bed linen replacement or if other patients have left their beds. As these sensors can be woven in all kinds of textiles, you'll soon be able to create your own clothes and applications. And as they're very robust, it will be even possible to put them in your washing machine to clean them.
Boomeritis: A New Sports Concern for Baby Boomers
These two organizations have launched an educational campaign about boomeritis, or the escalating number of sports-related injuries happening to baby boomers.
Sports Injury Prevention for Baby Boomers
This article shows a basic regimen that needs to done before you start an activity, here are some tips developed by the American Orthopedic Society for Sports Medicine and American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons that can help you exercise and play sports safely.
Top 10 Trends for Active Adult Communities in 2009
With a fresh avalanche of baby boomers sliding into senior-hood every day, there is a lot of interest in 55+ housing trends. This article provides the Top retirements list of the top 10 active adult community trends for 2009
Baby Boomer Trends in Nutrition and Health
The food industry is not prepared for the potential impact of Baby Boomers
Aging baby boomers will drive health-care innovation
The aging of the baby boomer generation will spur technological innovation and change the entire health-care system
How to avoid exercise injury for baby boomers
This site has a good info on prevention of sports injures, this info is useful for those who are doing activity related projects.
Microvision's Mobile Device Eyewear
"Mobile device eyewear, currently in the initial development phase, would combine Microvision's ultraminiature PicoP display engine with special optics that are embedded into fashionable or protective eyeglasses. The information being displayed in the eyewear optics would originate in the mobile device and arrive at the eyeglasses through a wired or wireless connection. The mobile device eyewear viewing experience could be completely see through, providing the wearer with a visual information overlay, while not losing awareness of their surroundings. Or, the viewing experience could be occluded, offering the wearer an immersive, visual experience where the wearer purposefully escapes their immediate surroundings."
e-textiles to monitor your health
"Virginia Tech (VT) researchers have been busy developing efficient e-textiles -- electronic textiles and clothing with embedded wires and sensors -- for six years now. Their computerized clothing can monitor your movements, sensing if you're walking, running, standing, or sitting down. Of course, this kind of clothing has a wide range of applications. The Hokie Suit, which has existed for 3 years, will lead to other garments which could measure when you're about to fall and your location, heart rate, blood pressure, temperature and a variety of other statistics."
Smart and Interactive Textile Design
Lena Berglin, a Swedish PhD student who is creating multifunctional textiles based on smart materials. She already has developed an intelligent glove, capable of transmitting communication, and several garments for health monitoring including a tanktop, a cardigan and a belt that measure ECG, muscular activity and breathing frequency. Here is a short quote from Lena Berglin: 'I wanted to do something that gave a positive health effect and made life easier.'
Smart Design's Femme Den
For anyone targeting women users, the thoughts of the gals at Smart Design's Femme Den are really spot on. I saw Erica Eden talk at the last conference, and it was very inspiring! They have a blog but most informative on the first pass is their white paper, Design and Gender: Thinking About Sex. It talks about how women desire benefits, not features; Designing for the whole experience and what a woman takes into consideration while shopping; considering her body, her lifestyle, and above all, how it makes her feel.
Eight Things You don't Know About boomer Women (but should)
An article that talks about some obvious ones (like that women make most household purchases), but some others like why womwn travel, women and the web, and how some women boomers differ from others.
80 days that changed the world
A really interesting image gallery that helps communicate some of the most important experiences of boomers, to help understand the milestones our users have lived through.
A physical therapy view of boomer needs
Patricia Moore stressed the need for us to be in touch with physical therapists... here is what they have to say about boomer needs for the future.
March 10, 2009
A Baby Boomer will turn 60 every 7.5 seconds for the next 19 years!
A nice little read from On-Trade Marketing. Again, it's more about big trends and how not to miss out on them as it will definitely affect how Boomers perceive products and brands.
How To Play: The Upcoming Boomer Boom
It's an older article, but it pretty much talks about the next two decades and how it's going to affect Baby Boomers. It focuses more on marketing trends and what some companies are missing out on.
Boomer Diva Nation
It’s called Boomer Diva Nation and it’s a non-profit organization geared for women who are on the move and making a difference.The site is designed to offer up-to-date content on current issues affecting boomer women, along with a variety of resources to assist women in their endeavors.
Those Pesky Boomers
Some great statistics on Boomers and their techsaviness as well as why direct marketing works better.
March 8, 2009
Blog: My Special Series on 'Aging and Our Senses'
An amusing blog post on sensory changes...stuff to look forward to!
My Walking Maps
Check out this interactive map. You can plan your route or retrace it to see how far you walked or biked or whatever.
Tips For Better Time Management
A few tricks and strategies can help us internalize an appreciation for time's flight, researchers say.
March 7, 2009
Flying the not-so-fur-friendly skies
The title of the article refers to the increase in pet air travel costs but it also covers the existing air travel programs on multiple carriers and for international travel as well. Check out Virgin for their frequent flyer pet program...
Self-Cleaning Litterboxes Will Drive Pet Market To Over $11 billion by 2009
From the article:
"Pet Travel and Convenience Products," [the name of the market report] projects that the total market potential for pet travel, home assistance and on-the-go products will exceed $11 billion in the next two years.
Aftermarket Products Focus on Pets and Safety
Traveling with pets can be difficult but people are doing it and according to this article, the car industry is playing catch up with some interesting aftermarket parts.
Active Recreation Tops Lifestyle Desires for Older Baby Boomers, Senior Citizens
Statistics on growth of "adventurous" pursuits of baby boomers
BabyBoomer-Magazine.com
This links specifically to the Travel & Activities page, but there are many more topics within the site...you know, like health and fitness...
Ideas for Retirement
A short video from a guy with interesting theories on retirement and travel and phases of life.
Baby Boomer Generation Gets Set to Travel the Globe
Short article with helpful statistics on the traveling boomers.
March 4, 2009
Former president Bush suffers from "Boomeritis"
Former president Bush going to have MRI scan on knee due to running related injury.
Gardening industry targeting baby boomers
A look into the products currently being made for the boomer market with descriptions on how the products are being tailored to meet their needs.
High-End Hand-Tool Sales Surge
Custom hand tools from small retailers are doing good business thanks to the internet and baby boomers.
Baby boomers are digging into a new hobby
An article on the trends as reported in 1998 around home lawn and garden market for boomers. It provides some interesting information regarding purchasing considerations.
March 1, 2009
Physical Activity and Older Americans
Heres some graphs and charts showing the effects of physical activity/inactivity in different demographics in America.
Marketing for Baby Boomers
Article describing the appeal of a communication device for Baby Boomers.
A website dedicated to fitness advice and training for those over 50
The goal of the website is to sift through all the confusing and often conflicting data and make the content of the site simple yet very helpful. The site is supposed to supply the information you need to make informed decisions about what's best for your situation.
Tips for Baby Boomers for beginning to be Active
A great summary of how to prepare for starting to exercise.
Boomer Statistics
Another resource for statistics on baby boomers. Including perceived health and eating habits
What is the definition of Boomeritis?
MSN correspondent Lisa Daniels says Boomeritis is the mind-body mismatch of boomers concerning their age
Cardio and Heart rate monitors
This link is from a cycling performance guideline but it has a great break down of how to get the most out of training.
Fight the Feeling of Age With A Proper Diet
Cooking is cool! Boomers, men and women alike, are finding a passionate interest in cooking and dietary health. Working with doctors and a good diet with exercise, boomers like Ray Gorden pictured above, can proactively lower their blood pressure and cholesterol levels, while helping to reduce weight gain and lessen the needs for medications. There is a lot to be said about eating well and being active with your nutrition--read on for more details.
The Highest Priority of Food For Boomers
As 1 in every 4 Americans are boomers, there is a serious reason why food producers need to pay attention to what Americans want to buy and eat. Consciousness to nutrition in food and diet is an overwhelmingly growing trend in American boomers' minds. A large chunk of information, the following read breaks down ways to eat and reduce chances of pain, memory loss, fatigue, indigestion, and declining vision in the arriving baby boomer generation.
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