Finger Dexterity Exercise For Older Adults- Transforming Older Adults’ Hands Exercise Experience With Physical Tools And Technology
Abstract
Transforming finger dexterity exercises involved filming and analyzing older adults’ hand movements in an independent living facility located in Syracuse, New York. Hands help people complete the movements during the activities of daily living (ADLs) and the instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs). Hand function is crucial for seniors to sustain their capacity for independent living. Independence can be preserved if seniors are able to move their fingers freely to perform personal tasks. For my study design, I used existing foam balls as props to enhance the older adults’ exercise routines. The exercise experience was examined through prototypes, tests, and interviews to identify the functions of the props as exercise tools. The findings suggest that a physical tool can aid seniors in enhancing their finger dexterity and hand functions. An instruction book and exercise products were designed as an exercise system called “Positive Ball” to allow older adults to effectively maintain their finger dexterity. The PB Exercise System is aimed at developing the hand strength and finger dexterity of seniors. Improving their upper body strength via this exercise routine mitigates one of the risk factors for deteriorating physical well-being.
