WALKING FRAME DESIGN RECOMMENDATION BASED ON EXPERIENCE OF ELDERLY USER, CARER, AND THE INDUSTRY IN KUALA LUMPUR & SELANGOR, MALAYSIA

Previous studies have found several discrepancies regarding walking frames/walkers. The purpose of this study was to investigate the issues and challenges that elderly face when using a frame/walker, as well identify potential solutions considerations. Focus Group Discussion (FGD) Quality Function Deployment (QFD) sessions were conducted in which involved seventeen respondents from various parties, including people aged 60 above (current users frames/walkers), their caregivers, industry marketing selling frames/walkers experts/researchers. Interview data verbatim transcripts analyzed thematically gathered systematically into specific classification according House (HoQ) for technical analysis. Findings on FGD showed quality, design, cost key raised by respondents. Based HoQ analysis, it’s indicated highest rank customer requirements (CRs) new design requirement safety (rank 1), stable 2), suitable outdoor use 3), user-friendly 4) comfort 5). Meanwhile, (TRs) are adjustable height width two-level handle ‘R’ shape 2 & with ABS castor wheel provided functional accessories such seat, bucket, pocket information acquired would be useful references further development Malaysian future.