A Study on the Design of Portable Hand Exercise Toys for the Elderly Based on Multisensory Interaction

Abstract

Against the backdrop of an aging population and the continuous development of the silver economy, the design of products for the elderly is gradually shifting from single-function compensation to a balanced emphasis on health support, emotional care, and life experiences. Addressing the declining hand dexterity, reduced sensory sensitivity, and daily emotional comfort needs of the elderly, this paper explores the design concepts and practical approaches for portable hand exercise toys for the elderly, using multisensory interaction as a starting point.Through literature analysis, needs assessment, and design practice, this study identifies the needs of elderly users regarding light hand activities, clear sensory feedback, psychological companionship, and low-burden usage. Based on these findings, four design principles are proposed: usability, comfort, multisensory coordination, and portability. Building on this foundation, the study conducts design practices centered on portable hand exercise toys for the elderly, exploring ways to integrate hand activities, multisensory feedback, and everyday play experiences.This study aims to transform relatively mechanical hand exercises into natural, low-intensity, and sustainable daily play experiences, providing a reference for the experience design of age-friendly toys and products.