Elderly Anthropometrics for Ergonomic Purposes

Abstract

Researchers have been more interested in the working population hoping to make the work more effective, more comfortable and more productive. Populations outside the work age such as children and the elderly have not been extensively studied especially in developing countries. In this study, anthropometric measurements were taken from a sample of the elderly in Bahrain to assess their body physique, and to provide anthropometric data that can be used in the design of products for them. In this regard, 39 body measurements were taken (age, weight, 08 standing heights, 3 lengths, 3 sitting heights, 11 circumferences, 2 skin-fold measurements, 2 hand measurements, 2 foot measurements, 2 anthropometric Indices, and 2 strength measurements). Results showed that Bahraini elderly were both overweight (males) and obese (females). In addition, there were statistical differences between gender groups and between age groups. Also there was a clear difference between the Bahraini elderly and elderly from international countries. Finally, some light was shed on the design of products for the elderly.