Ergonomics for special populations

ABSTRACT

The need for Rehabilitation ergonomics for working with special population is potentially greater than with non disabled population. Their quality of life can be influenced to a great extent. In accordance, databases and information should be developed and used for designing environments for special population. Design should consider injury prevention, productivity enhancement, ease of use, and acceptability to the particular population that will use the product, be it medical or a rehabilitation equipment, a consumer product, or tools in a work setting. An approach to applying rehabilitation ergonomics principles for special populations is introduced to help match task requirements with the functional capabilities of special populations. This approach also challenges the definitions of who may be considered disabled versus enabled by promoting the use of design concepts to alter task requirements. It is hoped that this concept and methodology will be used to benefit the lives of the individuals within special populations, and all of rehabilitation and social problem management