Abstract

This research aims to investigate the intricate relationship between elderly personal perception and senior footwear design, emphasizing essential considerations of age-appropriate shoes for well-being in Hong Kong. The study provides an understanding of gender-specific variations in visual perception of footwear and their impact on preferences and judgments. Material selection is identified as a critical factor influencing both aesthetic appeal and user comfort.

Employing quantitative methodologies, the research analyzes comfort levels and aesthetic appeal of footwear designed for the senior market. All data is analyzed by IBM SPSS, a statistical analysis software. By conducting a survey in the community, the study uncovered material acceptance, colour preferences, and aesthetic ratings between genders, providing insights into the multifaceted nature of elderly consumers’ footwear choices.

The investigation extends to show females have higher aesthetic acceptance of aesthetic footwear design and preference for ‘Denim’. Pivotal features of senior footwear have emerged, showcasing a design of no fastenings and a 1-inch heel height, similar to the style of Orthofeet Sneakers. In contrast to traditional senior shoe designs, gender preference in footwear design is significant, with men preferring blue and green colours and women preferring pink and purple.

The older adult population in Hong Kong is generally accepting shoes that combine comfort and aesthetic appeal, with women prioritizing visual appeal. Footwear choices lean towards sneakers, celebrated for their higher comfort level and stylish appeal with functional design elements, particularly among the senior demographic. This indicates that the demand for innovative senior footwear design is essential to cater and even customize to the requirements of the aging demographic.

Keywords:Aesthetic design; Comfort level; Senior fashion; Footwear; Customization; Functional; Person perception; Hong Kong