Abstract
Objective Characteristic motions during putting on and taking off underwear and pants-type diapers were clarified by a comparison between young and elderly persons. Methods (Evaluation items)The following were performed during the activity of putting on and taking off underwear and pants-type diapers on standing (putting on and taking off)–Subjective evaluation –Motion analysis–Electromyography Results (Putting on) The levels of the wrists were significantly lower in the elderly pants-type diaper group. Shoulder movement was more marked in the diaper group in both the young and elderly subjects. The highest and lowest positions of the head were both lower in the diaper group in the elderly subjects. On subjective evaluation, both the young and elderly subjects felt it difficult to wear the diaper. The muscle load was increased in the diaper group in both the young and elderly subjects. (Taking off) The distance of the anteroposterior movement of the wrists was slightly reduced in the elderly diaper group. The highest and lowest positions of the head were slightly lower in the elderly diaper group. On subjective evaluation, the young subjects felt it difficult to take off the pants-type diaper. Summary It was predicted that lowering the head and wrist positions places a heavy burden on elderly persons because their body flexibility, muscle strength, and balance are reduced. It is important to design pants-type diapers that reduce the senile body-specific burden. [J Physiol Sci. 2008;58 Suppl:S161]
