This research seeks to solve the issue of serious falls suffered by the elderly during sit-to-stand interactions, which can result in life-threatening injuries. This research aims to design a walking aid that supports the interaction of standing up from a seated position on beds, seats, and toilets with a reduced risk of falls.

The finalised design was developed into a prototype test rig that was tested in two phases. Phase One had 11 participants who completed a questionnaire about their experience using the device. Phase Two included a demonstration at a retirement home, and then 15 participants filled out a questionnaire about what they thought about the test rig. The results from both phases were positive overall. Phase One results found that all the participants felt more supported and able to utilise more of their body to support standing up, reducing the stress placed on their legs from the interaction. Phase Two identified that around half of the participants who answered the question found that their current walking aid did not help them stand up from a seated position. Furthermore, all the participants answered that they believed the device would help older adults stand up. These results conclude that the project has the potential with further refinement to benefit the elderly and less able-bodied by having a walking aid that supports the user in standing up.