BRIDGING THE EMPATHY GAP: EXERCISING EMPATHY AS A METHOD FOR ASSISTIVE PRODUCT DESIGN

Assistive products play a crucial role in improving the quality of life for individuals with reduced motor and sensory capacities by providing them with tools and technologies that promote greater independence and inclusion. However, the success of these products heavily depends on the empathetic understanding of users' needs and challenges. Exercising empathy, which involves actively immersing oneself in users' perspectives to effectively identify and address the critical pain points and limitations faced by individuals with disabilities, becomes a crucial phase in the health design process. This article presents the application of this method in the context of a product design studio with first-year students of a bachelor's degree in product design, along with a selection of results. The article aims to demonstrate how exercising empathy can foster the development of innovative and inclusive assistive products that are truly aligned with users' needs and aspirations. Through the implementation of empathy exercises, designers can bridge the empathy gap and contribute to a more accessible and empathetic future for individuals with disabilities.