AGNES (Age Gain Now Empathy System)

The AgeLab has created the Age Gain Now Empathy System, or AGNES, a suit that when worn mimics the physical restrictions of age. For example, elastic bands, kneepads, wrist guards and a neck collar restrict movement in ways that mirror arthritis and spinal problems. Earplugs reduce hearing, yellow glasses diminish sight, and gloves hinder touch. AGNES' goal is to help product and system designers, who are often in their 20s and 30s, gain insight into how older people negotiate the world, from kitchen to living and from shopping to cooking.

AgeLab’s AGNES, Age Gain Now Empathy System, is being used by students and researchers to obtain a personal understanding of the ‘friction points’ in the transportation system for older adults. Where regulations provide for basic accessibility, there remain ‘micro-barriers’ that together make the streetscape difficult to navigate and public transportation less attractive. Students will work with planners and engineers to identify barriers beyond accessibility for older pedestrians and transit users. The findings will be prepared in a paper, recommendations for improvements will be developed and general guidance will be provided for planners and transit operators.