Exploring Autonomy as a Design Principle: Theoretical Review of Autonomy and Case Studies of Service Design for Seniors

The number of senior citizens has increased rapidly over the last decade. However, cultural preconceptions that create social barriers preventing seniors from being adequately supported still prevail. This work argues that understanding and nurturing the principle of autonomy is essential in designing services for senior population. A theoretical review reveals that autonomy is essential for well-being, but this concept has not been sufficiently explored in the context of service design. This article examines autonomy from philosophical, psychological, bioethical, and feminist perspectives and presents a framework that highlights four dimensions of autonomy: power to make decisions, capacity for action, sense of control, and self- governance. To illustrate these dimensions of autonomy, four service design projects conducted in partnership with local senior organizations are presented. Design insights based on the theoretical framework and learnings from the projects are shared to enhance autonomy in service design.