MS can affect the brain and spinal cord, and cause a wide range of symptoms, which may include problems with vision, arm or leg movement, sensation or balance.
Mr Lewry said their research found many assistive care products for people with a range of disabilities and injuries were often utilitarian, clinical and gave little consideration to the user’s lifestyle, environment and mental health.
“We found that this lack of consideration in these products may lead to embarrassment, resistance and even refusal of use from the user.
“As designers, we can do better.”
Miss Sanderson said it was difficult for people living with MS to complete tasks or activities as easily as they may have done before diagnosis, particularly exercise.
“For someone living with MS, exercise has significantly shown to help prevent further exacerbations, build muscle strength and improve mental health.
“Yet sensitivity to temperature changes and the easy onset of fatigue could make exercising without intervention challenging.”
The duo worked with occupational therapists and people with MS to design the Freerein electric-assist kick-bike, which would “generate the feeling of the wind through your hair” while gently building up strength and improving wellbeing.
The design is among eight Otago Polytechnic School of Design-related projects, involving students, graduates and staff members, which have been named finalists in the Designers Institute of New Zealand Best Design Awards 2021.
Other Otago Polytechnic-related design award finalists are: Mila Makasini (architecture), Lauren Arthur (architecture); Andrew Wallace, William Early, SouthMed staff (product design); Mary Butler, Alex Gilks, Curtis Stent and Machiko Niimi (product design); Courtney Forbes (communication), Cameron Tillotson (communication); Dr Margo Barton and Otago Museum staff (fashion).
Otago Polytechnic chief executive Dr Megan Gibbons described the long list of finalists as “an outstanding achievement”.
The winners are expected to be announced in Auckland, on October 8.
