Designing Bamboo-Based Products for Elderly Care: A Cross-Cultural Study Between Japan and Malaysia

Bamboo, a renewable and culturally significant material in both countries, Japan and Malaysia, presents vast potential for sustainable product design. As both Japan and Malaysia face the challenges of growing elderly populations, there is a need for products that promote independence, mobility, and a high quality of life for older adults. The study focuses on merging traditional bamboo craftsmanship with modern ergonomic needs, targeting key areas such as comfort, safety, and usability for aging populations. Therefore, this paper aims to explore the development of innovative bamboo-based products designed to enhance the well-being of the elderly, drawing on cultural and material synergies between Japan and Malaysia. The study has emphasized cross-cultural review on the bamboo-based industry in both countries, as well as presenting innovative bamboo-based products for the elderly. This research will provide practical solutions that address the global aging challenge and serve as a model for how traditional materials can be reimagined to meet contemporary societal needs, contributing to both the academic discourse on sustainable design and real-world applications for elderly care products. This study is significant to be aligned with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG 9 (promotes inclusive and sustainable industrialization, fostering innovation, and building resilient infrastructure) and SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production). By utilizing bamboo-based products, the research not only supports environmental sustainability but also fosters cultural exchange and innovation.