Abstract
This article introduces a new method to design with older people: unfettered design. We discuss three points of concern with existing methods of involving older users: unspecific design outcomes, prejudiced views on older users, and underlying power asymmetries, which can diminish the innovative capacities of the older adults involved. To overcome these issues, we argue for the benefits of adopting unfettered design. Through unfettered design, the users involved are given the space to explore design ideas on their own terms, and unusual and unsolicited responses are explicitly desired and listened to. This, in turn, may help designers to elicit novel design ideas and identify potentials for innovative technologies. Thereby, designers may learn about the concerns and potentials for which older adults would find technologies particularly helpful - a crucial aspect considering rather low levels of technology uptake in this population segment. We illustrate our approach by means of examples from our own design experiences, and we formulate four core principles of unfettered design: ongoing reflection, retained impartiality, a distinct focus on the participants' view and remaining flexible throughout the procedure. Having undergone several waves of both technological and social change, older adults possess unique experiences and tacit knowledge that can serve as valuable inspirations for designers. Unfettered design can be particularly helpful to benefit from these competences during design projects.