Ethnographic Research – Individual Interviews – Paul & Victoria Koenig

Connor De Mill interviewed his grandparents Paul and Victoria Koenig, less active late retirees.

Date: 03/06/17

Phone Interview: South Bend, IN – Tyson’s Corner, VA

Classification: “Inactive late retirees”

Characteristics:

  • Paul aged 83
  • Victoria aged 82
  • Married living together
  • Paul retired Navy engineer & Korean War veteran
  • Paul was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease in 2012
  • Both were very active before Paul’s Parkinson’s Diagnosis
    • Paul used to perform frequent yard work and home improvements, even in old age

Needs:

  • Frequent communication with physician and family members
  • News and weather information
  • Accessibility

Pain Points:

  • Transportation and travel
    • No longer allowed to drive on the highway
  • New technology
  • Large amount of medications are difficult to manage

Insights:

  • Communication with physician and family is key to physical and mental well being
  • Accessibility is key to encouraging both physical and mental activity