Architecture and design firm uses elderly simulation to design easier terminals at LAX, airports

In just a few more years, the population in LA County will be increasingly older. In fact, by 2020, the county's age of 50 or older is expected to increase by 27% and the population age 65 or older will increase by 43%.

That's why Corgan, an architecture and design firm is conducting research to build airport terminals that will better meet the needs of older people.

They're doing it by using an age simulation suit that helps them understand the aging process.

The suit comes with glasses that restrict vision, shoes that create an unsteady gait and a heavy vest that simulates extra weight and loss of muscle mass.

Brent Kelly of Corgan says, "This suit allows us to understand the physical constraints the aging population faces, be it being able to walk on a flat surface versus on a ramp, being able to lift things from a baggage ramp and how they maneuver through crowded airports."

Corgan's research is helping to design the newest concourse at LAX.

The Mid Field Satellite Concourse is a new facility just to the west of Tom Bradley International Terminal.

It will open the end of 2019 / beginning of 2020.

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