As the world's most populous country, China is facing a rapidly aging population. This phenomenon, known as "aging," poses a significant challenge for China's economic development and social stability. In recent years, there has been a growing interest in researching the aging problem in China [1]. China's aging population is characterized by several demographic features. First, the proportion of elderly people in the population is increasing. According to data from the National Bureau of Statistics of China, the proportion of people aged 60 or above in the population increased from 13.3% in 2010 to 18.7% in 2020 [2]. Second, the gender imbalance among the elderly population is becoming more apparent. The number of elderly women is significantly higher than that of elderly men. Third, the aging problem in China is more severe in rural areas than in urban areas [2]. The aging problem also has a significant impact on China's social stability. As the number of elderly people increases, the burden on younger generations also increases. This can lead to social conflicts and an erosion of traditional family values [3].

The Chinese government has implemented various policies to address the aging problem. These policies include expanding the social security system, promoting family care for the elderly, and encouraging the development of a new model of elderly care services. However, these policies face many challenges, such as inadequate funding and an insufficient number of trained caregivers [4].China is gradually moving towards a super-aging society [5]. This study will take the loneliness of the elderly living alone as the main research object, and bring it into product design through the transformation and transmission of emotions, and use the flow theory to make the elderly enter a state of ecstasy. So as to achieve spiritual satisfaction and joy.

As China's population ages, the number of elderly people living alone is increasing. This phenomenon poses a significant challenge for China's social welfare system and raises concerns about the health and well-being of elderly individuals. In recent years, there has been growing interest in researching the issue of elderly people living alone in China. The majority of these individuals are women who are over 60 years old and have low levels of education and income. They are often divorced or widowed and have limited social networks and support [6]. Elderly people living alone in China face various health and well-being issues. They are more likely to suffer from chronic diseases, mental health problems, and social isolation. Elderly people living alone in China often lack social support and care. They have limited interaction with family members and friends and are more likely to experience loneliness and depression. The current social welfare system in China is inadequate in addressing the needs of elderly people living alone [7].

The issue of elderly people living alone is not unique to China. Many developed countries, such as Japan and South Korea, also face this issue. The experiences of these countries provide valuable lessons for China to learn from. For example, Japan has developed a comprehensive community-based care system that provides social support and care for elderly people living alone. The issue of elderly people living alone in China is a complex issue that requires a multi-faceted response. The demographic characteristics, health and well-being, social support and care, policy response, and international comparisons are all important aspects of the issue. Further research is needed to identify effective solutions to this issue. It is hoped that this paper can provide a useful reference for policymakers, researchers, and practitioners who are interested in addressing the issue of elderly people living alone in China.

Literature Review

As China's population ages, the number of elderly people living alone is increasing. Understanding the characteristics of this group is important for developing effective policies and programs to support their well-being. According to a study by Liu and Guo [8], elderly people living alone in China are more likely to be women, over 80 years old, and have low levels of education and income. They are often divorced or widowed and have limited social networks and support [8]. A study by Zhang et al. [9] found that elderly people living alone in China are more likely to be widowed or divorced, and have lower levels of education and income compared to elderly people living with others. They are also more likely to live in rural areas [9]. Elderly people living alone in China face various health issues. They are more likely to suffer from chronic diseases such as hypertension, diabetes, and heart disease, and have a higher risk of disability and mortality [10]. Elderly people living alone in China often lack social support. They have limited interaction with family members and friends, and are more likely to experience loneliness and social isolation [11]. Elderly people living alone in China often face poor living conditions. A study by Li et al. [12] found that elderly people living alone in rural areas had limited access to health care and social services. They were also more likely to live in poor housing conditions [12]. Elderly people living alone in China face significant challenges in terms of their demographic characteristics, health status, social support, and living conditions. These challenges require a multi-faceted response from policymakers, researchers, and practitioners.

Flow theory is a psychological theory proposed by Hungarian psychologist Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi in the 1970s [13]. Flow refers to a mental state in which people are fully immersed and focused in an activity, feeling a loss of self-awareness and a relative disregard for time, while also experiencing interest and satisfaction. People in a flow state typically feel very happy and fulfilled. The generation of a flow state requires a balance between challenge and skill level, clear goals, immediate feedback, focused attention, autonomy, and a sense of control. Flow theory has been widely applied in fields such as education, work, sports, art, and so on, helping people understand how to achieve optimal performance and happiness in various activities [14].

Entering into flow state has many benefits for elderly people. Elderly people entering into flow state can improve their attention, memory, and thinking abilities, thus enhancing their cognitive abilities [15]. Flow state can help elderly people invest themselves in activities, reducing their attention on their age and living more positively and happily, delaying cognitive decline [16]. Elderly people can gain positive emotions and happy experiences in flow state, which is very beneficial for preventing psychological issues such as depression and anxiety [17]. Elderly people can be happier and more satisfied in flow state, which can help them better face various challenges and difficulties in life, increasing life satisfaction [18]. Elderly people can gain fulfilling and satisfying experiences in flow state, which can encourage them to participate in social interactions and activities more actively [19]. In summary, flow state is very beneficial for elderly people, which can enhance cognitive abilities, delay cognitive decline, improve mental health, increase life satisfaction, and promote social interaction. Elderly people should participate in various activities and try to enter into flow state, enjoying positive and enjoyable experiences.

This study will use the semi-structured interview method of expert interviews to obtain the ideas, opinions, and perspectives of three types of experts: caregivers of elderly people who live alone, emotional designers, and psychologists. Design elements and strategies will be identified from these interviews and encoded. The content of the interviews will be compiled and used to derive and formulate the contents and precautions of on-site observation methods. The observation method will focus on four steps: observation, attention, focus on the environment, subjective intervention and recording, and behavioral judgment. Through these four observation points, changes in the expressions of elderly people during the game will be noted, as well as whether external environmental factors have influenced the mindset of the test subject. At the end of the game, the test subject will be interviewed about the changes and differences in their mindset during the game, which will aid in the formulation of future design strategies.

This study is based on the concepts of emotional design and flow theory. Relevant questions are presented to interviewees, and their answers are used as first-hand objective data. Through face-to-face communication with interviewees, the authenticity and reliability of the data are improved, thereby enhancing credibility. Semi-structured interviews are the main research method, and experts with different levels of experience and knowledge are selected and studied through screening and induction (Table 1). The interviewees include caregivers of elderly people who live alone, emotional designers, and psychologists. Through the interviews and opinions of these professionals, the elements of product design for elderly people who live alone are constructed as the basis for future research.

This study will use a non-structured and non-participatory observation research method to find four elderly people who live alone and conduct a trial of products that apply flow theory to emotional design. The usage of the product will be observed to understand whether it is helpful to the elderly people who live alone through their behavior during usage. Improvements will be made based on the observations to make future design strategies more comprehensive. This study uses chess and Penguin Trap as the products related to flow theory. Through the observation method, the three processes of stimulation, sensation, and judgment are stimulated. The study records the emotional changes and psychological shifts of the participants, and uses a questionnaire to understand whether their state of mind during the observation is consistent with what was observed.

Table 1: Interview Object Drafting

Table 2: Expert A1-Summary and Analysis of the Interview Contents

Table 3: Expert A2-Summary and Analysis of the Interview Contents

Table 4: Expert A3-Summary and Analysis of the Interview Contents

Date Collection

After summarizing the results obtained through literature review, this study established an interview outline as the main points for future research. The experts interviewed were from three fields: psychology, emotional design, and elderly care volunteering. Semi-structured interviews were conducted to explore the living habits of the elderly, the impact of emotional design and flow theory on the elderly, and to formulate questions for further research. The study also gathered advice and recommendations from experts in different fields to better understand the direction and key points for future research.

Song Limei is a volunteer for a Foundation. She lives in a veterans' village predominantly occupied by elderly people and has long been in contact with elderly individuals living alone. Through interviews, she has learned about relevant issues regarding the living habits of elderly people who live alone. With society's aging population, the phenomenon of dying alone may increase. Volunteer Song expressed that the needs of elderly people are straightforward, they only hope that their children will occasionally come back to visit or call them. This can not only alleviate their loneliness but also allow for the timely discovery of their physical condition. Watching TV is the only way for elderly people to hear other people's voices, and some elderly people even have conversations with the TV to alleviate their loneliness. Conversely, interacting with others and playing games such as chess can help elderly people feel more joyful and mentally active. For elderly people living alone, the most necessary help is not material enjoyment but spiritual regret. They hope that their families can return to their side frequently to care about their lives, no matter the size. This is particularly crucial for elderly people. Volunteer Song believes that emotional design is not only suitable for elderly people but also for all age groups. Emotional design can help reduce the negative impact of psychological loneliness for elderly people, and board games such as chess are a good example.

In Japan, there is a rising industry called "death cleaning service," which specializes in post-death arrangements for elderly people who live alone. Teacher Zheng Yawen believes that such an industry may also emerge in China in the future. However, this industry may not truly help elderly people who live alone. Instead, the real solution is to manage these elderly people in centralized facilities, just like existing nursing homes. If these institutions can be supported by kind-hearted individuals and provide a place for elderly people to gather and spend their remaining years peacefully, the phenomenon of "lonely death" can be avoided. Teacher Zheng Yawen pointed out that most elderly people who live alone have psychological problems, often stemming from the absence of their children or spouse. While some may have divorced, they can rely on other kind-hearted individuals who can slowly enter their world, understand their needs, and help these elderly people.

Teacher Zheng Yawen also mentioned that when a person devotes themselves fully to something that matches their skill level, they enter a state of "flow," which makes them feel excited and joyful. However, bringing this state of mind into a product can result in different emotions for different users. For example, in chess, two players of similar skill levels will feel competitive and easily enter a state of flow. But if a novice faces an expert, they may feel frustrated and have negative emotions, which could worsen their mood. Therefore, special attention needs to be paid when designing such products. While entering a state of flow can indeed effectively reduce the inner loneliness of elderly people who live alone, it cannot truly address their deep-seated needs for companionship. Teacher Zheng Yawen also mentioned that when a person devotes themselves fully to something that matches their skill level, they enter a state of "flow," which makes them feel excited and joyful. However, bringing this state of mind into a product can result in different emotions for different users. For example, in chess, two players of similar skill levels will feel competitive and easily enter a state of flow. But if a novice faces an expert, they may feel frustrated and have negative emotions, which could worsen their mood. Therefore, special attention needs to be paid when designing such products. While entering a state of flow can indeed effectively reduce the inner loneliness of elderly people who live alone, it cannot truly address their deep-seated needs for companionship.

Design Director Guo Jiawei believes that everyone will have achievements and experiences in their lifetime, but the final stage can be a lonely departure, which is saddening. Therefore, establishing a community where elderly people living alone or single individuals can live together and take care of each other would reduce the phenomenon of lonely death. Elderly people can share their experiences and perspectives with young people, while young people can offer their energy to the elderly, creating a model of mutual learning and communication.

Loneliness, rather than the elderly themselves, is the biggest problem. The key to helping the elderly is to improve their living alone status. It is important to help the elderly interact with each other, such as playing chess or interacting with others, to activate their brains and maintain physical health. This is the main key to helping them overcome loneliness and keep them energetic.

The biggest psychological problem for elderly people living alone is being alone. Therefore, flow theory and emotional design can be an opportunity for multiple elderly people to participate in activities together, such as playing chess or mahjong, competing with each other. Such items can be improved to make them more convenient to carry, such as using mobile phones to enable elderly people to initiate a video call. Although they may not be able to communicate with a real person, they can communicate and interact with another or remote person through a machine or image. Perhaps this approach can apply flow theory, create a good product, and achieve its role.

Director Guo Jiawei believes that the application of flow theory in a product is not just about its appearance, but more importantly, whether the product's content can interact with people and play its maximum role. Therefore, improving the design of the original product to make it more convenient, easy, and easy to use is one way.

For the observation games in this study, two tabletop games were selected from 10 examples based on expert interviews. The selection criteria were to determine whether older adults have difficulty accepting new things due to nostalgia and their level of acceptance and adaptation to the difficulty of the game. The chosen games were chess and Penguin Trap. The purpose of selecting these two products was to observe the reactions of older adults to chess, which is commonly seen, to determine whether they can enter a state of flow through the game. On the other hand, a more modern game was chosen to assess the degree to which older adults accept new things and understand the rules of new games. Subsequently, a questionnaire was used in conjunction with several products aimed at elderly people that are commonly used by those living alone. The questionnaire was used to understand and choose the products and to determine whether combining the products with interactive game elements would generate interest. The data obtained were collated as research elements for subsequent designs.

The purpose of this study is to observe the use of flow theory products by elderly individuals, focusing on the thoughts generated during gameplay and changes in their emotions and mental states as they enter the flow channel. Prior to observation, subjects were grouped according to game requirements, with each group consisting of two individuals who played against each other until a winner was determined. Four elderly individuals, two males and two females, were observed to determine if gender played a role in affecting the results. Of the four subjects, three were more sociable and enjoyed having visitors, while one was more reclusive and less likely to approach others. Two of the subjects were more willing to go out and mingle with crowds, while the other two had limited mobility and were less likely to leave their homes. The reclusive elderly individual believed that using assistive devices would be embarrassing, so they avoided going out, while the other believed that even with such devices, there would still be many difficulties outdoors, leading to fewer outings. Nevertheless, the latter still enjoyed communicating with others. This study used these four elderly individuals as subjects to investigate whether individuals with different personalities and conditions would have different emotional responses to the experiment and whether they would successfully enter the flow state as per flow theory. 

In this study, a questionnaire was administered to participants after the game ended to understand whether they truly entered a state of flow during the game and to fully understand the reasons for changes in their mood. The first ten questions of the questionnaire were used to clarify the mindset of the participants during the game and to determine whether they entered a state of flow. The remaining four questions were designed to provide insights for the design of life products, specifically to understand what assistance older adults require and what types of products can help address their related issues. Based on the questionnaire statistics, all four participants experienced changes in their emotions during the game, with two experiencing negative emotions due to the actions of their opponents and positive emotions when their opponents fell into the trap set by them. The other two participants were less affected by these factors, but all four participants felt depressed due to their lack of caution and immediately changed their mindset to become fully engaged in the game. During the game, all four participants ignored the sense of time and focused only on how to win. This was likely an indication that they entered a state of flow, where they were fully absorbed in the game, free from external distractions. At the end of the game, they did not feel depressed due to their lack of skill but felt a sense of satisfaction and joy for having given it their all, which is consistent with Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi's concept of flow presented in 2008. This is a state where individuals forget themselves, forget time, forget all unrelated matters, and are completely immersed in a certain thing or situation, with no feelings of confusion, frustration, or boredom caused by repetitive or complex tasks.

This study clarifies that the most significant concern for elderly people living alone is the deep sense of loneliness, which is currently an issue that design cannot overcome. Through literature review and expert interviews, this study used a game test to allow participants to experience the feeling of flow theory. After the test, a questionnaire was used to understand and determine if the participants entered the state of flow during the game, thus achieving a sense of forgetting the passage of time, alleviating feelings of loneliness, and realizing the importance of flow theory, emotional design, and life products. Based on the analysis of survey data, the study proposed arguments and discussed its limitations, as well as provided suggestions for future research.

This study explores the factors affecting the application of emotional design in products for the elderly and proposes that assistive devices should apply flow theory for optimal design. By changing the appearance of assistive devices through emotional design, it can differentiate from previous models, reduce the elderly's psychological resistance to using assistive devices, and promote self-confidence while guiding them to go outdoors. By incorporating flow theory into the behavioral level of assistive devices, it enables interaction with people, allowing for gameplay and shared topics between the elderly and others, thus solving the problem of loneliness and depression caused by the lack of communication. At the reflective level, this study incorporates the nostalgia psychology of the elderly, such as adding objects from the users' generation, to stimulate memories and reduce psychological resistance. The integration of these two theories can alleviate the psychological and physical problems faced by the elderly, and reduce the social phenomenon of dying alone.

Based on expert interviews and observation, it was found that the nostalgic psychology of elderly people living alone is not as serious as originally expected. The elderly are unwilling to ask for help due to face-saving concerns. Therefore, others need to guide them on how to use items and play games, reduce their self-esteem, and it was observed that if the game time is too short, it is difficult to enter the state of flow. Therefore, this study recommends that the game time should be at least 30 minutes, through longer guidance and focusing on the game, to enter the state of flow and achieve the mode of forgetting oneself. The game content should be simpler and easier to understand, too much complexity will make the elderly lose patience and lead to a counterproductive effect. In this combination of flow theory and emotional design, the behavior level of the elderly in using assistive products is guided to play games with others, and to reduce the elderly's rejection mentality, it is necessary to combine the application of the instinct and reflection level in emotional design. Using the elderly's nostalgia psychology, adding scenery and characteristics from their era, and making them feel a sense of familiarity, can reduce their rejection of new things, thereby reducing psychological problems such as loneliness and depression in the state of flow, and reducing the social phenomenon of elderly loneliness and death.

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