Integrating Barrier-free Design in Packaging: A Literature Review of Global Practices and Applications in China

Abstract

A barrier-free design ensures that all individuals equally and effectively access and employ products in various environments regardless of physical or cognitive abilities while promoting social inclusion and diversity. Barrier-free design concepts are applied to packaging design areas to ensure convenient and safe usage and improve usage experience and inclusiveness. The current study aims to review the current status of international and Chinese research on barrier-free packaging design and explore future developmental trends. The study found that the research topic of package opening accessibility was studied the most among older individuals. This means that the elderly population was the group benefiting the most from the barrier-free packaging design, although the barrier-free design allows more extensive usage without barriers for all ages. The present findings on the status and progress of barrier-free packaging design concepts offer a comprehensive perspective for other scholars, thereby encouraging greater involvement in enhancing the existing knowledge system and research practices in the relevant academic field.