Aetna·Product Manager·Onsite - Product Sense / Strategy·Intermediate

Intermediate

Apr 2026

Summary

Aetna PM interview with a product design question focused on accessibility and aging populations. Pretty open-ended, which I wasn't fully prepared for coming from a more metrics-driven background.

Questions Asked (1)

How would you design a hair comb specifically for elderly users aged 65 and older?

Product Sense & IdeationAdaptability & Ambiguity

Author's notes

I jumped straight into features without grounding it in user needs first, which I regretted mid-answer.

Create a free account to read the full note

AI HintsAI Generated

Suggested Approach

Start by clarifying the goal and constraints, then segment elderly users by physical and cognitive needs. Use a structured product design framework to generate and prioritize features, and tie the solution back to Aetna's mission of improving health and well-being for seniors.

Pro tip: Emphasize that designing for accessibility benefits everyone, and mention how the comb could integrate with Aetna's broader ecosystem of health services, such as fall prevention or arthritis management programs.

1. Clarify the Objective and Constraints

Ask questions to understand the purpose (e.g., is it for grooming, health monitoring, or both?) and constraints (budget, materials, regulatory). This shows you avoid assumptions.

2. Define User Personas and Needs

Segment elderly users by conditions like arthritis, vision impairment, or dementia. Identify key pain points such as grip difficulty, fine motor control, and safety.

3. Ideate and Prioritize Features

Brainstorm features that address needs: ergonomic handle, large teeth, soft bristles, tactile markers, and optional smart sensors. Prioritize using a framework like RICE or MoSCoW.

4. Prototype and Test with Users

Describe a rapid prototyping approach, including testing with actual elderly users to gather feedback on usability, comfort, and effectiveness.

5. Align with Business Goals and Iterate

Connect the design to Aetna's objectives, such as improving member health outcomes or reducing healthcare costs. Outline metrics for success and iteration.

Key Points to Mention

Ergonomic design: larger, non-slip handles and lightweight materials to accommodate arthritis and reduced grip strength.
Visual and tactile accessibility: high-contrast colors, textured grips, and large, easy-to-see teeth for users with low vision.
Safety features: rounded tips and anti-snag design to prevent scalp injury, especially for users with sensitive skin or cognitive impairments.
Integration with health monitoring: optional sensors to track brushing habits or detect scalp conditions, linking to Aetna's wellness programs.
User-centered testing: involving elderly users in co-design and usability testing to ensure real-world effectiveness.
Business impact: how the product could reduce fall risks, improve hygiene, and support Aetna's value-based care model.

AI-generated suggestions, not part of the candidate's original notes. May be inaccurate — verify before relying on them.