JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

Previous work explored how sensor technologies can assist the detection of subjective loneliness for recognition and preventative measures. Such studies showed a correlation between physiological, behavioral sensor data and the experience of loneliness. However, there has been little research to inform about the design requirements from the perspective of older people and stakeholders in the technology development. Use and infrastructural questions have been insufficiently addressed. Systems generally consist of sensors or software installed in smartphones or homes, yet few studies attempted to use smart textiles, which are electronics integrated fabrics.

Objective:

This study aims to understand the design requirements for a smart textile and loneliness monitoring system from the perspective of older people and stakeholders.

Methods:

This study conducted co-design workshops with users and stakeholders to deduce design requirements for such sensor systems with older people and stakeholders (n=11). From the initial co-design study, we derived at a preliminary product concept of the smart wearable and furniture system. Digital and physical models and a use case were then evaluated with older people and stakeholders (n=7). We further compare results with interviews we conducted with 60 older people that had experienced loneliness after the age of 65.

Results:

The results provide insight for designing systems that employ smart textiles for monitoring loneliness in older people, and for widening their use. Findings inform about the general system, wearable and furniture, material, sensor positioning, washing, the sensor synchronization device, charging, intervention, and installation and maintenance requirements. This provides first insight from a human-centered perspective in literature on both, loneliness monitoring systems and smart textile systems for older people.

Conclusions:

We add to the considerations of loneliness monitoring systems by recommending more clarity on the intervention that happens in response to the monitored loneliness. Future systems will need to provide sensitive aesthetics, discretion, avoiding the impression of burdening family members, instructions in washing and charging, preferences in detachable components, and environmental consciousness.