International Journal of Human Ecology

The Korean Home Economics Association (대한가정학회)
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Attitudes and Acceptability of Smart Wear Technology: Qualitative Analysis from the Perspective of Caregivers

  • Park, Soonjee (Department of Clothing and Fashion, Yeungnam University) ;
  • Harden, Amy J. (Department of Family and Consumer Sciences, Ball State University) ;
  • Nam, Jinhee (Department of Family and Consumer Sciences, Ball State University) ;
  • Saiki, Diana (Department of Family and Consumer Sciences, Ball State University) ;
  • Hall, Scott S. (Department of Family and Consumer Sciences, Ball State University) ;
  • Kandiah, Jay (Department of Family and Consumer Sciences, Ball State University)
  • Received : 2012.09.28
  • Accepted : 2012.12.14
  • Published : 2012.12.30
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Abstract

Smart wear integrates computing technology into fabric or a garment for additional functionality. This research explored the attitudes and opinions of the use of smart wear from the viewpoint of caregivers. Thirty two individuals including care providers of children and adult family members with health problems participated in focus group interviews. Participants reported being interested in smart wear because of the potential to detect the location (GPS) of a dependent (e.g., child, elderly) and to monitor vital signs. Participants indicated perceived advantages of smart wear such as identifying geographical location and effectiveness. Perceived concerns mentioned were privacy/security issues and accuracy of data. Participants taking care of dependents without a specific disease were hesitant to adopt and pay for smart wear. However, caregivers of elderly individuals expressed positive adoption intentions and willingness to reasonably pay for smart wear. They indicated expectations that potential insurance would provide coverage for cost savings. Caregivers expressed the need of specific requirements for future adoption such as customizability, and comfort/safety. Specific to smart wear clothing, most respondents preferred it be an undershirt or a jacket with a sensor located in the shoulder area. The findings from this study can be used in product development, promotion and marketing of smart wear.

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