A smart textile loneliness monitoring system for older people: co-design and focus group evaluation

<p dir="ltr"><b>Background</b>: Previous studies have explored how sensor technologies can assist in detecting of subjective loneliness for recognition and prevention. These studies have shown a correlation between physiological and behavioral sensor data and the experience of loneliness. However, little research has been conducted on the design requirements from the perspective of older people and stakeholders in the technology development. The use and infrastructural questions have been insufficiently addressed. Systems generally consist of sensors or software installed in smartphones or homes. However, no studies attempted to use smart textiles, which are electronics integrated fabrics. </p><p dir="ltr"><b>Objectives</b>: This study aims to understand the design requirements for a smart textile and loneliness monitoring system from the perspectives of older people and stakeholders. </p><p dir="ltr"><b>Methods</b>: This study conducted co-design workshops with users (n=5) and stakeholders (n=6) to determine the design requirements for smart textile loneliness monitoring systems. We derived a preliminary product concept of the smart wearable and furniture system. Digital and physical models and a use case were evaluated in a focus group study with older people and stakeholders (n=7). </p><p dir="ltr"><b>Results</b>: The results provide insights for designing systems that employ smart textiles to monitor loneliness in older people and widen their use. The findings inform the general system, wearables and furniture, materials, sensor positioning, washing, sensor synchronization devices, charging, intervention, and installation and maintenance requirements. This study provides the first insight from a human-centered perspective on smart textile loneliness monitoring systems for older people. </p><p dir="ltr"><b>Conclusions</b>: We recommend more research on the intervention that links to the monitored loneliness in a way that addresses different needs to ensure its usefulness and value to people. Future systems must also reflect on questions of identification of system users and the available infrastructure and life circumstances of people. We further find requirements such as user cooperation, a compatibility with other worn medical devices, and long-term durability.</p>