| The current study examined the desired characteristics of a 'smart' nightstand for higher and lower functioning older adults. Incorporating 'smart' technology into the housing environment of older adults has been identified as a key way to help aging-in-place. Yet, little has been done to examine what older adults want and need in such 'smart' technology. Twelve lower functioning and twenty higher functioning older adults were surveyed concerning their likes and needs on items and functions on a 'smart' nightstand. The concepts for a 'smart' nightstand were demonstrated with cardboard prototypes with which the participants could interact. Results showed that overall, both higher and lower functioning older adults rated items and functions higher on the like scale than on the need scale. Also, there were no significant differences between the ratings of higher and lower functioning older adults. Design principles were created from participants' ratings to drive the next phase of design iterations. |
