What information do older people want from their smart homes: a qualitative study (Preprint)

Abstract

Smart home technologies represent a potential means to support ageing in place, but older people's perceptions of the value of smart homes may be influenced by the degree to which they have access to the information that the technology collects. This information is needed to support their informed decision-making. Limited research has been conducted on how best to design visualisations of smart home data in keeping with the needs and wishes of older people.

We aimed to investigate design options that impact the usefulness of smart home systems, older people’s information needs, their perceptions of data visualisation, and the ways they would like information displayed to them.

We used a qualitative approach by which we hoped to empower participants as co-designers. Data collection comprised a sequence of methods such interviews, observation, focus groups, scenario design, probes, and design workshops. Each phase informed the next. Thirteen older people (eight women and five men aged 65-89 years) consented to participate. The dataset was analysed thematically.

Information collected was clustered into five themes: enabling home, health and self-monitoring; enabling opportunities for social inclusion and engagement; enhancing cognitive abilities; customisability of the display; and promoting inclusion in recreation and leisure activities. These themes informed five design sessions in which participants co-designed visual metaphors for the themes, based on their own experiences, in an age-inclusive manner. Together, participants produced a user-friendly prototype, which they chose to call “My Buddy”.

Smart home data visualisation is much more than a nice-to-have option. Visualisation is a must-have feature because it deepens understanding of information collected and means that technology provides information of value and relevance to older people. This may improve the acceptability and perceived utility of in-home technology. By understanding what older people want to know from smart home technology and considering how to visualise data in ways that work for them, we can provide an appropriate in-home interface. Such an interface would suggest ways or opportunities to connect and socialise; stimulates contact with close friends or family members; maintains awareness health and wellbeing; provides support in decision making and in cognitive tasks and daily life activities; and monitors health status.