Survey on demand for smart home technology as assistive technology for people with physical disabilities in Korea.

Abstract

Purpose: This study investigated the awareness, preferences, and demand for smart home technology among individuals with physical disabilities.

Methods: A total of 73 participants with various physical disabilities, including spinal cord injury (SCI), cerebrovascular accident (CVA), and cerebral palsy (CP), were surveyed. Data were collected through structured interviews and questionnaires, focusing on participants' awareness of smart home technologies, their preferred control interfaces, and the barriers they face in daily living activities. Statistical analysis was conducted to identify significant differences based on diagnosis, hand functionality, and walking ability.

Findings: The study revealed that although overall awareness of smart home technology was low, there was a high preference for specific devices such as smart speakers, TVs, and air conditioners. Preferences for control interfaces varied significantly by disability type: SCI participants favored smart speakers, CVA participants preferred remote controls, and CP participants opted for smartphones and tablets. Additionally, hand functionality and walking ability significantly impacted participants' ability to perform indoor activities of daily living (ADLs), highlighting the need for tailored smart home solutions.

Conclusions: The study underscores the importance of tailored smart home solutions that consider the specific needs and preferences of individuals with physical disabilities. This finding calls for a more empathetic and understanding approach to designing and implementing assistive technologies. It also emphasizes the crucial role of ongoing education and promotion in improving the adoption and utilization of these technologies.