Abstract:
This paper presents the findings of a qualitative
study on the perceptions and thoughts of elderly people on the
use of current sensor network technology for assisted aged care.
Focus groups of elderly people were presented with examples of
current sensor nodes and example scenarios of their use, and
then invited to provide input on a range of issues surrounding
the design and use of the technology. The focus group findings were verified with a health care professional as a control
measure. This study examines sensing based interaction, implementation methodologies and user acceptance issues specifically for the elderly, and from the elderly’s perspective. A significant finding of the study is that the two most important factors for elderly acceptance of sensor technology are cost and control.
