New Dynamics of Ageing project launched
A new research project that will explore hi-tech clothing options for the active ageing population launched at the University of Wales, Newport, on April 28.
The New Dynamics of Ageing research programme will be carried out at the University’s Smart Clothes and Wearable Technology Research Centre, which has attracted major research funding for the three-year project from the UK’s joint research council.
“We are at the beginning of a new industrial revolution as textiles and electronics merge, and this collaborative research project will bring together design and technology to investigate the application of smart textiles in clothing to enhance the well-being and quality of life of the active ageing population,” said Jane McCann, the principal investigator and leader of the project.
“The project aims to create a new generation of monitoring and feedback devices that will increase the independence of a rapidly growing consumer majority who are still actively participating in a sports and outdoor lifestyle. Any technological advances haven’t been readily accepted by the older user due to badly designed user-interfaces, poor integration of technology into clothing and advertising targeting the youth market.
“Little has been done to address the design requirements of older wearers in terms of human factors such as sizing, fit, predominant posture, thermal regulation, moisture management, protection and the psychological 'feel good factor'. This project will develop a shared 'language' to enhance communication between older wearers and bring together the traditional clothing and textile designers with electronics and healthcare experts,” she added.
