Co-designing interactive textile for multisensory environments

Abstract

In Hong Kong, the number of people aged 65 years and above is rapidly increasing and the population of those in this age range is projected at 2.3 million in 2036 (Yu et al. in Dementia trends: impact of the ageing population and societal implications for Hong Kong. Hong Kong Jockey Club, Hong Kong, 2010 [1]). Given the rapid increase in the population of people with dementia, the design of a dementia-friendly environment in care facilities has become crucial for the enhanced quality of life of these people. A multisensory environment (MSE) is a term used to describe a multisensory space that can be used to provide sensory stimulation or reduce sensory demand, thereby increasing engagement and reducing challenging behaviour (Lesley and Anke in HERD 10(5): 39–51, 2016 [2]). Currently, MSE tools are relevant to people with late-stage dementia, whereas people in the early stages of this condition have limited association with such tools. The existing tools are generic and emphasises simple functions instead of design. This study reviews the existing design processes for MSEs and analyses the preliminary data derived from a pilot design study involving the Hong Kong Sheng Kong Hui Lok Man Alice Kwok Integrated Service Centre.