Smart technologies and textiles and their potential use and application in the care and support of elderly individuals: A systematic review

Demographic change is causing society to age. At the same time, technological progress is changing the way ageing individuals are cared for and medically treated. Several smart wearables and garments have recently been developed for this purpose. Based on previous research, we see a research gap in the use of smart clothing in the care and support of elderly people, especially with regard to concrete application potentials and example products. The aim of this study was to provide an overview of the latest studies and developments in smart clothing with a focus on usability and acceptance for an elderly individuals. A systematic literature search was performed in five databases using a predefined set of keyword. A total of 169 articles published between 1/2000 and 2/2023 were identified and assessed. The literature search followed a previously prepared research protocol according to the criteria of a systematic literature search. The research field of smart clothing is expanding with smart shirts being a major focus; however other products are also being investigated, each with specific capabilities. In particular, vital parameters are constantly optimized; representative products are described and assessed according to their potential applicability to elderly people. The future applications of smart clothing in health care are promising. Many studies on basic applications of smart textiles have been done, and some studies have already involved older people. Furthermore, newly developed suggestions for possible categorizations of smart wearables as well as smart clothing as a subtype are presented based on the researched literature. We found an overall positive impression of the development and application of smart clothing, especially in geriatric settings. However, aspects such as data collection, skin compatibility, wearing comfort, and integration of geriatric factors into known acceptance models need further investigation. Over the last two decades, there have been many developments in the field of smart clothing. For the care and support of elderly people, smart clothing is an important development with great potential. Continued advancement in these products is needed to adequately address the special needs of older people.