Gender differences in adaptive clothing: applying functional, expressive, and aesthetic (FEA) needs of people with movement impairments

ABSTRACT Although previous studies have investigated issues related to disabled people’s social appearance and the shopping barriers younger generations face, the literature has not focused on people with mobility impairments while taking into consideration of factors in gender differences. Therefore, the purpose of this study was twofold: to conduct clothing needs assessment of people aged 18 and older with mobility impairments and to compare clothing needs assessments between genders, applying the functional, expressive, and aesthetic (FEA) needs model. The study, through personal interviews, found 10 major themes pertaining to FEA needs. Men and women from their early 20s to mid-60s did not differ greatly in their perception of clothing issues. Regardless of gender or age, the participants believed that retailers should provide more accessible clothing options that meet their needs, promoting the products at consumer-friendly price points.