Exploring the functional quality attributes of smart home for the elderly based on qualitative research and Kano model

Abstract

Background: This study investigates the functional attributes of smart home for the elderly across different age groups, aiming to identify features that fulfill users’ needs and give convenience, thereby offering scientific guidance for future smart home designs for the elderly. Methods: This study conducts semi-structured interviews with elderly individuals in China, analyzing transcripts using NVivo to guide questionnaire design. Subsequently, a questionnaire survey is administered to the elderly in China, with the data processed using both the traditional Kano model and the Better-Worse-based Kano model. Results: The study results reveal that the elderly aged 60-69 prioritize health, life and entertainment functions, identifying two are Must-be quality, five are One-dimensional quality and one is Attractive quality. The elderly aged 70 and above focus on health, life and emotion functions, identifying one is Must-be quality, six are One-dimensional quality and two are Attractive quality. Conclusions: The study reveals distinct needs among different elderly age groups. Through the classification of functional attributes of smart home for the elderly, development strategies can be precisely formulated to better meet the needs of different age groups.