User-centric Smart City Services for People with Disabilities and the Elderly: A UN SDG Framework Approach

Abstract

The publication presents the result of extensive research analysing how we can make smart cities more sustainable and inclusive. The central problem was to explore the readiness to adopt inclusive smart services that can sustainably foster, primarily, the inclusion of people with disabilities and the elderly. The secondary audience included the general population, facilitating a comprehensive examination of the varying needs among these demographics. The methodology involved an online questionnaire, formulated based on the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology 2 model, and administered to a diverse sample of 302 participants from developing countries, Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Montenegro, ensuring a broad representation of gender, age, educational backgrounds, and disability statuses. Key findings indicate a positive inclination towards smart city services across all demographics, particularly among the elderly and people with disabilities. Factors such as ease of use, and opportunities for social engagement are key drivers in the adoption of smart technologies. Research shows that all groups are interested in using smart city services if these would provide extensive environmental information, thereby improving their quality of life. The research contributes to the field by providing actionable insights for policymakers and urban developers to create more accessible and sustainable city environments.