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Hi-Tech Clothing Could Improve Elderly Folks' Lives

by Caleb Johnson on June 6, 2009 at 11:41 PM

A three-year research project at the University of Ulster could revolutionize the clothing industry, according to BBC News. Researchers are studying ways to equip clothing with electronic devices that could possibly monitor heart rates or automatically adjust the thermostat of a home. Professor Bryan Scotney told BBC News that the technology could greatly improve the lives of elderly folks who wish to continue living on their own.

The University of Ulster's Computer Science Research Institute has been working on the healthcare technologies, hoping to increase independence for users. Researchers want to create tech-enabled clothing that is not only user-friendly, but comfortable as well. While the elderly are often too tech-phobic to embrace a shirt that monitors heart rates or a dress that tells bus schedules, we'd think that, if the clothes fit well and are cozy, these researchers could be on to something.

Jane McCann, of the University of Wales, who is also involved with the project, said the designers are considering both function and fit. She told the BBC News that, if a synthesis of the two were accomplished, it could signal the "beginning of a new industrial revolution." [From: BBC News]

Tags: bbc, clothing, elderly, health, research, top

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