Adaptive Clothing Design: From Focus Group Evaluation to Functional Prototypes

The importance of adaptive clothing has grown considerably in response to the needs of individuals with physical disabilities, whether congenital or acquired. This study explores the principles of user-centred design in developing adaptive clothing, using a framework informed by focus group discussions. The aim was to gather detailed insights to guide the design process, ensuring that users' needs and preferences are effectively addressed. To achieve this, three separate focus groups were created, comprising 7 medical staff, 5 patients from the surgical department, and 12 patients undergoing rehabilitation. This diverse representation sought to address the different needs associated with varying mobility levels, treatment durations, and care requirements. The approach aims to understand the experiences and needs of adaptive clothing users thoroughly. As a result, an effective adaptive design was developed, focusing on clothing that is not only functional and visually appealing but also genuinely meets the users' needs.