Perception About Usability and Consumption Aspects of Clothing Products by Elderlies with Parkinson's Disease: A Preliminary Study in Brazil

Abstract

Clothing is a layer that protects the body and translates the individual's identity. Its use should promote well-being and quality of life, bringing comfort and satisfaction. The increase in longevity showed a new form of clothing consumption and, even more, when these users have some limiting conditions for manipulating and using, it can affect independence. Some people may have motor difficulties for dressing and need manual precision to be performed, such as those with slow movements, tremors, and involuntary movements (characteristics of Parkinson's disease). In this way, the article aimed to understand some aspects of the elderlies' perceived usability and consumption of clothing products (with Parkinson's disease and neurologically matched healthy individuals). Therefore, a questionnaire was applied in a semi-structured interview to understand factors about consumption and usability. The results showed broad perceptions from the product development perspective about clothing and stages that can be difficult. Future studies should investigate more symbolic issues relevant to the product's consumption, doing practical tests of daily clothes for the users and giving insights to industry and practitioners.