Design for Interaction Types in Smart Caring Homes

Abstract

Background This study focuses on the home environment where care recipients spend most of their time, highlighting smart homes as an integrated solution for addressing stakeholder disconnection in traditional homes. By applying a service design perspective, this study expands on the user experience aspect of smart homes beyond the technology-centered approach. Methods Case studies and a design workshop were conducted to establish the concept and interaction types of smart caring homes. Approximately 400 smart home service cases were analyzed, with 27 care-related cases selected to derive interaction types. Also, the interaction types from this study were validated from the design workshop with idea generation for diverse care scenes. Results Three interaction types were identified: One-way Care Type, Limited Care Sharing Type, and Extensive Care Sharing Type. User testing showed positive responses to each type, particularly in experiencing new forms of interaction. Conclusions The identified interaction types provide a framework for understanding user-stakeholder interactions, supporting efficient communication between care recipients and caregivers, and enhancing community connectivity. These types serve as a foundational resource for designing services tailored to care scenarios.