Design and Product Development

Using Participatory Design to Create and Test the Aesthetics and Functionality of an Adaptive Bra and Blouse

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Abstract

Many people live with residual physical limitations after a stroke. Hemiparesis or partial paralysis is one such result of a stroke. Persons with hemiparesis often have difficulties with gross and fine movements in their arms and hands. Women experience greater post-stroke disability than men (Petrea et al., 2009), creating gender-specific issues with dressing.  Routine actions such as buttoning a bra or zipping up a garment are difficult for many women stroke survivors. Women stroke survivors with hemiparesis in their upper extremities were recruited to provide input on the design and feedback of an easy to don and doff bra and blouse using Participatory design. 

Keywords: Participatory design, Hemiparesis., Women, Stroke, Blouse, Bra, Adaptive

How to Cite:

Shahani, M., (2020) “Using Participatory Design to Create and Test the Aesthetics and Functionality of an Adaptive Bra and Blouse”, International Textile and Apparel Association Annual Conference Proceedings 77(1). doi: https://doi.org/10.31274/itaa.11759