Fashion & FUnction for Seniors

Introduction
As we age our bodies change and clothing that fitted us comfortably and stylishly no longer does and is hard to find. Seniors’ aging skin gets irritated with some fabrics and heavy materials may not be comfortable. Some elderly seniors can have challenges dressing themselves and may need others’ help more often with closures (buttons, zippers, etc.) This research is intended to identify what can be changed to improve seniors’ clothing, to use clothing to enhance appearance and celebrate aging bodies. Wearing stylish accessible clothing enhances seniors’ physical and psychological comfort as well as their social confidence and participation.

What You Will Be Asked to Do in this Research Questionnaire
In this 20 minute survey you will be asked about your choice of clothing and any possible issues and /or challenges you may have in regards to your existing or ready-made clothing, what doesn’t work for you and whether you got those issues fixed, what are the clothes you wish you had and can’t find in stores. Some other questions ask you about how you feel about your clothing, whether you need assistance putting on your clothing, and how your clothing make you feel as well as other similar questions.

* Please note that you can withdraw from answering at any time if you wish to discontinue.

* If you'd be willing to discuss the results of this survey further, please provide your email address here:

What is your most comfortable piece of clothing?

Why is this piece of clothing comfortable for you?

Do you alter (or have someone else alter) new clothing you get from stores?

If so, what do you change?

What do you look for when shopping for clothing?

If you can change one design function (part) of ready made clothing what would that be?

What designs would you like to see on your clothing? (i.e. abstract shapes, nature, city landscape, something personal, …)

What fabric materials do you like the most in your clothing?

Which fabric materials don’t you like in your clothing?

Why?

Do you find putting on your clothing can be challenging?

If so, what is the challenge? (Closing buttons, raising your arm, …)

Would you describe your style as Conservative or Original?

In what ways you see yourself dressing Conservative or Original?

What do you consider stylish clothing?

Would you like to wear stylish clothing?

Is your existing clothing noticeably stylish?