Abstract

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The global ageing population and the rising average life expectancy present significant social and economic challenges. Ensuring prolonged independence and mobility for older adults is essential to reduce unnecessary institutionalisation and hospitalisation. One promising solution lies in the integration of the Internet of Things (IoT) with textiles, leveraging the close and constant contact individuals have with clothing. This paper reviews current developments in IoT-enabled textiles aimed at enhancing the mobility of the elderly. The findings indicate that this is an emerging area of interest; however, dedicated research focusing explicitly on mobility enhancement remains limited. While some existing studies suggest potential for supporting physical capabilities, they were not specifically designed for that objective. This paper argues for a targeted approach to addressing elderly mobility through IoT-based wearable technologies, emphasising the broader societal implications of neglecting this issue.

Keywords: Internet of Things (IoT), Smart Clothing, Smart Textiles, Mobility, Elderly