AUTHOR=Fakhimi Mohammad Mahdi , Hughes Adriana , Gustavson Allison M. 

TITLE=Human-centered design for smart home technologies: a framework for aging and mental health

JOURNAL=Frontiers in Digital Health

VOLUME=Volume 7 - 2025

YEAR=2025

URL=https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/digital-health/articles/10.3389/fdgth.2025.1555569

DOI=10.3389/fdgth.2025.1555569

ISSN=2673-253X

ABSTRACT=Smart home technologies (SHTs) offer promising ways to support older adults with both mobility challenges and mental health needs, yet high costs, complex interfaces, and uncertain data practices often limit adoption. This paper addresses these challenges by proposing a human-centered design (HCD) framework focused on affordability, inclusive design for physical and cognitive variations, and transparent data governance. Through illustrative examples of low-cost sensor networks and culturally tailored voice interfaces, we argue that thoughtfully designed SHTs can promote independent living, strengthen mental health interventions, and foster user trust. We conclude by highlighting policy incentives and cross-sector collaboration as critical levers for making SHTs an accessible, sustainable tool for aging populations.