ABSTRACT

Objective: This study is an attempt to review the experience and meaning of smart home use by conducting phenomenological research among qualitative research methods for persons with physical disabilities (PwPDs) who have experienced time in the smart home. Methods: Data were collected through in-depth interviews and phone interviews for six PwPDs who have been using the smart homes for more than four weeks from March 8 to April 22, 2022. A data analysis was conducted based on the phenomenological data analysis presented by Giorgi. Results: As a result of the data analysis, 23 meaning units, 11 subordinate components, and 4 component elements were derived. The initial derived component elements are occupational profiles and home modification processes based on a smart home. Second, in the changed activities, difficulties in using the smart homes and enabling activities were identified. Third, participation in occupations included instrumental activities of daily living, health management, rest, and sleep. Fourth, technical improvement, program process, devices to be developed, and institutional support were derived as improvements and changes. Conclusion: The results of this study are expected to contribute to basic data on the smart homes that will be applied to the elderly and people with disabilities who suffer inconvenience in their daily lives owing to physical limitations.