Dragon Grab Bars and Bamboo Canes: Exploring How Older Chinese Perceive Home Modifications and Assistive Devices
Mengzhao Yan, Maria Henke, Aaron Hagedorn, Li-Mei Chen, Jon Pynoos

TL;DR
This study explores how older Chinese Americans perceive home modifications and assistive devices, highlighting the importance of culturally tailored designs for aging in place.
Contribution
The study introduces a culturally focused perspective on home modifications and assistive devices for older Chinese Americans.
Findings
Older adults appreciated features that improved daily living and independence.
Cultural preferences influenced the design and acceptance of home modifications.
Occupational therapists played a key role in supporting home modifications.
Abstract
Aging in place continues to be the preference for most people, but the majority of homes are not equipped to handle their evolving care needs. Although home modifications and assistive devices can enable people to stay in their homes, previous research indicates that minority groups, who often have a stronger inclination to age at home, are less likely to modify their home environment. This issue is often compounded by the shortage of culturally tailored products and services. To explore how perceptions of home modifications and assistive devices are relevant to cultural backgrounds, this pilot qualitative study focuses on older Chinese Americans. Using person-environment fit and cultural adaptation as a framework, we conducted seven semi-structured, in-depth interviews in 2024 with four older Chinese Americans (aged 70 to 95) who made home modifications or used assistive devices and…
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Taxonomy
TopicsAssistive Technology in Communication and Mobility · Occupational Therapy Practice and Research · Technology Use by Older Adults
