Design and Evaluation of a Smart Jacket for Enhancing Safety in Individuals with Hearing Loss and Non-Verbal Impairments

Abstract

Technology plays a crucial role in enhancing the quality of life for individuals with hearing loss and non-verbal impairments, particularly through advancements in the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR). This study focuses on designing a smart jacket to improve personal safety by integrating features such as global positioning system (GPS) tracking, light emitting diode (LED) signalling, and a life-saving mechanism activated by a single button. When the button is pressed, it triggers global system for mobile communications (GSM) and GPS modules, sending visual and audible alerts while tracking the user’s location. A survey involving 50 respondents, including members of the Malaysia Federation of the Deaf and students from Politeknik Ibrahim Sultan, was conducted to evaluate the jacket's design, usability, and overall acceptance. The results revealed high levels of satisfaction, with mean scores of 3.76 for design, 3.89 for usability, and 3.85 for overall acceptance. These findings suggest that the jacket meets user expectations and demonstrates significant potential to enhance outdoor safety for the target population. The practical implications of the jacket include reducing the vulnerability of people with hearing loss and non-verbal impairments in emergencies by providing reliable communication and location tracking. Moreover, it underscores the importance of user-centred design in assistive technology, paving the way for further innovations in wearable safety devices for individuals with disabilities. By leveraging the 4IR technologies, this multifunctional jacket addresses critical safety needs and contributes to improving the independence and well-being of individuals in modern society.