고령 여성의 주관적 신체변화와 건강상태 정도에 따른 의생활 조사

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to most appropriately design clothing for female senior citizens by taking into account their levels of body satisfaction and clothing purchase preferences based on their self-perception of physical changes related to the aging process and their health status. A total of 212 questionnaires were completed between October 2015 and February 2016 by women aged 65 years old and over in the metropolitan area of Seoul, South Korea. The subjects were still mobile enough to be able to walk without difficulty. The group of respondents who perceived that their upper bodies had bent or curved since their 20s were significantly less satisfied with their chests, waists, abdomen, and most lower body parts when choosing clothing than those respondents who did not perceive any bending in the upper body. Note that a self-awareness of bending or curvature in the upper body also impacted satisfaction levels with clothing in the lower body. In regards to clothing purchase preferences, there were significant differences between those respondents who perceived that their bodies had changed shape and those who did not. Those respondents with a perception of upper body shape changes paid particular attention to the weight of clothes, how well they fit and whether or not the clothes in question made them look younger. Further, those whose weight had changed paid more attention to the weight of the clothes, how well they fit, design and sizes. Perceptions of health status was not a relevant factor. This indicates that older women who are aware that their body shape has altered pay particular attention to several clothing factors when purchasing and wearing clothing.