Consumer Packaging Perceptions and Trends Open access Peer reviewed

The Role of Packaging in Smart Home Design

Nour Al Maalouf, Chaiwoo Lee

Proceedings of DRS | Jun 2, 2026

Abstract

Abstract

As technology becomes vital to aging independently, its first points of contact such as packaging influence accessibility and confidence. This study examines how older adults engage with technology through packaging. Nineteen Boston-based adults aged 65 to 85 interacted with three smart home kit packaging prototypes. Observations and interviews highlighted four main insights: Participants preferred (1) design that supported independent use, (2) visible organization of all components, (3) easy, tool-free opening, and (4) sustainable, recyclable materials. Ninety-five percent recalled past frustration with packaging that felt like it was meant “for someone else.” These results suggest that designing for longevity means rethinking the tactile and emotional entry points to technology. Packaging can serve as a bridge for inclusion and trust. Future research will focus on the other key barriers preventing older adults from integrating effectively with AgeTech.

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Authors

Researchers on this paper

Nour Al Maalouf

first | Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Chaiwoo Lee

last | Massachusetts Institute of Technology | ORCID 0000-0002-8835-4190

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BibTeX

@article{Maalouf2026Role,
  title = {The Role of Packaging in Smart Home Design},
  author = {Nour Al Maalouf and Chaiwoo Lee},
  journal = {Proceedings of DRS},
  year = {2026},
  doi = {10.21606/drs.2026.2076},
  url = {https://doi.org/10.21606/drs.2026.2076}
}

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