Innovative apparel designs, combined with unique capabilities and intimate care and concern, can benefit all sectors of society, including people with emotional or behavioural disorders who need special care. The "Anti-strip Jumper", recently developed by The Hong Kong Research Institute of Textiles and Apparel (HKRITA), is a good example. The new jumpsuit's thoughtful design is more comfortable than the previous attire and deters the wearers from removing their diapers at inappropriate times, thus improving their quality of life through better hygiene. At the same time, it gives caregivers in care centres more time to take care of their other needs.

The improved design of the "Anti-strip Jumper" developed by the research team includes mixing and matching different materials for a trendy style, thus getting rid of the labelling effect of traditional jumpsuits which look more like a medical uniform in terms of design and colour. Intensive testing for breathability, water resistance and breaking load was undertaken with a variety of fabrics, to withstand the rigorous demands of the laundry process in care centres whilst also addressing the issue of the sensitive skin of elderly patients. These tests ensured that the fabric used in the new jumpsuits would meet international standards for function and durability, and also be comfortable for the wearers.

Functional darts were incorporated into the jumpsuit design to better fit the 3D contours of the body, allowing a greater range of unrestricted movement for the wearer. A double layer of velcro and a stand collar design were found to act as an effective barrier to prevent the wearer from spontaneously removing their diapers. In order to provide easier dressing for patients with impaired mobility, a Velcro opening was added on one side of the shoulder position of the jumpsuit. In addition, a mesh panel was placed in the upper back area of the jumpsuit so as to increase the breathability of the whole garment.

Four centres under the Tung Wah Group of Hospitals were invited to take part in the project trial. The care homes participated in three wearer trials, each lasting two weeks, during the project period. After each trial, researchers collected opinions from caregivers to improve the design, comfort and functionality of the jumpsuits. The research results will also provide a comprehensive reference for similar organisations.

Established in April 2006 under the funding of the Innovation and Technology Commission of the HKSAR Government, HKRITA aims to provide a one-stop service for applied research, technology transfer and commercialisation, and to help facilitate the textile and clothing industries to enhance their high value-added manufacturing and servicing activities, helping to sharpen Hong Kong’s competitive edge in the global textile market.