Designed for the elderly : An inquiry into interface design for an elderly audience

In order to compile a comprehensive representation of the available guidelines regarding interface design for an elderly audience, the available literature was scoured. A prototype interface was then produced based on the guidelines produced from this in combination with previously established needs among elderly that are subject to home care. Six subjects participated in a series of usability test that were implemented to evaluate the design of the prototype, along with complementary interviews that served to investigate the subject’s attitudes towards such a product that the prototype represents in general. The chosen method for these usability tests proved problematic and appropriate measures had to be implemented in order for the tests to produce adequate data. The results of the attuned method showcased an expected animosity towards the type of technology used in the tests while at the same time demonstrating the perceived redundancy in the product due to already established systems in use by the subjects as well as the requirements for such a product to be viable. That is primarily the extended ability to contact and/or communicate with caregivers that such a product offers