The number of senior citizens who use computers and the Internet grows every year. It’s important to consider the unique needs of older individuals when designing user experiences for websites, applications, and other digital platforms. In this article, we’ll explore four simple tips to improve user experience for the elderly. These tips can help ensure that older users can access and interact with digital content with ease and comfort.
Create high contrast between text and background
Creating high contrast between text and background is important for improving readability and accessibility, especially for older adults. By using visually distinct colors, designers can ensure that text stands out from the background, reducing eye strain and making content easier to read. Also, avoid placing text on the background of the image to avoid confusing the eyes
Make links and buttons large enough, and padding between them
This is especially important for older adults who often have reduced motor skills, as it helps reduce errors and frustration while improving navigation. Large buttons and generous padding make interacting with digital content easier, enhancing the overall user experience.
Minimize scrolling, avoid complex gestures
Many scrolling can be difficult for users with limited mobility or hand-eye coordination. Instead, consider presenting information in easily digestible chunks or using pagination to break up longer content. Additionally, complex gestures such as pinch-to-zoom or swipe can be confusing for some elderly users and may cause frustration or errors.
Change global navigation when necessary
Many older adults write down personal instructions on how to use a given website. Any changes made to those websites may then cause confusion in future visits. Though changes in site design are necessary, designers should consider the impact changes may have on seniors before making any changes.
