Older Adults and Digital Technology

Preconceptions of Technology Adoption in Older Adults

Most people think of panic buttons, desktop computers, and big-button telephones when considering technology for older adults. There is often a perception that older adults may not be proficient with smartphones and might feel scared, anxious, or stigmatized when introduced to new technologies. However, technology can also promote feelings of independence, safety, and reassurance.

Changing Engagement with Technology

Older people's engagement with technology is increasing. Smartphone and tablet ownership is growing, and they are becoming more engaged with social media. Many older people use smartphones, laptops, tablets, and fitness trackers. They use video chat and platforms like Zoom to stay connected, especially after the COVID pandemic. New technologies like virtual reality and smart home devices are also emerging.

Positive Feelings Towards Technology

Many older adults have positive feelings about technology, such as feeling connected, excited to try new things, in control, supported, proficient, and efficient.

Factors Influencing the Shift

  • COVID-19 has driven many older people to learn new technologies like Zoom.

  • Many services like banking have been digitized, creating a need to learn new skills.

  • Global migration of family and friends.

  • Genuine interest and excitement from older people in regards to new technology.

Virtual Reality

Virtual reality provides a simulated, immersive experience often used with VR goggles. It has applications in:

  • Reminiscence therapy for dementia patients.

  • Social interaction using avatars.

  • Exercise.

  • Virtual travel.

Important to ensure safety with proper setup and calibration. Most research is conducted in aged care settings. Jeremy Wake Up at the University of Melbourne has done a lot of work in this space.

Alexa and Smart Speakers

Smart speakers like Alexa can assist older adults, but stereotypes exist. Challenges include:

  • Older people may forget the wake word or the question they asked.

Features that help:

  • Repetition and extra loud features for those who are hard of hearing.

  • Environmental control through devices like thermostats can benefit people with mobility issues.

  • Provides a sense of social interaction.

  • Screens can help improve trust in the information provided.

Research in the Wild

Research in the wild involves embedding technology in people's homes to observe their interactions over time. This approach provides rich insights into how people use the devices, their usefulness, and whether usage is sustained beyond the initial novelty.

Connected Devices

Various connected devices are available, including:

  • Pill boxes.

  • Asthma inhaler monitors.

  • Blood pressure monitors.

  • Thermometers.

  • Pulse oximeters.

  • Smart lights and heating.

These devices can help older adults manage their health and improve their quality of life, providing peace of mind and security.

Designing Technology with Older Adults
Designing For vs. Designing With

Designing For (User-Centered Design):

  • Led by researchers, starts with client requirements.

  • Technology-led (e.g., Woolworths app).

  • Users engaged mostly in testing phases, leading to design iterations.

Designing With (Co-design or Participatory Design):

  • Involves users in the design process at every point.

  • Iterative nature with back and forth between users and design team.

  • Aims to understand why people are experiencing a problem before suggesting solutions.

  • Considers many possible solutions before deciding.

  • Time-consuming but worthwhile.

Co-design Insights

  • Grocery shopping is a social activity.

  • Shopping is done at the same time each week.

  • Price of groceries has increased, so they buy what's on offer.

  • Shop in the morning when it’s quiet.

  • Cook small single meals or one big meal eaten throughout the week.

  • Eat similar things every week.

  • Stores are too big, busy, and expensive.

  • Frequent users of Facebook and Messenger.

  • Use apps like online banking and brain training games.

  • Perception of Woolworths app: nicely designed but not relevant.

Co-created Ideas

  • Function to check busy areas in store.

  • Request items on offer near end-by date at a discount.

  • Special offers for frequently bought items.

  • Share ideas on Facebook.

  • Check mobility scooter availability.

  • Notifications at a dedicated time.

  • Marketing push to raise app awareness.

Double Diamond Approach to Co-design

  1. Discover: Understand the challenge.

  2. Define: Specify the challenge to address.

  3. Develop: Generate ideas and a product/service.

  4. Deliver: Test and refine the product/service.

Cyclical maturation process of development and delivery until participants are satisfied.

Key Principles for Accessibility

  • Simplicity is key.

  • Use technology grounded in their real world (e.g., WhatsApp, digitized versions of familiar tools).

  • Use built-in accessibility features (e.g., larger screen, writing).

  • Make life easier, not harder (avoid complex steps).

Privacy and Security

  • Privacy: The right to control how your information is stored and used.

  • Security: Protection against threats or danger.

Why is Data Valuable?

  • Health Services: Use data for prioritization and preventative services.

  • Targeted Advertising: Can lead to untrustworthy products.

  • Pharmaceutical Companies: Data helps turn a profit, but older people may feel used.

  • Utilities: Smart meters collect usage data, which could reveal when someone isn't home.

  • Insurance Companies: Predict likelihood of payouts, potentially leading to higher rates for older people.

  • Malicious Intent: Steal money or identity; older people are often targeted in this context.