news
Society | DOI: 10.1145/1562164.1562173
Samuel Greengard
facing an age-old Problem
Researchers are addressing the computing challenges of older individuals,
whose needs are different—and too often disregarded.

It’s no sECrEt that computers and the Internet have changed society in ways that weren’t imaginable only a quarter-cen- tury ago. The ability to connect with other people all over the globe, read about events as they unfold, shop online, and manage information has profoundly changed the landscape— and mind-set—of modern society. More than three-quarters of households in the U.S. have computers, and the numbers are exploding all over the world.

Today, it’s difficult to imagine a world without computers. And while the so-called digital divide remains— the gulf between the affluent and poor in terms of computer accessibility— researchers are discovering that another important barrier exists. “Many older people face formidable challenges when it comes to using computers,” says Vicki Hanson, manager for the accessibility research group at IBM. “They are different from other segments of the population in terms of both cognitive and physical capabilities.”

The challenges of dealing with an aging world population haven’t been lost on researchers, psychologists, and technology designers. Although computer and software manufacturers have made some strides in building easier-to-use systems—including specialized Web browsers, ergonomic mice and keyboards, and accessibility functions such as the ability to zoom and magnify text and graphics—there is still a long way to go to provide a computing environment that’s ideal for older individuals.

“Technology creates a lot of potential in terms of enhancing the quality of life, independence, and well-being of older adults,” observes Sara J. Czaja, professor of psychiatry and behavioral sciences and director of the center on research and education for aging and technology at the University of Miami. “It opens up work and personal opportunities and allows older adults to stay socially connected. But this group has

creating an ideal computing environment for older adults poses many challenges.

 

different needs and they’re too often overlooked.”

 

age matters

As commerce, health care, government services, and work migrate online, the need to use computing devices is shifting from desirable to essential. According to Czaja, older individuals don’t have any particular aversion

“When people of
any age can’t figure
things out,” says
Sara J. czaja,
“they tend to avoid
the technology.”

to using computers and technology. “They are entirely receptive,” she says. So, where does the problem lie? “They often don’t understand the benefits or they’re unable to use the system easily,” she says. “When people of any age can’t figure things out, they tend to avoid the technology.”

The challenges are growing. As computing expands from desktop and notebook systems to a wider universe of devices—including phones, home entertainment centers, navigation systems in cars, security systems, and high-tech climate controls—older adults are increasingly feeling overwhelmed and frustrated. “There are a lot of older people who have a lot of trouble with mobile phones. They simply can’t use a typical phone because the interface is confusing and the buttons are too small,” Czaja explains.

Yet, poor vision, shaky fingers, and fading memory are only a few of the manifestations of older age. It’s not unusual for individuals to experience