Showing papers by "Ronald M. Baecker published in 2015"
18 Apr 2015
TL;DR: The findings suggest factors that facilitate and hinder the adoption of communication technologies, such as social, attitudinal, digital literacy, physical, and usability, and suggest solutions that may be helpful to HCI researchers working with this population.
Abstract: Adoption and use of novel technology by the institutionalized 'oldest old' (80+) is understudied. This population is the fastest growing demographic group in developed countries, providing design opportunities and challenges for HCI. Since the recruitment of oldest old people is challenging, research tends to focus on older adults (65+) and their use of and attitudes towards existing communication technologies, or on their caregivers and social ties. Our study deployed a novel communication appliance among five frail oldest old people living in a long-term care facility, which included field observations and usability and accessibility tests. Our findings suggest factors that facilitate and hinder the adoption of communication technologies, such as social, attitudinal, digital literacy, physical, and usability. We also discuss issues that arise in studying technology adoption by the oldest old, including usability and accessibility testing, and suggest solutions that may be helpful to HCI researchers working with this population.
92 citations
24 Aug 2015
TL;DR: It is argued that one methodological size does not fit all especially when it comes to usability evaluations with older adults, and senior-centred approaches and adaptations of established usability evaluation methodologies are proposed for discussion.
Abstract: The global population is becoming older, and the trend for this shift is only accelerating. At the same time, older adults are using the Internet and mobile technologies in increasingly large numbers. As evidenced by the proceedings of many conferences such as the ACM MobileHCI or the ACM CHI, the usability of interactive technologies designed for older adults is of significant concern. Yet, the methodologies we employ for designing and evaluating such interfaces are largely the same as those used for any other user group. In this position paper, we argue that one methodological size does not fit all especially when it comes to usability evaluations with older adults. We do so by reflecting on our own experiences with designing and evaluating interactive technologies for older adults (particularly for those over 80 years -- the "oldest old"). We then propose for discussion senior-centred approaches and adaptations of established usability evaluation methodologies.
21 citations