In this final post of the semester, I want to come back to some of the research questions I defined at the beginning of this journey, especially the two different directions this topic can take. I believe the challenge of older adults struggling with technology can be approached in two ways: one focuses on how interaction design can support them in learning digital skills, while the other asks how we, as designers, can make digital systems easier to understand in the first place.
Interaction design can support older adults in learning digital skills by acting as a something like a cognitive guide that reduces mental effort, aligns with their unique conceptual frameworks and fosters the trust for experimentation.
As Designers we can try:
1. Aligning with Seniors’ Mental Models
- Older adults conceptual models of technology often differ significantly from the screen-centered logic used by younger generations. [1]
- Linear Logic over Screen-Based Logic: Seniors frequently intuitively adopt a linear, storytelling-like approach to interactions. Interaction design can support learning by using step-by-step narratives rather than multi-layered, interactive screens that can be disorienting. [1]
- Contextual Clarity: Older users may confuse similar UI elements, such as address bars and search fields. Design should use explicit, consistent wording and “polite” system feedback, to align with their social expectations and provide a sense of security. [1]
- Separating Interface from Implementation: Seniors often struggle to distinguish between the frontend (what they see) and the backend (how it works). Design that clearly defines the interface as a “method of communication” might help them grasp the abstract nature of software. [1]
2. Teaching Strategies
Secondly it would be possible to teach elderly people about systems and how they work. Instruction for older adults is most successful when it moves away from standard methods and aligns with the cognitive preferences of the age group.[1]
- Align with Linear Mental Models: Seniors often approach technology through a “storytelling” or linear logic rather than the screen-based, multi-layered logic common in modern software. Designing learning paths that follow a step-by-step narrative can help them internalise abstract concepts.[1]
- Abstract Thinking Exercises: Before diving into software, starting with exercises like drawing symbols for abstract terms can prepare seniors for the conceptual nature of digital interfaces. [3]
- Minimise Cognitive Friction: Instruction should focus on minimising friction by reducing the number of steps required to complete an action, which supports those who process fewer “discrete information bits” at one time. [4]
- Provide Task Support: Using external cues, reminders and labels, known as environmental support, can compensate for memory decline and improve performance to the level of younger learners. [2]
Next Steps
I already have some ideas for the next steps. I’d like to dive deeper into the interaction side of this topic and as mentioned in the presentation, I’m also considering running a workshop. While researching similar projects, I found that when working with older adults, confidence and trust are often bigger hurdles than the technology itself.
Sources
[1] D. Orzeszek et al., ‘Beyond Participatory Design: Towards a Model for Teaching Seniors Application Design’, arXiv [cs.CY]. 2017.
[2] F. Craik, ‘Memory Changes in Normal Aging’, Current Directions in Psychological Science – CURR DIRECTIONS PSYCHOL SCI, vol. 3, pp. 155–158, 10 1994.
[3] Thefinchdesignagency, “Building User Trust in UX Design: Proven Strategies for Better Engagement,” Medium, Feb. 05, 2025. https://medium.com/@thefinchdesignagency/building-user-trust-in-ux-design-proven-strategies-for-better-engagement-c975aa381516
[4] G. A. Wildenbos, L. Peute, and M. Jaspers, “Aging barriers influencing mobile health usability for older adults: A literature based framework (MOLD-US),” International Journal of Medical Informatics, vol. 114, pp. 66–75, Jun. 2018, doi: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijmedinf.2018.03.012.
[5] N. Halmdienst, M. Radhuber, and R. Winter-Ebmer, “Attitudes of elderly Austrians towards new technologies: communication and entertainment versus health and support use,” European Journal of Ageing, vol. 16, no. 4, pp. 513–523, Apr. 2019, doi: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10433-019-00508-y.
[6] F. Craik, ‘Memory Changes in Normal Aging’, Current Directions in Psychological Science – CURR DIRECTIONS PSYCHOL SCI, vol. 3, pp. 155–158, 10 1994.