User Research Presentation (Power Point, 376 KB) In order to take advantage of research that had already been conducted, we read several papers and studies relating to the specific needs of elders. This research provided us with insights into important considerations for designing products and technology for seniors. Papers Bowe, F. "Why Seniors Don't Use Technology", in Technology Review, August/September 1998, 35-40. Forlizzi, J., DiSalvo, Carl., Gemperle, F. "Assistive Robotics and an Ecology of Elders Living Independently in Their Homes", in Human-Computer Interaction", 2004, Volume 19, pp. 25-29. Goncalves, Daniel Jorge Viegas. "Ubiquitous Computing and AI Towards an Inclusive Society", in WUA UC'O1, May 22-25, 2001. Morris, M., Lundell, J., Dishman, E. "Catalyzing Social Interaction with Ubiquitous Computing: A needs assessment of elders coping with cognitive decline", at CHI 2004, April 24–29, 2004. Morris, M., Lundell, J., Intille, S. "Home Technologies to Keep Elders Connected", at CHI 2004, April 24–29, 2004. Ogozalek, Virginia Z. "A Comparison of the Use of Text and Multimedia Interfaces to Provide Information to the Elderly", at CHI94, 4/94. Literature Review Findings Elders want to maintaining personal identity,dignity and independence Functionality is primary (unlike younger generations where style is important). Important to look at entire ecology of aging: How their environment changes as they get older, how relationship with family changes User group Well Elders: Mobile, cognitively intact, able to maintain household alone. Elders seldom find reasons to develop relationships with new products as they age, b/c less income, physical space smaller, fewer social interactions Elders often use products to project an image about their previous life (grand piano in home, even though can’t play anymore, to show how her life once was) Fear of the unknown is often a barrier to purchasing or acceptance of new products. Volunteer activities strongly define an elder’s sense of self and personal identity User Group Characteristics Values Remaning autonomous Sustaining personal growth Helping others Maintaining social ties Experiencing pleasures Activities Family Outings Visits to friends’ homes Meals Volunteer activities Religious and community events Sharing photos with family and friends