12 ICT IN THE FUTURE


Report A: Introduction


There has been much debate about the extent to which older people are excluded from the benefits of developments in computing technology. In order that all age groups can benefit equally from these improvements, it is important that older people feel positive about new developments and how they can benefit from them. This report will describe a survey undertaken to examine the differences in the perception of new computer technologies between younger and older adults. Recommendations will be made on how older adults can be encouraged to feel more positive about new technological developments.


Report A: Conclusion


To conclude, it is clear that there are a number of differences between the younger and older adults in terms of their perceptions of the benefits of new developments in computing. The evidence suggests that the issues identified should be taken into account when designing new computer devices and services. Older adults should be included in the groups used to test new prototypes, so that designs can take their requirements into account. In particular, these relate to the speed with which they can familiarize themselves with the product or service and the extent to which they feel control over it. More attention should also be given to publicizing the beneficial effects of new computer developments for older people. Unless these recommendations are put into practice, older adults will not fully realize the benefits of new developments in computing.


Report A


90 80 70 60 50 40 30 20 10 0


% yes Younger adults = 18–25 % no No opinion Older adults = 45–65


Figure 1: Perception of new developments in computing as being beneficial to society generally


90 80 70 60 50 40 30 20 10 0


% yes Younger adults = 18–25 % no No opinion Older adults = 45–65


Figure 2: Perception of new developments in computing as being beneficial to respondents’ particular age range


Report A


Literature search notes on issues relating to differences in perception of benefits in new developments in computing between younger and older adults Issues identified


Context 1 familiarity with new more publicity for older adults highlighting the benefits of new technology;


computer technologies more free training courses would make it easier for older adults to use computers; 2 publicizing benefits of computing


older adults less likely to see information and publicity reflecting potential of new computer technologies;


older adults need to be involved in the design of interfaces;


3 different age groups receiving training in using computer products helps users view computers in design of interfaces generally more positively;


extent to which adults use computers in their daily lives affects the extent to which they view computers favourably;


4 more training for older adults


different age groups have different needs in terms of design interfaces; interfaces may not be as intuitive for older adults;


providing more detailed advice when purchasing electronic devices may help older adults use them more effectively; older people often have poorer eyesight


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