If seniors are having a hard time maneuvering their way around the internet, it is not entirely their fault. Eyes maybe failing, cognitive functions could be a little bit impaired but most definitely, these are not the only reasons why seniors commit one too many mistakes when using the internet. It can also be blamed to the usability a website may possess.
It was said that the senior group is amongst the top three internet users, alongside women and teens. It only goes to show that the complexity or modernity of computers never hinders a senior to use them frequently—and for many reasons, that is. Like any other new and shiny things, it can be learned and seniors are definitely eager to learn!
According to the same study mentioned earlier, it was found out that email application is the most popular among seniors. In fact, it is the first thing they check upon waking up in the morning. Running close on its tail are news, research and online payments. Amazingly, a new trend is making waves, the ever popular social networking.
Among the most visited sites by seniors are Google and Facebook. When it comes to gaming, women over 55 prefer games from sites like Game House and Pogo. And what do these sites have in common? One word: simplicity. Their simple, user-friendly interface charms seniors mightily and in a way, earn their loyalty. Preferences have nothing to do with seniors’ eyesight or their ability to concentrate and comprehend things but it seems that busy, giddy web designs have a lot to do with it.
Web designers who assume too much from their visitors have a lot to learn. When it comes to website usability, seniors must be the right group to approach as they know exactly what they want and what works perfectly for them. Poor design makes it hard for seniors to explore the site even more, discouraging them from discovering your site’s real potential. No matter how good your content is, when its texts are barely readable and links are hidden like it’s a game of finders keepers, then you must know your website will not be on any senior’s bookmarks.
