Senior surfers : older adults and their experiences with graphic user interfaces on the World Wide Web

Abstract

Today's older adults are a growing population world wide, who are generally healthier and more physically and financially able than previously. Growing numbers of older adults are gaining the abilities to use technology for their own informational benefits. Yet their needs are not being actively meet by technological innovations. There is limited research which outlines the needs of older adults in relation to the Internet and Graphic User Interfaces (GUI) on the World Wide Web (WWW), especially in New Zealand. This research interviewed a sample of older adults in order to identify inefficiencies on the GUI of New Zealand Public Library web sites, on the WWW, in particular, on public library web sites. The sample identified effective design features and navigational tools and useful instructions as pivotal aspects for user friendliness of GUI. The sample population suggested a number of ways which information professionals and libraries could assist them interact with GUI.