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Mobile Phone Background Design for Older Adults: A Case Study of Line
Author(s)
Date Issued
April 1, 2019
Type
Article
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to examine how visual characteristics like the background image could affect usability of mobile apps for older adults, using a case study of the Line messaging application. Older adults typically have a lower use of mobile Internet technologies, because of both visual and cognitive barriers and attitudes and resistance to change. The study was conducted as a qualitative observational study of 40 older adults, who were offered a brief training session on Line and then monitored at three times over a three-week period. The findings showed that post-training, many participants did change their backgrounds to suit colour preferences, mood, or vision needs. Adopters also self-discovered features like group-based background colours. Although there were a few non-adopters remaining, the study showed that training in app use encouraged senior users to use the app and to adapt it to their needs. The implication is that app-specific training could improve senior use of mobile apps.
Citation
International Journal of Computer Theory and Engineering, 11(2), 31-34, 2019