Mobile Phone Background Design for Older Adults: A Case Study of Line

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.