Onramp to the Internet for Seniors: Beyond Email

Abstract

The number of older Americans is rapidly increasing and these individuals have unprecedented opportunities to improve their quality of life. However, one valuable option, the Internet, is passing many seniors by. The Internet can provide older adults with many valuable services, but in particular it can provide increased social interaction, which can relieve some of the isolation that many seniors feel. Unfortunately, many older adults have had limited exposure to the Internet and have been unable to take advantage of the opportunities it can offer. This purpose of this instructional design project was to develop and evaluate a senior-friendly introduction to online communication. The Web-based instructional design module focused on audio calls and text messaging, providing senior learners with background information and how-to instruction. The project was also designed to test and evaluate best practices for providing older adults with effective instruction by incorporating design elements and technologies to allow full accessibility for those suffering from age-related physical and cognitive decline. Project testing showed that the design elements and technologies used to specifically address the needs of older learners were successful in helping older adults to learn and to embrace the new technologies presented.