Details in a moment. Internet On The Air is a production of the University of Michigan School of Information and Michigan radio, made possible by a grant from the W.K. Kellogg Foundation. Although many senior citizens are taking advantage of the Web, researchers at the Georgia Institute of Technology claim that the Internet has not lived up to its potential for elderly users. Professor Wendy Rogers directs research on ways to make computer interfaces easier for the elderly to use. The project also looks at how to best provide the training and education that is needed to get seniors online.
Research shows that elderly users are more likely to get lost in complex Web sites.
Rogers urges Web site developers to use less busy layouts, with more clear and consistent linking options for senior viewers. Elderly users often worry about 'breaking' the system whereas younger people seem more willing to experiment. This might be the result of seniors' experiences with early computer systems, which were more likely to break as a result of user mistakes. Great potential also exists for Web applications such as online drugstores that mail prescriptions to your door. Electronic means of support such as these may help elderly people live more independently.