Accessible mobile communications for older people with impairments
Older people want to ‘age in place’, and live safely, independently and comfortably in their own home and community. However, for many older people, this is compromised by the onset of impairments and declining health as a result of ageing. Functional impairments such as a reduced mobility, vision, hearing or manual dexterity and muscle strength can be tremendously frustrating, depressing and isolating; leading to social isolation and increased dependence on others for care. There is significant potential for the provision of effective accessible mobile communication technologies to enhance communication and safety and to support independent living for older people with impairments that can lead to significant improvements to their quality of life and overall sense of wellbeing.
Mobile communication technologies, particularly mobile phone technology has become a ubiquitous, adaptable and near ‘universal platform’ that supports many modes of communication, access to information and control systems, services and entertainment. However, mobile phone technology, like other technology-based products, is designed and marketed for younger, able, dextrous users who are comfortable with and enjoy using technology as an everyday part of their lives. For many older people with impairments, a group who could potentially derive great benefit from the improved sense of security, freedom of movement and improved social communication and lifestyle that mobile phone technology can offer, are unable to readily access and use most currently available products.
Barriers to the uptake and use of mobile phone technology by older people with functional impairments have occurred because of an inadequate knowledge of the design and functionality of these technologies and the lack of appropriate training and support needed. Older people with impairments are often disadvantaged by the difficulty of finding effective accessible mobile phone technology that meets their needs and capabilities; particularly in relation to usability and the challenges they face in learning how to use them. An understanding of the fundamental issues and enduring solutions to these problems will be significant to the ageing communities, especially those who have impairments.
This research aims to create an innovative evidence-based approach to supporting older people with functional impairments in identifying, selecting and using mobile communication technologies as aids to living independently as well as sustaining social networks and contact. The project will also identify the potential for accessible mobile communication technologies to provide a means for older people with impairments to summon assistance, monitor health and improve communication opportunities. The research will examine ways to effectively integrate mobile communication technologies into the daily lives of older people with impairments through tailored support, training, and innovative changes to technology application and design. Furthermore, the research will provide a fundamental understanding and insight into how older people with impairments learn about, understand and incorporate new technology in their daily lives, leading to significant improvements to their quality of life, physical and mental health status, confidence and ability to remain active and engaged members of the community.