Differences in Computer Performance Across Age Groups

ABSTRACT

Computer use is becoming an essential part of modern day living. Computers can be used to assist well functioning of disabled persons in doing with day-to-day tasks, as well as essential and sophisticated functions of daily life. Aging can affect the learning ability of elders confronted with new computer technology. In this work, a simplified software system, Platform for Interface and Assistance Evaluation (PLEIA), for evaluating and intervening with older adults and people with disabilities on computer use is presented. This platform allows the control of different tools (PC games, robot, and electric wheelchair) using different interfaces (mouse, joysticks, etc.). Measurable targets to define the ease of use are defined for evaluation purposes. The system is tested by the subjects of different age groups. Our goal is to determine the learning curve that is the change in performance with time as it varies by age.

KEYWORDS. :

• older adults
• rehabilitation
• computer-based training
• human computer interface (HCI)