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Operational Assistance for Elderly People by Using Audio Rhythms
Hiroko Akatsu1, Akinori Komatsubara2
1Oki Electric Ind. Co., Ltd.
Studies in Health Technology and Informatics
|August 22, 2015
Summary
Audio rhythm guidance can help elderly users operate complex Information Technology (IT) devices like printers. However, excessively fast audio pacing negatively impacts user performance and experience.
Area of Science:
- Human-Computer Interaction
- Gerontology
- Usability Engineering
Background:
- Complex Information Technology (IT) devices require enhanced user support, especially for the elderly.
- High psychological and cognitive loads can hinder elderly users' interaction with devices.
- Voice guidance is a potential solution, but speed synchronization is critical.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of enhanced operational rhythm on reducing psychological load for elderly users of Multiple Function Printers (MFPs).
- To determine optimal audio pacing for voice guidance in complex device operation.
Main Methods:
- Elderly participants operated an MFP interface while listening to metronome tempos of 40, 60, and 120 bpm.
- Operational errors and completion times were recorded.
- Subjective feedback was gathered through interviews.
Main Results:
- Audio rhythm guidance proved effective in supporting elderly users.
- A metronome tempo of 120 bpm resulted in negative effects, indicating pacing is crucial.
- Lower tempos (40 and 60 bpm) were generally more beneficial.
Conclusions:
- Synchronized audio rhythm can significantly reduce psychological load for elderly users of complex IT equipment.
- Careful consideration of audio guidance tempo is necessary to avoid negative impacts on user performance.
- Further research into adaptive pacing based on user interaction is warranted.
