Web usability for older adults: 7 keys to inclusive design
How to improve the digital experience for senior users with effective accessibility practices
Usability for older adults: keys to designing inclusive websites 👵💻
The global population is aging and, with it, the number of older adults who use the Internet daily is increasing. However, many websites and applications don't take into account their specific needs, causing frustration, task abandonment, and digital exclusion.
At Inclusif, we believe that accessibility is not just about complying with WCAG standards, but creating digital experiences that are friendly, intuitive, and universal. Below, we share the main recommendations for improving usability for older adults, based on Nielsen Norman Group studies:
1. Simple and clear designs 🎨
Cluttered interfaces with too many visual elements can be overwhelming. A minimalist design, with white space, clear hierarchies, and visible buttons, facilitates navigation.
2. Accessible typography and contrast 🔍
Older adults often have more limited vision. Therefore, it's essential to:
- Use large typography (minimum 16 px) and sans-serif fonts
- Maintain good contrast between text and background, following WCAG guidelines (level AA or AAA)
3. Intuitive and predictable navigation 🧭
Navigation should be coherent and easy to understand. It's recommended to:
- Offer simple menus with clear categories
- Avoid ambiguous section names or technical jargon
- Always include a "back" button or access to the main page
4. Easy-to-complete forms ✍️
Forms are one of the highest abandonment points. To improve them:
- Limit the number of fields to the minimum necessary
- Include clear labels and examples in the fields
- Use large and visible buttons
5. Sufficient time to perform tasks ⏳
Some older adults need more time to read, process information, or complete actions. Websites should:
- Avoid strict time limits (like sessions that expire quickly)
- Allow saving progress in forms or long processes
6. Use of visual aids and simple language 📖
Content should be written in direct and easy-to-understand language, avoiding technical terms. Additionally, icons and visual elements should accompany and reinforce information, not replace it.
7. Compatibility with assistive technologies ♿
It's crucial to ensure that the website is compatible with screen readers, digital magnifiers, and other devices that many older adults use to navigate.
Why is usability for older adults so important?
Designing with this group in mind is not only a matter of accessibility, but also of business. Older adults are an audience with great purchasing power and are increasingly digitally active. A website that's difficult to use is a lost customer.
How can Inclusif help you? 🚀
- At Inclusif, we help your company to:
- Audit your website to detect accessibility and usability problems
- Train your team in inclusive design
- Implement improvements that guarantee an accessible experience for all ages
The next step? Request a free audit with our analyzer and discover how to transform your website into an accessible space for everyone.
Source: https://www.nngroup.com/articles/accessibility-inclusivity-study-guide/