Usable computers for the elderly: applying coaching experiences

Computer technology promises great potential to improve the quality of life and foster independence of the elderly. However, this population has special problems learning how to use computers and the Internet. Research studies have been conducted with older users to identify better ways to design user interfaces for the elderly and the best ways to train older users. To augment this research, the authors have begun collecting and analyzing the observations of people who informally coach the elderly. This paper reports the results of our preliminary research.