By Devendra Shrikhande, Senior Project Manager
The senior generation poses an interesting quandary for the Internet. The Web is in some ways is ideal to help this demographic in a variety of ways - from managing tasks and keeping in touch with the latest news - both national and the family.
However, a combination of various factors has conspired to make it difficult and our recent Geonetric Webinar addressed the complex aspects of this issue and how we can develop a Web presence to make it easier for seniors to not only use the Web but also make them feel more welcome.
While it may seem overdue, even technology suppliers are taking notice and Microsoft is positioning its new SeniorPCsproduct line to encourage seniors to use computers and move online.
The product line focuses on package driven approach to ease seniors online. Preloaded software covers the immediate tasks that are of interest for seniors such as email and instructional programs for basic home computing.
It is interesting to note that the computers also include a preloaded version of OnTimeRX a medication reminder that has alarms to notify the user of their prescription schedule. So, there is an inextricable link between the seniors, the web and healthcare.
So, what are the chances of such an effort being a success? Well, it depends on how you define success: Is it commercial or community? While one can applaud companies taking such initiatives, we do need to look at issues such as price points for these products still remain comparatively higher, and the fact that tools such as oversized keyboards and jumbo trackballs that help accessibility are considered extras.
Bringing seniors online is a complex issue and another example of how we need to bridge the digital divide. And as in most cases, it is collaboration between commercial and government initiatives that can help bridge this divide.
May 16, 2008 at 4:47 pm
I wrote about this before, and call me cynical but it seems like a marketing move on Microsoft’s behalf. What prevents seniors from venturing online I think is the intimidation of learning the computer and Internet, and I think what they need to overcome this is training and moral support, not a windows computer with some extra software thats branded for them.
Perhaps putting some user interface work into windows and making it easier to access for seniors and those who are starting from scratch learning computers, things like large fonts and less screen clutter. Something like the One Laptop per Child foundation is doing with the Sugar interface on their XO laptop might be a good approach.
May 17, 2008 at 10:12 am
I was very pleased to see this blog post, because it establishes a very important link between healthcare and technology.
A lot of people seem to think that ALL seniors are total illiterates when it comes to computers. That stereotype really bothers me, because it’s just not true. And worse yet, it further creates barriers to adoption for this demographic. Think about it… Most boomers worked with computers before retiring. According to AARP, and from what I’ve heard, they’re neither intimidated nor apathetic!
As the developer of OnTimeRx, the prescription manager software that was selected for the SeniorPC, I feel this senior-targeted marketing approach is a very good thing, and here’s why:
Being able to manage one’s own medications successfully is a requirement for independent living. The OnTimeRx prescription manager was included as a simple, practical solution that enables and empowers seniors to maintain their independence, which can prevent potential health problems caused by medication noncompliance. What’s that worth in healthcare dollars? Priceless!
If a senior sees a truly practical use for a computer, and relates it to managing medications and maintaining independence, there’s a powerful incentive to learn how to get around on it. These computers may be just the ticket to help overcome several other barriers – not the least of which is resistance to change. Very few are too old to learn new tricks…
We’ve all struggled to “give something back” to the parent or grandparent who has everything. These systems are really designed as a gift that keeps on giving by enabling families to stay connected through email and the Internet. To overcome one major barrier, the package is as “plug and play” as they could make it. But for the family who doesn’t have a home-grown geek to plug it in, the GeekSquad will install a SeniorPC and make sure everything is set up correctly.
Convenience comes at a price, but with a little government funding, those SeniorPCs could be a very small price to pay for healthy and engaged seniors! Who knows how many billions of healthcare dollars might be saved in the long run?
May 19, 2008 at 10:54 pm
I think this is a great discussion, mostly because the “senior” generation is so hard to define. My father will be 60 next year, yet he owns a 160 Gig iPod and spends more time on YouTube than most 30-somethings. He certainly wouldn’t fit the “senior” audience this new product is targeting.
On the other hand, I have three grandparents who have all taken the plunge into the World Wide Web at one time or another, starting with WebTV years ago. In each case, small computer issues (easily fixable by any experienced user) haven taken them offline for months or years at a time. Frustrated or embarassed to ask (or pay) for help, the computer starts collecting dust. Having everything set up correctly is great, but is only a fraction of the battle.
Another barrier for the generation is the investment in getting online. A high-speed connection is almost a necessity for a positive web experience these days. Add to that a pricey subscription to virus protection after the 60 day trial and you’re adding another $40 per month to a person on a fixed income. Granted, I don’t know anything about the pre-installed programs, the price tag for these new systems seems ridiculously high.
Build a system with a reasonable price tag for a fixed-income and an operating system that won’t encourage dust-bunnies (sorry Vista) and you might have a winner.