Mouse Accelerations and Performance of Older Computer Users

Abstract

In general, as people age, their movement control performance gets worse. Older adults take longer than younger adults to make similar movements. In this study we compared older and younger experienced computer users on their ability to use a mouse to position a cursor. The distance of the movements and the size of the targets were varied to represent a broad range of cursor control tasks that would be used on a computer. We also investigated the effects that dynamic gain adjustment had on performance for both age groups. Our results showed that older adults are both slower and less accurate when using the mouse. There was evidence that the age-related difference in performance was greater when the target size was smaller. Some of the difference in age-related performance could be ameliorated by using a specific dynamic gain function. The results are used to discuss possible age-related computer interface design guidelines INTRODUCTION

http://www.nihseniorhealth.gov: the process of construction and revision in the development of a model web site for use by older adults

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