Revisiting Design Trends For Older Adults A Year Later

When it comes to designing and developing for the older adult population, we've discussed the importance and implications in a previous article. As we wrap up the first quarter of 2024, we've had a chance to see what some of the more prominent standards are this year and what changes have taken place since 2023. Here are some of the big takeaways we've seen in the current design space geared for older adults:

Cool colors? Stick With Inclusive Colors

Leveraging strong color contrast with designs helps with readability and usability. On that note, it's also important to do live testing with members of the audience to verify that the color scheme you decide to go with doesn't appear faded to them.

Designing For Memory

One of the more common trends is one that is geared towards helping prevent memory or cognitive overload. When it comes to tasks that may require use or memory of previous actions taken, avoid splitting those tasks between different screens - group tasks based on the information that is needed

The Return of Walkthroughs

Onboarding screens and walkthroughs are making a recent comeback. These are great methods to introduce users to the platform, features, and other aspects of your product. Consider including simple and visual instructions to assist with demonstrating a feature or onboarding older adults onto your platform.

Big Is Better, But A Medium Does Exist

One of the big go-to patterns is 'make it big, bold, and simple'. There's actually a great medium stated by Matt Venn, that ends up empowering older adults as they age. Remember that motor & cognitive decline normally don't take place instantly. "Design for decline" and focus on reducing complex actions and making it easier to correct mistakes that are made.

These were just the most prominent among several trends (trust and safety, design for dementia, etc.) we've seen so far in 2024. It will be interesting to see if these change or go through further refinement over the course of the year. Are there certain things you have noticed, or things you believe would have a positive impact?