Exploration of Voice User Interfaces for Older Adults - A Pilot Study to Address Progressive Vision Loss
This study addresses the problem of accessibility to Information and Communications Technology (ICT) solutions for older adults, especially those with progressive vision loss, by exploring VUIs as an assistive technology.
This pilot study explored the potential of Voice User Interfaces (VUIs) as assistive technologies for older adults, particularly those experiencing progressive vision loss. The research involved an exploratory study with older adults and an in-depth follow-up with two participants to understand their specific needs.
Voice User Interfaces (VUIs) owing to recent developments in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Natural Language Processing (NLP), are becoming increasingly intuitive and functional. They are especially promising for older adults, also with special needs, as VUIs remove some barriers related to access to Information and Communications Technology (ICT) solutions. In this pilot study we examine interdisciplinary opportunities in the area of VUIs as assistive technologies, based on an exploratory study with older adults, and a follow-up in-depth pilot study with two participants regarding the needs of people who are gradually losing their sight at a later age.