Toward Adaptive User Interface Design Strategies for Older Adults: A Thematic Analysis

Abstract

Older adults face challenges when interacting with digital technologies due to cognitive decline, perceptual limitations, motor difficulties, and security and privacy concerns. While these barriers hinder their use of this technology that supports independence and quality of life, an Adaptive User Interface (AUI) offers a dynamic solution. This study implemented several methodological stages, starting with an exploration-based study to identify older adults’ challenges when interacting with mobile health (mHealth). Next, a thematic analysis was conducted on 42 published articles identified using PRISMA to investigate relevant AUI design strategies for overcoming the usability challenges. As a result, seven adaptive design strategies were generated and clustered: 1) simplified learning processes through multi-layered interfaces, minimize user interaction, and user-specific suggestions; 2) adaptive customization and personalization including user profile-based customization, personalized interfaces, and split interfaces; 3) usability-based design through content-oriented navigation and familiar elements; 4) persuasive just-in-time adaptations for timely support; 5) adaptations based on user capabilities; 6) integration of assistive technologies, and 7) privacy and security strategies to reinforce user trust. These strategies were systematically mapped to the identified challenges, such as cognitive challenges, dexterity issues, and privacy concerns, providing a structured design roadmap. Protecting personal health-related data is paramount in the mHealth domain, creating a unique and significant challenge to identify and shape the design solutions for secure and usable end-user interactivity. The thematic synthesis to derive meaningful design strategies contributes to establishing actionable guidelines for developers to create AUI that enhances usability, inclusivity, and sustained engagement among older adults.