Hybrid Ludo: Combination of a Tangible UI for Seniors and a Web-based Ludo Game

Abstract

During the ongoing pandemic, the need for senior-friendly remote communication systems became more than apparent. While communication could be switched with little effort from face-2-face to online video conferencing in many areas of life, these systems still provide barriers for a broad range of older people. In addition, the simple provision of a digital communication tool does not inherently provide opportunities for meaningful interactions and the creation of new memories. However, especially in times of (physical) contact limitations, it is not sufficient to do video telephony but also to engage in remote activities that are meaningful, playful, and lead to shared memories. We posit that a hybrid system offering tangible and web-based interactions, while each being adapted to the living situations of particular users (e.g. seniors and their younger relatives), can overcome the lack of meaningful engagement in existing video telephony systems. This paper provides a new interaction concept based on hybrid user interfaces and describes the development of a proof-of-concept prototype of a digital game of Ludo that comprises a senior-friendly tangible interface, a web-based interface, and an integrated video conferencing function.