How to Create a Website for Seniors
- 1). Ensure that the text is readable. Text that is in a sans serif typeface will be the clearest. Non-standard fonts, as well as standard serif fonts should be avoided. Use a font size of at least 12 points, and double space text if possible. The National Institute of Aging also recommends that web designers avoid overly flashy backgrounds, and sticking to a flat-colored background with a font color with a high contrast.
- 2). Avoid complex language in the text. The meaning should be obvious to the user and written in the active voice. If technical terms are used, there should be some type of straightforward way for the user to be able to find out their meaning, such as linking the term to the definition and so forth.
- 3). Keep multimedia simple and relevant. Images should be relevant to the text, and any multimedia such as audio and video, should be included being mindful that the user may not have advanced multimedia capabilities due to connection speed or computer speed.
- 4). Make navigation simple and intuitive. Links should be clearly labeled, and multiple clicks to access information should be limited to a single click if possible. Like the text, text on button images should be large (at least 12 point), and the design should be consistent throughout the entire website.
- 5). Limit the need for scrolling. Like web design for standard web users, the less interaction the senior needs to have to navigate the page the better. If scrolling is necessary, it should be through the scroll bar in the web browser, which is easiest for seniors to use. Additionally, scrolling text should be avoided.
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