| The focus of this study was an exploration of Third Age adults' perceptions of the usefulness of senior related websites. Naturalistic inquiry was used with an emergent design to consider the insights, thoughts, and perceptions of Third Agers with regard to the Internet in general and specifically senior related websites. Six case studies were conducted with women volunteers who qualified as Third Agers, had access to a computer and the Internet, and had some level of experience on the Internet. Within case and cross case analysis was conducted and each case provided insights into topics of interest and the perceived usefulness of senior related sites.; The majority of the Third Agers in this study felt the senior related websites were useful depending on the individual's interest in the topics and relevant issues of usability. Other topics that emerged within the cases include the impact of people and interaction, the influence of curiosity, humor, and practicality, and an interest in learning.; Findings in the cross case analysis identified three primary factors that influenced the Third Age participants' perception of usefulness for senior related websites. These factors include motivation for accessing the Internet, personal interest in content topic areas, and four enabling factors including technical support, user-friendly technology, computing skills, and usability issues. These factors led to the identification of three themes applicable to web designers and content specialists. The first theme that emerged was an interest in specific content topics in a website, but not identification with an online community. The second theme expanded on the idea of content as a senior related resource with the expectation of topics directly related to age and lifestyle as a Third Ager. The final theme was the need for websites designed with beginners in mind, not a stereotype of older adults. Five descriptive elements are suggested for the design of useful senior related websites for Third Agers. |
