Elderly-Centric Chromatics: Unraveling the Color Preferences and Visual Needs of the Elderly in Smart APP Interfaces

Abstract

The survey found that many interactive interfaces of apps developed for the elderly on the market do not align with the visual characteristics of the elderly in terms of color configuration design. This mismatch greatly diminishes the usability and experience for elderly users. This research offers a meticulous analysis of user interface (UI) design for smart applications (APPs) specifically tailored for elderly users, focusing on enhancing visual functionality and protecting elderly users’ physical & mental health through scientifically configured colors. Against the backdrop of China’s aging population, this study implements the Hue, Saturation, and Lightness (HSL) model, and integrates methodologies from design, color theory, psychology, and statistics. Through visual simulation experiments, exhaustive questionnaires, and in-depth interviews, it was proposed that an APP interface color configuration design that meets the conditions of warm hue, high lightness, and medium saturation in the HSL model is most suitable for the elderly. The study also reveals a distinct aversion among the elderly toward colors with low lightness and specific cool hues.