What are the most effective ways to test product concepts with elderly people?

Knowing your group is a very good starting point. Especially immersion will work magic on designing your test process. Observations and engagement before hand will give you great insight into forming your design story -a scenario for the testing of your prototype-. Without proper storytelling it would be very hard for them to visualise and create context with your design or innovation -for any age this is valid, yet for the elderly they tend to stick to the things they know by heart and develop a sense of fear of the new and unknown and orient to new things harder- Always test your scenario not your product.

Según mi experiencia es relativamente fácil imaginarse lo que haría alguien del grupo objetivo, pero nos bastó solo una vez interactuar con ellos para darnos cuenta que estábamos en un ENORME error en muchas de las premisas que teníamos. Podría darles un arquetipo de lo que concluí del adulto mayor, pero también aprendí que por lo distintos que son posiblemente mi arquetipo sea muy distinto al adulto mayor que tienen frente a ustedes. Lo mejor es conocerlos, darles el espacio para jugar con el producto y verán que con un solo grupo sacan información valiosa para los demás segmentos. Una abuela se comporta similar a una mamá y si el botón el adulto mayor no lo ve el usuario más joven lo ignora y es por eso que son de mucha ayuda.

Understand the diverse needs of the elderly population: Before testing any product concept, it is crucial to have a deep understanding of the diverse needs and preferences of the elderly population. Consider factors such as physical abilities, cognitive functions, lifestyle choices, and individual preferences to ensure that your product caters to a wide range of users. Conduct thorough research through various methods: Utilize a variety of research methods such as interviews, surveys, observations, personas, and scenarios to gather insights from elderly individuals. By involving them in the research process and respecting their opinions and feedback, you can gain valuable insights that will help shape your product design.

Testing product concepts with elderly individuals, it is crucial to choose appropriate methods based on the stage of development and feedback goals. Common methods include focus groups, usability tests, prototype testing, and co-design sessions. Focus groups generate ideas and explore opinions but may be influenced by group dynamics. Usability tests evaluate functionality and usability but can be affected by environmental factors. Prototype testing validates feasibility and desirability but depends on prototype fidelity. Co-design sessions involve users in the design process but require more time and facilitation skills. Adapting these methods to specific contexts ensures valuable feedback for refining product concepts for elderly users.

To effectively test product concepts with elderly individuals, thorough preparation is crucial. This includes selecting diverse participants who can provide valuable feedback, recruiting them ethically and respectfully, and compensating them fairly. Designing a clear test protocol, materials, and questions that are relevant and respectful is essential. Setting up a comfortable and accessible test environment with user-friendly equipment is important. Training facilitators to be friendly, professional, and empathetic ensures a positive testing experience. By preparing well, you can gather meaningful insights to refine your product design for elderly users.

During the test, it is essential to adhere to the test protocol and prioritize the rights and dignity of participants. Introduce yourself, explain the purpose of the test, and obtain informed consent before proceeding. Clearly outline the procedures and expectations to ensure participants feel comfortable and informed. Listen attentively, observe their interactions with the product concept, and ask open-ended questions to gather valuable feedback without leading or interrupting. Encourage and support participants throughout the testing process, thanking them for their input and addressing any concerns promptly. Record and document data accurately while maintaining confidentiality and security measures to protect participants' privacy.

Following the test, it is crucial to analyze the data collected to extract relevant insights for your product concept. Utilize various techniques such as coding, categorizing, mapping, and visualizing to organize and synthesize the data effectively. Triangulate data from different sources and methods to ensure comprehensive analysis and identify patterns, themes, and discrepancies. Validate the results by seeking feedback from participants and other stakeholders to confirm the accuracy and relevance of the insights gathered. By thoroughly analyzing the results and involving key stakeholders in the validation process, you can refine your product concept based on valuable feedback and enhance its alignment with the needs of elderly users.