Work-in-Progress: Older Adults' Experiences With an Augmented Reality Communication System
Authors: 
Veronika Mikhailova, Christian Kunert, Jakob Hartbrich, Tobias Schwandt, Christoph Gerhardt, Alexander Raake, Wolfgang Broll, Nicola DöringAuthors Info & Claims
Veronika Mikhailova, Christian Kunert, Jakob Hartbrich, Tobias Schwandt, Christoph Gerhardt, Alexander Raake, Wolfgang Broll, Nicola DöringAuthors Info & ClaimsPages 382 - 387
Abstract
Given the profound impact of staying socially connected on the well-being of older adults, this study explores the potential of augmented reality (AR) systems to enrich their social lives. A wearable AR communication system prototype was developed and tested in a user study involving N = 16 older adults from Germany. Participants wore an AR headset and engaged in a conversation task with a remote person represented by an avatar. Older adults’ experiences were assessed using think-aloud protocols, qualitative observations, posttest questionnaires, and semi-structured oral interviews. Preliminary findings indicate overall participant satisfaction, with minimal observed difficulties in headset usage and avatar-mediated interpersonal communication. The positive engagement during AR conversations highlights the system’s potential to provide positive communication experiences among older individuals. This work-in-progress paper introduces the developed system prototype and outlines the conducted user study. Further data analyses will provide deeper insights into older adults’ experiences with the system. The results will contribute to refining the prototype and offer valuable insights for the development of AR communication systems tailored to the needs and preferences of older adults.
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Index Terms
- Work-in-Progress: Older Adults' Experiences With an Augmented Reality Communication System
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June 2024
465 pages
ISBN:9798400705038
DOI:10.1145/3639701
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Published: 07 June 2024
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