Practical Tips for Doing User Research with Older People Dr Chloe Sharp Insights for Innovation
A presentation at User research with older people: lessons from niche groups in September 2022 in London, UK by The Research Thing
Practical Tips for Doing User Research with Older People Dr Chloe Sharp Insights for Innovation
About me Dr Chloe Sharp Founder: Mentor and Consultant Insights for Innovation LinkedIn: /sharpchloe Website: www.insightsforinnovation.co.uk
PhD: First-generation Polish migrant community
Public Health: Winter Wellness Evaluation Programme
Public Health: Adult Social Care users and predictive analytics
Arthritis Charity: UX evaluation of the website
Key Takeaways ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● Have fewer questions prepared that cover the key areas as the participants can get tired after 30-45 mins When doing research online, offer time before or on a separate day to set up and do a run-through of the technology Bring refreshments: tea, fruit, cakes and biscuits along to in-person focus groups or interviews Expect to stick around for a chat Allow for disinterest or loss of focus in focus groups Gently steer participants back on to the topic Choose and create relationships the gatekeepers for recruiting participants carefully Expect timings to be long if working with public sector organisations and charities - add in extra time into your contracts and project plans
Key Takeaways ● Flag up anything that you may see as a concern if you’re working with older, vulnerable people ● Provide reminders closer to the time as they may forget you’re coming and give them a call when you’re close by if in-person ● Offer transport or travel costs if they are going to a venue ● Consider alternative incentives such as offering to paint a village hall or donation to charity ● Invite a carer or family member to join them in the interview as they can read the person and say if they need a break ● Use visual aids as a way to stimulate discussions about a topic
Reflections ● ● ● ● Be patient Make them feel comfortable and not rushed Look after yourself when sensitive topics are discussed Have a feedback loop in place to let them know what you did with the findings
Thank you for listening. Questions?
