Problem 2 — Accessibility & Interface Clarity

Accessibility gaps quietly exclude the people who need support the most.

“My hands shake and I keep missing the button and text fields.” - Charles

Problem

Seniors using the platform face challenges with small touch targets, low contrast, cluttered layouts, and unclear visual hierarchy — barriers that reduce usability and confidence.

While this case study does not include a formal accessibility audit, all proposed solutions are designed to align with current accessibility guidelines.

Heuristics Violated

WCAG Guidelines to be Used in Evaluation

WCAG Guidelines

• 1.3.1 Info and Relationships: Use clear layout, headings, and labels.

• 1.3.1 Use clear layout, headings, and labels.

• 1.4.3 Contrast (Minimum): Ensure text has at least a 4.5:1 contrast ratio.

• 1.4.3 Contrast (Minimum)

• 1.4.4 Resize Text: Allow text to scale up to 200% without loss of content/function.

• 1.4.4 Resize Text (up to 200%)

• 2.5.5 Target Size (Enhanced): Minimum touch target size of 44px by 44px.

• 2.5.5 Target Size (44×44px)

• 4.1.2 Name, Role, Value: Ensure compatibility with screen readers.

• 4.1.2 Screen Reader Compatibility

Solutions

Senior Mode + Global Accessibility Updates

Senior Mode & updates
Simplified layout
Larger tap targets
Adjustable text
Screen reader/labels
Desktop & speech input
Improved contrast
More accessibility

Why These Solutions Help

• Supports users with vision and dexterity limitations

• Reduces tapping errors, misinterpretations, and abandonment

• Ensures alignment with WCAG standards for inclusive design

• Encourages confident, independent use and increases task success

Research Insight

The Nielsen Norman Group and WCAG standards highlight that accessibility barriers—such as small touch targets, insufficient contrast, and non-resizable text—disproportionately affect older adults. According to research, even small updates that follow WCAG guidelines can significantly improve usability for aging and mobile-first populations.