From Skepticism to Acceptance: On the Dynamics of Elderly Engagement with Mixed Reality

As our society ages and technology becomes increasingly omnipresent, the use of Mixed Reality (MR) in private and health-related domains inevitably encounters the older population. This intersection presents unique challenges and opportunities for the integration of MR technology into the lives of elderlies. We conducted a qualitative study (N=7) using think-aloud interviews to gain in-depth insights into the usage of MR devices by elderly people. Using thematic analysis we identified barriers and facilitators for elderly engagement with MR: emotional response, ergonomics and handling, utility, learning competence, and acceptance. Our findings highlight the roles of timing, responsiveness, and skepticism towards the technology, which can act as a deterrent to the participation of elderlies. We contribute with a refined understanding of the elderly’s interaction with MR and recommendations for elderly-centric MR technology adoption.