DEVELOPING A SOCIAL MEDIA SYSTEM FOR THE TAIWANESE ELDERLY BY PARTICIPATORY DESIGN

: This study aimed to determine the need of the elderly of digital social media and apply that in the analysis of the matrix table as a reference for the design criteria. We developed a prototype of our design concept, and then improved it by involving elderly participants in a two-phase discussion. The proposed system made it easy for them to control any desired function by simply selecting a number. In addition, the touchpad and the built-in microphone of the remote control made it easy for them either writing or talking. Our prototype includes an introduction to the socializing platform, followed by a direct video conversation and an information platform. The purpose of which was to integrate the social functions of the media the elderly are already familiar with. This paper discusses the proposed prototype concept and how it can provide suggestions as well as a reference in the design and application of tools to assist the elderly with participating in social media.