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1. Physical aspects
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Age-related factors
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In particular
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▪ Neck, shoulders strain, tired at end of day
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▪ Use of mouse, developing carpel tunnel
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▪ Stiffness when sitting for long periods
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▪ Keyboard dexterity
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▪ Hand problems, clicking on mouse
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▪ Seeing screens
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▪ Eye strain and vision
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▪ Sitting at computers for long periods for data entry
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Exacerbated by:
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2.
Mental aspects
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▪ More clicking on the mouse required for newer programs
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In particular:
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▪ Ergonomic factors:
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▪ Use of new technology
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- Sitting more, less active
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▪ Learning new programs and changes to programs
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- Posture and seating, some computers badly set up, on a bench
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▪ Statistics
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▪ IT education provision
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▪ Remembering passwords
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- not tailored to particular needs
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▪ Interpreting computerised results
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- Not enough time allowed for older workers to learn, absorb and apply knowledge. "Younger workers already with computer skills, get the same amount of training time"
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- "Helpdesk" is on the computer, not in hardcopy"
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▪ Historical-generational learning factors
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- Not having computers at home and not growing up with computers
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- Computers not seen as a priority
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- Learn differently, "we are more practical people"
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- Harder for shift workers to adapt to computer
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▪ General lack of confidence and support with computers and new technology:
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- IT support not always available when needed
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- Frequency of use - affects confidence
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- Tendency to avoid new technology due to difficulty with equipment
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