1. Physical aspects |
Age-related factors |
In particular |
▪ Neck, shoulders strain, tired at end of day |
▪ Use of mouse, developing carpel tunnel |
▪ Stiffness when sitting for long periods |
▪ Keyboard dexterity |
▪ Hand problems, clicking on mouse |
▪ Seeing screens |
▪ Eye strain and vision |
▪ Sitting at computers for long periods for data entry |
Exacerbated by: |
2. Mental aspects |
▪ More clicking on the mouse required for newer programs |
In particular: |
▪ Ergonomic factors: |
▪ Use of new technology |
- Sitting more, less active |
▪ Learning new programs and changes to programs |
- Posture and seating, some computers badly set up, on a bench |
▪ Statistics |
▪ IT education provision |
▪ Remembering passwords |
- not tailored to particular needs |
▪ Interpreting computerised results |
- 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 |