Good Computer Ergonomics for Seniors

The notion of seniors being averse to computers is almost becoming an urban legend now. With many seniors still working till the age of 65, working on computers is just inevitable. But are they properly informed about ergonomic postures and positioning while working on a computer/laptop? Seniors who are prone to body aches have got to be doubly careful.

A personal computer is what most people get to use at work places. Out of the three different parts of a PC, the positioning of the monitor and keyboard is most important. Computer for seniors has been a boon for multiple reasons. However, bad work habits and postures can really aggravate existing ailments for them. They’ve got to be informed about the right methods of computer usage. Here are some pointers for using the computer.


1)Place your feet flat on the floor while your knees should be perpendicular to your thighs.

2)While using the keyboard, place your hands in a neutral, flat posture.

3)The keyboard should be placed on the same level as your elbows.

4)Position the mouse on a surface close to you at an elbow-height or a little above that.

5)A trackball is easier and more sensitive than the mouse.

6)A multi-touch pad helps you use the zoom control better.

7)Type with your hands straight to avoid wrist pain.

8)The monitor should be at the right height and distance.

9)Avoid using screens that flicker. They’ll ruin you eyesight. An LCD screen will help protect your eyes better.

10)Use large fonts for personal work. Get the computer seniors software that has big fonts customized specially for seniors.

11)Use the right kind of lighting to reduce the strain on your eyes.

12)For seniors with a back problem, placing a cushion behind will relieve some of the discomfort. It’s a must to use a chair with a backrest.

Apart from these, remember to break your work into intervals. After every 20 minutes look 20 feet away for 20 seconds. It’s also good to get up every 20 minutes and walk around to give your muscles the necessary stretch. Neck and shoulder movements are important as well. Rotate your shoulders and stretch your neck muscles every hour, or whenever you feel the discomfort. Muscles get stiff easily with age. Not to forget, long periods of immobility could create weight problems as well. That would end up as a whole new problem to tackle, and you wouldn’t want that. Following some of these ergonomic protocols will definitely prove to be beneficial for seniors.