Most people don’t think about how individuals with dementia navigate websites. I gained a deeper understanding of this issue through my volunteer work with "Nezabutni". Meeting people living with dementia made me reflect: as a web developer, how can I make the digital world more user-friendly for them?
Here are a few simple ideas to help make your website more accessible for people with dementia.
Why Should You Adapt Websites for People with Dementia?
Dementia is not just about memory loss. It also affects concentration, understanding text, and navigating complex interfaces. Imagine someone getting lost on your website or not understanding what to do next. Simple changes can fix this.
For more general web accessibility tips, check out my guide on "Web Accessibility".
What Specific Changes Can You Make?
1. Simple and Clear Navigation
People with dementia need predictable navigation.
- Use clear labels for menu items (e.g., "Home" instead of icons).
- Don’t overload pages with too many choices.
- Add breadcrumbs so users know where they are.
2. Plain Text
Forget about complex phrases and technical terms. Keep it as simple as possible.
- Use short sentences.
- Explain unfamiliar words.
- Provide tooltips or hints.
3. Visual Cues
Visual elements can help users process content more effectively.
- Add icons next to text labels.
- Use clear focus styles for interactive elements.
- Show users their current location on the website.
4. Consistency
Don’t change the layout or style across different pages.
- Everything should look and work the same.
- Avoid unexpected pop-ups or surprises.
5. Minimize Distractions
Dementia impacts a person’s ability to focus.
- Avoid auto-playing videos.
- Break content into smaller, digestible sections.
- Use headings and bullet points for better readability.
- Avoid animations and moving content.
6. Error Prevention and Assistance
Forms can be stressful for users.
- Add input hints and auto-save functionality.
- Clearly explain any errors and how to fix them.
Conclusion
Accessible web design is not just about following rules. It’s about empathy. It’s about making sure everyone, regardless of their health condition, feels comfortable using the internet.
Small changes make a big impact. Start with one step — make at least one part of your site more user-friendly for people with dementia.
These simple adjustments can make the internet a better place for everyone.