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Car Manufacturers Are Watching Out For Baby Boomers.

7/7/2011

 
Picture
Larger fonts on dashboards will make it easier to read.
It won't be long before we will be seeing subtle but important changes to the things we use everyday as baby boomers impact the country - and the world - as they age.  One maker of audio equipment is exploring an concept that would add a face plate to the front side of their boxes that would make it easier to read the dials and screens.  And a vacuum manufacturer is considering changing the style of their handle to accommodate people with arthritis.  Now, at least one car maker is also getting into the act.

According to research by Ford, even small changes can make the words in its interior graphics easier for everyone to read, regardless of their age. The effect is even more visible on aging Baby Boomers who might appreciate actually seeing the dashboard without squinting. And beginning next year, Ford has decided to begin the production of Ford’s Edge and Explorer SUV models with 40% larger fonts. And then later on...on other Ford models too, with higher contrast and larger fonts on the interior display screens control and A/C controls.  

What an amazing concept !!

“Today, aging consumers are of great interest to companies including Ford. For the first time, people age 65 and over will outnumber children under the age of 5. It’s a transformation that’s changing the world, along with all kinds of products in it.” (according to Ford’s statements).

One thing is for sure.  Larger words will mean that many of us will now actually know just how fast we're driving and won't be able to use that excuse if we are pulled over by the authorities.   "But Officer... I couldn't actually read the dials on the dashboard so I had no idea I was doing 60 in a 35 mile hour zone." 

So what will be next?  What changes in product design should manufacturers take into consideration?
Your Thoughts?

John Foster ( OLD baby boomer )
7/7/2011 01:44:16 am

The problem I have isn't so much reading the dials but trying to figure out what they do. First you hit one button on the sound system and it turns on the VCR. Then I pick up the remote and try to turn up the volume and the cable box switches channels. What I need is to not only be able to read the little tiny screens but just turn on the music. Oh.. what I wouldn't give just to have my old crystal radio set I built myself from Radio Shack 45 years ago. Thanks for this. I got a chuckle.

Older but Wiser Boomer
7/10/2011 02:11:54 am

If there is a problem, it is making the buttons big enough to operate. Too many buttons. Too big the fingers. I can always put my tri-focals on to read the dials but once I figure out which to hit, how do I keep from hitting two or three buttons around the one I am trying to use.

rta traffic control course link
8/26/2012 03:40:58 pm

Nice blog about the car manufactures.I like the blog post to read.Thanks a lot for the blog post.


Comments are closed.
    Michael A. Thomas, FASID, interior designer in Phoenix, AZ
    Michael A. Thomas, FASID

    Welcome To This Boomer's Design Blog!

    Michael A. Thomas, FASID is an author, writer and interior designer who as a caregiver developed a passion for creating homes without barriers, maximizing the independence of his clients and having a little fun along the way.  
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    Co-Author: Residential Design For Aging In Place.  To learn more, CLICK HERE. 


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