Accessibility
Taking part in research with a screen reader
A practical guide for screen reader users on completing online surveys, handling grid questions, and joining focus groups to share valuable feedback.
Online research for older adults: a friendly guide
Brands, health services and public bodies need to hear from people of every age. Yet older adults are often underrepresented in online research. If you are new to surveys or video calls, this friendly guide covers everything you need to get started with confidence.
Key points
- Older adults are a valuable and often underrepresented group in research about products, services, health and technology.
- A phone, tablet or computer with an internet connection is all you need, and most settings can make text larger and easier to read.
- Take your time. There is no rush, and you can pause or stop any study.
- Never share passwords or bank codes. Genuine research never asks for them.
Why your view matters
Companies often design products with younger customers in mind, then wonder why older customers find them frustrating. Small print, confusing apps, packaging that is hard to open and websites full of jargon are common examples. Research with older adults helps fix these problems before they reach the shops.
Your experience matters in all kinds of studies, not only those about retirement or health. Groceries, travel, banking, television, technology and local services all need your view. Many studies specifically look for people over 60 or 70 and struggle to find enough of them.
What you need
- A device. A tablet is often the easiest for beginners, thanks to its larger screen and touch controls. A computer works well for longer surveys. A smartphone is fine for short surveys.
- An internet connection. Home wifi is ideal.
- An email address, to receive invitations and account messages.
That is all. You do not need any special skills.
Making your screen easier to read
Every modern device has settings to make text bigger and clearer:
- Larger text. Look for "Display" or "Text size" in your device settings.
- Zoom. On a computer, hold the Ctrl key (or Command on a Mac) and press the plus key to make a web page larger. Press minus to make it smaller.
- Bold text and higher contrast make letters stand out.
- Read aloud. Phones and tablets can read screen text out loud. Look for "Spoken content" or "Select to speak" in the accessibility settings.
A family member or friend can help you set these up once, and they will then work on most websites and surveys.
Your first survey
- Open the invitation email and click the survey link.
- Read each question carefully. There are no right or wrong answers, just your honest view.
- Choose your answer and press "Next" to move on.
- If you are unsure, choose "do not know" if it is offered.
- At the end, you will see a message confirming you are finished.
If you get stuck or a page does not load, close it and try the link again later. If it still does not work, contact our support team.
Joining a video call
Some studies, such as interviews and focus groups, take place by video call. The invitation explains how to join. A few tips:
- Ask someone to practice a short video call with you beforehand.
- Prop your tablet or laptop at eye level, perhaps on a few books.
- Sit facing a window so your face is well lit.
- Use headphones if you find it hard to hear.
- Join ten minutes early, so there is time to sort out any sound or camera issues.
Researchers are patient and friendly. If you need them to speak more slowly or repeat something, just ask. Our tech checklist for online focus groups has more detail.
Help is fine, sharing accounts is not. A family member can help you set up your device or join a call. But the account and the answers must be yours, and each person should have their own account.
Staying safe online
- Genuine research panels never ask for bank passwords, PIN numbers or security codes.
- Never pay a fee to join a survey or receive a reward.
- Be cautious of emails that look like invitations but come from strange addresses or push you to act quickly.
- If something feels wrong, stop and ask someone you trust, or contact our support team directly using the details on our website.
Phone options
If you prefer not to use a computer, some studies can be done by phone with a trained interviewer. If this suits you better, add it to your profile. We will try to match you with studies that offer it.
Common questions
Am I too old to join?
There is no upper age limit. Adults of all ages are welcome, and older members are especially valued because they are often underrepresented.
What if I make a mistake in a survey?
Most surveys let you go back a page. If not, do not worry. One small mistake will not cause a problem.
Can my son or daughter manage my account for me?
They can help you, but the account must belong to you and the answers must be your own. Panels allow one account per person.
