eBook Reader solution for elderly...

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Oubadah

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#92845 7-Nov-2011 20:45

These eBook readers don't interest me, so I haven't any knowledge on the subject. I was wondering if there might be a suitable solution for a 90yr old?

Considerations would be:

- Screen/font size (would have to be large). Same with buttons.
- Simplicity (Old person friendly UI).
- No internet connection on site, but we can do all the downloading as long as there is some kind of USB connection etc. (no wireless at the moment).
- Physically robust construction.

What do you think?

mattwnz

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#542228 7-Nov-2011 20:48

Have a look at the new sony ones. They are touch screen which I think is a must for ease of use, and only about $230. However the screen isn't as big as the amazon kindles large version.
The sony ones I beleive can also play music, while the new kindle range I believe they have removed that feature. But the kindle is probably the cheapest, depending on the exchange rate.

Nety

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#542231 7-Nov-2011 20:56

Remember with I think basically any eBook reader you can change the font size so the 90 year old can read comfortably regardless of the screen size. If you do want a big screen maybe the Kindle DX. If you do go the kindle path get it from Amazon use using the links on this site which helps to keep the lights on :-)

http://gkz1.co/KindleNZ

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Elpie

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#544817 13-Nov-2011 16:23

Having recently introduced a Kindle to a technologically-challenged 77-year-old I made the following observations:

Reading was easy and he enjoys the size and weight of the device as well as lack of eye strain. He manages font-size adjustments easily.

Opening and reading books was no problem. Organising or deleting books was very problematic - he has difficulty with the buttons.

He is now reading more than ever and loves the kindle, but is not getting full use from it and is reliant on others sourcing and installing books for him.

By comparison, I also introduced him to the iPad2. It took him a little while to get used to navigation and swiping but was using it like a pro by the next day. If I was buying an e-reader for him now I would get an iPad and install the kindle app. He doesn't read in bed (which would swing the decision in the kindle's favour) and although he commented on the lack of eye strain with the kindle he doesn't really read for long enough in one sitting for this to be a factor against the iPad.

Buying an iPad as just a book reading device seems silly but my observations indicated it is a better choice for an elderly person, It also took less than half a day before he wanted to play games on the thing ;)