Cognitive Load Theory Analysis of Medical Signage System for Seniors Based on General Hospitals in Shanghai

Abstract

The changing demographic structure of the population has sparked increased interest in geriatric programs and industries. Among these concerns, the pressing matter of mitigating the cognitive load among the seniors within medical environments and guaranteeing their seamless and secure access to medical services through signage systems has emerged as an exigent issue. This study focuses on three comprehensive hospitals in Shanghai and is grounded in the cognitive load theory and the cognitive characteristics of the seniors. It employs literature analysis and qualitative research methods to investigate the design issues and improvement directions of medical signage systems for the seniors. The research findings reveal that the senior’s population generally experiences a higher cognitive load when using medical signage systems. This is primarily evidenced by difficulties in comprehending signage information and swiftly recognizing crucial details, highlighting deficiencies in signage system design. Accordingly, this study presents recommendations tailored to the senior’s population to reduce their cognitive load, enhance the overall usability, and improve the accuracy of medical signage systems. Additionally, this research offers insights and discussions regarding the application of cognitive load theory in the field of design. © 2024, The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Switzerland AG.