Loading spinners, those seemingly innocent animations that indicate a process is occurring on digital devices, have become a ubiquitous part of the user experience. Whether they appear on operating systems, computers, phones, websites, or video games, these dynamic animations are widely used to show users that something is loading, processing, or being updated. However, while loading spinners are common, their widespread use brings with it significant accessibility concerns that are often overlooked. For a growing number of individuals, loading spinners can trigger a range of uncomfortable or even debilitating symptoms. These symptoms affect people with various physical and cognitive conditions, and for some, the experience is not simply a matter of inconvenience—it’s a matter of health.
The Accessibility Challenge of Loading Spinners
The issue with loading spinners arises from their dynamic nature. These spinners often involve rapid, circular motion that can be unpredictable in speed and direction. While this might seem like a minor issue for many users, the reality is that the visual movement of loading spinners can trigger significant health problems for people with certain conditions, making them inaccessible and even harmful. For those who prefer “reduced motion” or have specific medical concerns, a solid, static alternative like the classic hourglass icon could serve as a more accessible solution. This would convey the loading state without the discomfort or health risks associated with animated spinners.
Disorders Impacted by Loading Spinners
- Migraine and Headaches: For individuals with migraine disorders, exposure to flashing or moving images can be a major trigger. The rapid movement of a loading spinner, especially if the user is exposed to it for an extended period, can bring on intense headaches, nausea, and even the onset of a migraine. The flickering or constant motion can strain the visual system, exacerbating pain and discomfort.
- Epilepsy: Flashing lights and rapidly changing images can trigger seizures in individuals with photosensitive epilepsy. While not all loading spinners flash in a way that causes seizures, certain patterns of motion or color changes can still be dangerous, potentially leading to a seizure in vulnerable individuals. Epileptic seizures caused by such animations can range from mild to life-threatening, highlighting the need for a safer alternative.
- Vestibular Disorders: The vestibular system, responsible for balancing and coordinating the body’s sense of movement, can be profoundly affected by certain visual stimuli. People with vestibular disorders, such as benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) or Meniere’s disease, can experience dizziness, nausea, and disorientation when exposed to constant movement on screen. Loading spinners, which can involve circular or back-and-forth motion, are notorious for exacerbating these symptoms.
- Cognitive Disabilities: For individuals with cognitive disabilities, such as ADHD, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), or sensory processing disorders, the constant motion of a loading spinner can be both distracting and overstimulating. This can lead to difficulties in processing information, making it harder to focus on tasks or follow through on actions. The unpredictability of the spinner’s motion can also lead to frustration and stress, as it becomes difficult to anticipate how long the wait will last or what is happening.
- Cybersickness and Motion Sickness: Perhaps one of the most significant but often overlooked consequences of loading spinners is cybersickness. This term refers to a condition similar to motion sickness, where users experience symptoms like dizziness, nausea, and headaches when exposed to visual stimuli that mimic movement but do not align with the body’s sense of motion. Cybersickness is especially prevalent among those who interact with digital environments frequently, including gamers and office workers. The movement of loading spinners—especially when coupled with a lack of user control over the animation—can induce severe discomfort, particularly if the user is sensitive to motion.
- Autonomic Nervous System Disorders: For people with autonomic nervous system disorders, such as dysautonomia or postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS), visual stimuli like loading spinners can provoke physical responses such as increased heart rate, dizziness, and lightheadedness. The stress of coping with these rapid, repetitive motions can worsen these conditions and may even lead to fainting in some cases.
- Anxiety and Panic Disorders: People with anxiety disorders may find that the constant motion and unpredictability of loading spinners exacerbate feelings of unease or panic. For some, it may feel like an endless wait, which can trigger anxiety. The inability to predict when the spinner will stop can also contribute to feelings of helplessness or stress, particularly if the user is already struggling with a heightened stress response.
- Sensory Sensitivities: Many individuals, especially those on the autism spectrum, have heightened sensory sensitivities. The fast-moving or ever-changing nature of loading spinners can trigger sensory overload, leading to irritability, heightened stress, and an overall unpleasant experience when using digital devices. The intense visual input can become overwhelming, making it difficult to focus on or enjoy the task at hand.
Symptoms Triggered by Loading Spinners
The symptoms caused by loading spinners can vary widely depending on the individual and the underlying condition. Common symptoms include:
- Headaches and migraines: Triggered by flashing or constant motion.
- Dizziness and vertigo: Often associated with vestibular disorders.
- Nausea: A common symptom of cybersickness or motion sickness.
- Seizures: In individuals with photosensitive epilepsy, flashing or rapidly moving images can provoke seizures.
- Anxiety and stress: The uncertainty and unpredictability of loading spinners can increase stress levels.
- Fatigue and confusion: Prolonged exposure can lead to mental fatigue, making it harder to process information or make decisions.
- Eyestrain: Repeated exposure to fast-moving or changing visuals can cause visual discomfort or strain.
The Case for a Reduced Motion Alternative
For individuals with health conditions that make animated loading spinners inaccessible, a simple, solid alternative—such as a static hourglass icon—can be a far better solution. A stationary hourglass can communicate that a process is ongoing without any movement, ensuring that users are aware of the current status without the discomfort caused by constant motion. This solution is especially beneficial for users who have selected “reduced motion” preferences in their operating systems, a feature designed to minimize animation and reduce strain on those sensitive to movement.
It’s crucial to note that the need for reduced motion is not a preference or a luxury—it is an accessibility requirement for many individuals. Offering an alternative like a static hourglass icon or another non-moving indicator isn’t just about personal preference; it’s about ensuring that all users, regardless of their physical or cognitive conditions, can interact with digital environments in a way that is both safe and inclusive.
Conclusion: A Call for More Inclusive Design
Incorporating reduced motion alternatives, like static hourglass icons, can go a long way in creating more inclusive digital spaces. It is essential for designers, developers, and organizations to understand that accessibility is not just a buzzword—it’s a critical factor in ensuring that everyone, regardless of their health conditions, can enjoy and engage with technology. The widespread use of loading spinners may be a convention, but it is one that can be improved with a little consideration for accessibility needs. Ultimately, it is a matter of health and safety, not just design preference.
By offering reduced motion options, such as static loading icons, we can ensure that technology is accessible and comfortable for everyone. We must move beyond the idea that accessibility features are mere “extras” and begin to prioritize them as core aspects of inclusive design.
References
- American Epilepsy Society. (2019). Photosensitive Epilepsy and Seizures. Retrieved from www.efa.org
- Hain, T., & Helminski, J. (2007). Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV). Journal of Vestibular Research.
- Hong, Z., & Zhu, Y. (2019). The Impact of Animation on Cybersickness and Cognitive Workload. Human Factors Journal.
- Mayo Clinic. (2021). Dysautonomia and Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome. Retrieved from www.mayoclinic.org
- National Headache Foundation. (2021). Migraine Triggers: What to Avoid. Retrieved from www.headaches.org
