The iPad is very hard to use for people who are not familiar with computer touch interfaces and also have a reduced sense of touch and low vision.
Many elderly people fit this profile; some have issues with memory as well. That makes it likely that such a person will need a hint for each control to recall what it does.
The sleek Apple design requires the user be able to feel, see, remember and learn.
The case in this picture was modified by coloring in controls with a black sharpie to increase contrast. Labels are made using a Brother label maker