I live in a Retirement Village with 40 Units. Peter and I are the only ones having computers. We tried to teach some neighbours, but they could not even remember how to turn the computer on. They were not really interested when we told them that mail from other countries is practically instnt and they don't have to wait two weeks to get an answer.
I suppose that most or all of them have some kind of Banking card, but none of them use it, because remembering their key numbers gives them trouble. So they go into the Bank to withdraw what money they need. One Teller told one lady if she knew that it cost her more for over the counter withdrawls than using the ATM. The lady told the Teller; "If nobody uses the over the counter service, you'll be out of a job."
When it comes to Telephone payments, it is also not so easy for a lot of people. First off all one is put on hold for a long time before getting through to the department they need. Hearing loss is also a problem, and mistakes have been made with giving account numbers.
Internet banking is quick and easy, but not eveyone has a computer, and there is always the threat that someone will hack into your account.
Yes, there is progress for the better, but changes do not happen overnight. I still prefer to pay cash for what I need. I don't even take my card with me when I go shopping, that way I don't get tempted to overspend.
Erica
