Technology Digital Payments: Not Easy for Everyone 1/24/2025 | By Terri L. Jones Many of us relied on cash and checks for the first decades of our lives, but digital payments have become commonplace. In fact, at some businesses, they are the only form of payment. If you haven’t embraced the digital payment trend, Seniors Guide writer Terri L. Jones explains what you need to know. My husband and I went to see the Red Hot Chili Peppers a couple of summers ago. The concert was held in an outdoor stadium, so after we found our seats, I headed to the vendor stands with two 20-dollar bills in my pocket to purchase some frozen drinks. When I made it to the head of the line, I ordered our drinks and then handed the guy my cash. He responded, “Sorry, we don’t take cash.” I was stunned. When we attended another event a few weeks later, I discovered that the concert’s cashless policy was hardly an anomaly. Apparently, large events and quite a few businesses are choosing to only accept digital payments these days! What’s driving digital payments preferences? Some of these no-cash practices are left over from the days of COVID and the risk of infection handling money, while other businesses don’t accept the green stuff to prevent robberies. Electronic payment is also easier on both sides of the transaction. Whatever the reason, this trend puts consumers who don’t have credit or debit cards or internet access at a distinct disadvantage. It also presents a serious obstacle for those who simply feel more comfortable dealing in cash, a group that includes seniors. Many seniors prefer cash The Federal Reserve has reported that older adults paid cash for 22 percent of their purchases in 2023. While they may be fine pulling out the plastic for large purchases, many would still rather pay cash for that cup of coffee or fast-food burger. The same percentage are still writing and mailing checks rather than trusting online payment methods. This reluctance to embrace digital payment options is certainly understandable. Unlike the generations after them, the Silent Generation and Boomers didn’t grow up with technology. Because many are relative newbies to the digital world, they are naturally wary of exchanging funds in these uncomfortable and unfamiliar ways. Some have no clue how to pay with their phones at the cash register or use payment apps like Venmo or PayPal to pay a bill or reimburse a friend for dinner. Some don’t even own smartphones. Many older adults are also uneasy about clicking a key and sending their money into the digital ether after hearing so many cases of people being scammed. Related: Navigating Digital Health Records The writing is on the wall The move toward electronic payments in this country and throughout the world is happening, despite how it disadvantages certain sectors. In fact, several European countries and China are approaching the point of fully digital economies and the obsolescence of cash. If you or a loved one is having difficulty jumping on the digital payment bandwagon, here are some ways to make the transition a little easier: Find someone who can walk you through it. With anything new, there’s the natural anxiety about doing something wrong, but in this case, you may also fear losing money, making your anxiety that much greater! Ask someone you trust who is proficient with technology to make sure your computer and smartphone, along with your browser, have the latest security updates and the websites where you are making payments are secure. Have them walk you through the process, then help you make the first few payments until you get the hang of it and feel comfortable doing it on your own. Follow instructions. If you’re setting up and using an payment app like Zelle for the first time or mobile payment systems like Apple Pay or Google Pay or Venmo, carefully read and follow the instructions on the company’s website or contact customer service for help. Look for in-person or virtual classes. Many senior centers and other organizations and educational institutions offer classes that teach various technology skills. Look for resources in your local community. Transition slowly. Try one thing at a time, like paying your power bill online. Once you feel comfortable with making bill payments, try moving on to using Apple or Google Pay at the grocery store, then perhaps use Venmo to pay your daughter back for those theater tickets. Slowly but surely, it’ll become (almost) second nature. Digital payments are here to stay. If you educate yourself, take your time, and get the support you need, you’ll gain the confidence and security to use a wider range of electronic payment solutions over time. And you’ll recognize how easy this new way of purchasing is … and why your kids and grandkids can’t live without it! Related: Protect Yourself Against Payment Scams Read More Terri L. Jones Terri L. Jones has been writing educational and informative topics for the senior industry for over 10 years, and is a frequent and longtime contributor to Seniors Guide.