From coins to credit cards

Martha woke up early, feeling the familiar ache in her hip as she swung her legs over the side of the bed. She rubbed the sore spot, a reminder of her 75 years on this earth. Despite the discomfort, she was determined to get her laundry done today.

As she entered the laundry room, she was greeted by a technician tinkering with the washing machines. Martha's eyes widened as she saw the coin boxes being removed, replaced by sleek credit card readers.

"What am I supposed to do?" Martha asked the technician, concerned.

The technician, a young man with a friendly face, looked up from his work. "I'm sorry, ma'am, but I'm just doing the work order I was given. The complex is switching to credit card-only payment. Have you ever thought about getting a credit card?"

Martha shook her head. "I don't need one. I've always used coins for my laundry. I pay for things with cash."

The technician shrugged. "I understand, ma'am. But it's the way things are going now. Maybe you can talk to the complex management about it?"

Since her hip was aching, she called the doctor's office. A cheerful voice answered on the other end. "Hello, this is Dr. Smith's office. How can I help you?"

"Hi, I need to make an appointment." Martha said, expecting a simple response.

But instead, the receptionist said, "I'm sorry, ma'am, but you'll have to create an account online and make your appointment there. We don't do appointments over the phone anymore. I'm sorry, ma'am. It's our new policy. Maybe you can ask a family member or friend to help you set up an account online?"

Martha felt a surge of frustration and helplessness. It seemed like the world was moving too fast for her, and she was being left behind. She ended the call, feeling uncertain about what to do next.

In Alaska, many people still live in a cash-only economy. Many seniors do not use computers, smartphones, or tablets and are not connected to the internet. To someone who has grown up in the digital age, this may seem like a rare phenomenon, but it is the daily reality for many Alaskan seniors and elders.

One example that highlights this issue is the growing trend of laundromats converting to credit-card only payment systems. While this may seem like a convenient and modern solution for many, it effectively takes away the ability of these seniors to use the facilities. They may have to pay for a cab to the nearest laundromat and struggle with their laundry in the process.

Another example is in the healthcare system. Many doctors' offices require patients to schedule appointments online and complete pre-appointment paperwork electronically. While this may seem like a convenient and efficient system for many, it can be a significant barrier for seniors who do not have access to the internet or are not comfortable using digital technology. They may have to rely on a family member or friend to schedule the appointment for them, which can be a challenge, especially if they live in a rural area with limited access to transportation.

It is essential that policymakers and businesses take into account the needs of senior Alaskans who live in a cash-only economy and who may choose not to adopt digital technologies. By not being in a hurry to phase out payment options, such as cash or check, and by continuing to offer traditional methods for scheduling appointments and completing paperwork, businesses can ensure that their services are accessible to all members of the community. There will come a day when digital methods are universally adopted by all ages, but in the meantime the needs of Alaska’s seniors and elders who won’t make that transition must be accommodated.

Marty Lange is the Program Coordinator for the Alaska Commission on Aging.