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AGED TASK FORCE MEDIA RELEASE

‘SENIORS BREAKING BANK BARRIER ’

“I did it and so can you” said Pam Hennan a member of the Healthy Cities Illawarra, Aged Task Force. Aged Task Force members who experienced the trepidation of using banking technology took matters in hand and have established a working group to look at the issue.

“Karen, my daughter dragged me to a local automatic teller machine ( ATM ) to help me learn to use it” said Pam. “I avoided them like the plague but after a couple of hands on practice sessions I was more confident. I now use ATM’s regularly”.

Pam was integral in getting the ‘Seniors and Banking’ working group established. This group sought help from local banks in learning to successfully operate ATM’s (automatic teller machines). Many seniors were not prepared to access ATM’s as there are a number of concerns with their use .

For example, bright lighting and glare are often reflected in ATM operating screens which makes them difficult to read if vision is not sharp. Another concern was the need for fairly quick responses to questions on the screen and a feeling of being rushed when accessing money in a public place when people are lined up behind. ATM’s require ‘hands free’ operation which is not compatible with a walking aid or unsteady feet. Putting items such as bags and purchases down on the ground can also be unsafe and stressful for seniors.

The working group acknowledged that seniors recognize the benefits and efficiencies of modern technology but require more time and support to learn its uses. The group with help from local banks have come up with some practical suggestions to assist community member’s to better access ATM services. These include:

• Bank representatives confirm that seniors should always seek the assistance of a staff member if there are any concerns with operating an ATM. Try to avoid busy times in banks’ operation such as Monday morning, Friday afternoon, pension days etc. You can also make an appointment to meet with staff, it will be easier.

• Use your cash card at retail outlets to access money as the process is more straight forward (a card swipe and pin) and safer. In some cases this may be more cost effective as fees are lower. You need to check with your bank about the fees.

• Try and use your banks own ATM. If a mistake is made and the card is taken in by the machine, banks can retrieve cards from their own machine.

• For some seniors using post offices to obtain money by cash card is a good option.

• There are ATMs that are tailored to the hearing impaired or wheelchair access. Contact banks and find out which outlets have these services.

• Seek the support of family and friends to learn to operate ATMs.

The working group has also discovered that small group training is available. A free 45 minute workshop is available at a time and place that suits your group. The group will learn how to use telephone banking, ATM’s, EFTPOS and internet banking. Call Healthy Cities Illawarra on 4226 5000 for the details.

Contact for interview and Photo Opportunity : Pam Hennan 4284 1781 from Monday 4th July

Healthy Cities Illawarra contact : Karen Tavener-Smith , Community Programs officer on 4226 5000 (Mon, Tues and Thurs )