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A few days ago, I was waiting at a chain pharmacy for a vaccination. Despite there being 5 people behind the counter, the chain required everyone to check in for their appointment by QR code, and that then required me to answer over again all the questions I had answered online when I scheduled the appointment. When I finally saw the nurse 20 minutes later, I had to answer some of these questions a third time. It was annoying for me, but the woman in front of me was older and absolutely could not manage the QR code. She had a smartphone with a camera but didn’t know how to use either the camera or the internet app and even with my help, she was shaking and about to cry. The people behind the desk just ignored her.
Then today, my elderly mother had scheduled a service person from Sears to fix an appliance for her. I was pleased she made the appointment and agreed to have it fixed without me or my husband being there. But she called me (while I was in the office in a meeting) in a panic because Sears now refuses to take cash or check and the service guy could not process a credit card either — except via QR code and my mom said it “just wouldn’t work” on her phone.
I figured out how to deal with it but sheesh. This new technology is not making things easier for customers.

We don't have to like technology, but maintaining a basic level of digital ability is increasingly part of remaining independent.

For the poor elder in line at the pharmacy, businesses still have to provide accessibility for people with disabilities. Not that the elderly woman was disabled, but why wouldn't they just have given her the option to check in as if she was?

I've been going to a lot of orthopedic appointments lately. I make the appointment online. Then I get text reminders. Then it sends me a link to check-in online, which i do. But when I get to the clinic, they still ask me the same questions as the online check-in (especially my name and DOB). Then when the assistant takes me to the exam room s/he asks me that *again*. It's getting ridiculous. Sometimes they ask for photo ID.

Technology will always be advancing and implemented because it brings efficiencies, accuracies and other benefits to businesses. By time the Millenials get to be 65, there won't be a need for paper and pens -- even for the disabled.
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I've got a smart phone but my budget plan doesn't include data so you'd better provide free, accessible WIFI if you want me to use QR codes or to access your web page
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So true. And so freaking annoying. I refuse to go to a restaurant where I have to order from a machine on the table or worse yet, a menu and my phone! Puh leeze. I'd rather stay home.

I think if you tell the pharmacy people you don't have a cell phone, or tell EVERYONE you don't have one, other accommodations must be made. I get my flu shot at the doctors office.
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