A recent study conducted by a University of Georgia psychologist shows older banking customers have difficulty operating ATMs. According to Dr. Wendy Rogers, the problem is that most banks assume ATMs are simple to use and don't offer training. "But evidence shows that users of all ages have problems using ATMs initially when no training is provided, and that older adults have problems even after training."

Earlier studies have found younger adults use ATMs more than older adults and that older adults have more trouble with the machine. A 1996 study by Dr. Rogers found that only 33% of the respondents over the age of 65 used ATMs.

Rogers identified some ways that banks could allay older adults' technical and safety concerns and increase ATM use. They include:

 Make options easier to understand

 Improve lighting

 Use non-glare glass

 Allow increased time to respond

 Provide an escape or undo button to get out of errors

 Provide a panic button that would set off an alarm or take a photo

Survey respondents who do not use ATMs stated they did not see a need for them. One respondent said, "Well, if they put them in the church were I feel at ease, I might use the teller. But I am not going to a teller after dark, after banking hours. (Iím not) interested in being robbed . . . It's not worth that to me--I just write a check."

The study appears in Applied Ergonomics. For more information call (706)542-3115 or e-mail wrogers@ugaa.cc.uga.edu.