Perception of the Impact of Digital Wallets, Mobile Payments, and Contactless Payment Technologies among the Senior Citizens Residing in Bangalore in Regards to Purchases, Travel, and Household Expenses

Abstract

This research delves into the adoption of digital payment technologies—digital wallets, mobile payments, and contactless methods—among senior citizens in Bangalore, India, within the context of a rapidly digitalizing economy. Despite the potential of these technologies for enhanced financial accessibility, their impact on the elderly, a group often overlooked in tech discussions, is not well understood. The study, targeting seniors aged 50 and above through a questionnaire-based approach, aims to fill this gap by examining their perceptions, challenges, and adoption rates, thereby offering insights into their integration into everyday financial activities. With 100 participants surveyed, the research uncovers a growing interest in digital payments among seniors, albeit with significant adoption variances. Key factors influencing acceptance include ease of use, security, and financial independence potential, while notable barriers encompass technological unfamiliarity and security concerns, indicating the need for more accessible, senior-friendly digital payment solutions. The findings show a balanced gender distribution among participants, primarily in the early stages of seniority (50–60 years), and a middle-income concentration, suggesting a ripe demographic for digital payment initiatives but also revealing sporadic digital payment use due to technological and security hurdles. In conclusion, the study highlights the necessity of developing inclusive, secure, and user-friendly digital payment platforms for seniors, urging a collaborative effort among policymakers, tech developers, and the community to boost seniors' financial autonomy and inclusion. It offers valuable insights for tailoring tech innovations to better meet senior needs, contributing to a more inclusive digital financial ecosystem, and outlining actionable strategies for enhancing senior financial empowerment and confidence in the digital economy.