Digitization Puts Many at a Disadvantage

It does not only affect older people; everyone now has to use digital services (which often have appaling or onerous UIs or security requirements).

For example, I recently opened a new bank account, and essentially to be able to do anything with the account, I had to 'activate' it. From the bank's mobile phone app. Even though I was sitting right there in the bank, with my passport and other documents, I had to 'verify' myself by installing their app and using it to respond to a 2FA SMS text - no other way.

Another problem is with uber type services. I used to be able to hail a ride taxi-style (hand in the air) pretty much from anywhere at almost any time. Now, using an app is almost the only way, as anything moving is carrying a ride-hailing app passenger, or on it's way to one.

A smart-phone has become essential to modern life, not just a convenient luxury or toy, and usability generally sucks for everyone, and especially for older of physically challenged people.

Many challenges older or disabled individuals face with digital devices are due to design issues, not the technology itself. I've seen that when devices or systems are convoluted, it's often due to business interests prioritizing revenue over user experience. This is not an inherent flaw of digital technology but a result of corporate strategies that can be changed through better regulation and consumer demand for user-friendly designs.

Considering the specific issues highlighted in the article, it's curious why there hasn't yet been the development of an accessible, user-friendly operating system featuring large buttons and straightforward menus. Such an OS could then be paired with more accessible versions of websites, like a flight booking service, which would present plain text and essential functions in the clearest possible manner... (dreaming in a dream)

Okay? What's the takeaway? This is just a list of assertions that technology is hard for some people to use.