A senior citizen’s life is full of possibilities, and a cell phone can help them live it all. Some great benefits include staying in touch with friends and family members or receiving emergency notifications about weather or amber alerts. Learn more about the best cell phones for senior citizens and the top features.
What can a Smartphone do?
Nowadays, cell phones are small computers with access to the Internet. You can do all sorts of things on your phone, including working on the computer and watching TV shows or movies while traveling on an airplane. Here is a quick list of what a smartphone can do.
- Stay Connected with Family & Friends
- Take and Share Photos
- Lookup Information
- Check the Weather & News
- Calculator
- Flashlight
- Never-Ending Supply of Games
- GPS Maps
- Favorite Music
- Texting – Friends and Family
- Socialize – Facebook, Instagram
- Emergency Alert
- Virtual Dr. Visits
- Budget-friendly
- Hearing & Visual Settings
The best smartphones also have features that are useful for seniors. For example, they can see their screens on a big screen and use an easy-to-read font. Some phones also have buttons people with disabilities can feel and use to make Skype or FaceTime calls.
People who are old can use these phones. They can talk to people they love, see the weather, and play games with them.
And if they need help using their phone, most carriers offer assistance plans tailored specifically for seniors.
How to Choose the Best Cell Phones for Senior Citizens
When it comes to choosing a cell phone for senior citizens, there are a few things that you need to take into account.
The first is the type of phone: should it be a flip phone or a smartphone? Seniors may prefer flip or slider phones because they’re easier to hold up to their ears, while younger people may want touchscreen devices.
The second consideration is the features that your loved one needs and wants.
- For example, do they want a phone with good internet access to stay in touch online?
- Do they want a cell phone with the ability to take pictures and videos of important moments?
The third thing that you’ll need is your budget. Cell phone plans can start at around $30 a month. Sure, you can find cell service for free with some providers, but it won’t have the best reception or call quality.
The last thing to consider is how long they want to keep their cell phone before replacing it? If someone wants to buy a phone for six months, they can get it from the cheaper companies. It will work oK.
Seniors Need Cell Phones That:
- They are easy to read, regardless of how low their vision is.
- Feature large keys for texting and making calls.
- Have a loud enough volume so they can hear it ring or when there’s an incoming call.
- Are affordable.
They may not need all the latest gadgetry but still want serviceable and dependable in emergencies, power outages, etc.
Even though cell phones for senior citizens don’t have to be overly expensive, you still want to ensure that your loved ones are getting something good out of them.
Finding a cell phone for someone a little bit older is easy with all these tips in mind.
Features Every Senior Should Look For In A Cell Phone
- Receive emergency notifications about weather alerts or Amber Alerts so you know when those dangerous storms are coming your way.
- Get back out there with Google Maps access anywhere at any time.
- Stay in touch with friends and family online, no matter where you are.
- Plan with GPS capabilities to never get lost again.
- Easily captures images and videos of significant events.
- Make phone calls and send text messages.
- Keep track of your health with a pedometer or other health app.
- Enjoy music, audiobooks, and podcasts on the go.
Older adults might need more buttons, more extensive text on the screen, and voice activation.
The next thing is durability; if you’re going out more often now than before, you’ll want something that won’t break easily from bumps and falls (or even water drops).
Lastly, check battery life: some people need all-day batteries while others require a few hours.
The Benefits of Owning a Cell Phone for Seniors
There are plenty of reasons why seniors should have a smartphone.
Safety When Traveling
The first and most important is safety. A cell phone with GPS capabilities can help senior citizen find their way home if they get lost, and they can also use it to call for help in an emergency.
Smartphones also allow connection to emergency services if needed.
These are just a few of the many benefits of owning a cell phone. In addition, seniors can also take advantage of special discounts on cell phone plans, making the monthly payments even more affordable.
Staying Connected with Friends and Family
A cell phone with internet access can keep seniors connected with friends and family members, and it can also help them stay up-to-date on the news and weather.
Listening to Music and Taking Photos
In addition, seniors can use their cell phones to listen to music, audiobooks, and podcasts. They can also use them to take pictures and videos of important moments.
Tracking Health and Reminders
Smartphones are also a great way for seniors to stay healthy. Many cell phones come with a pedometer or other health apps.
Some cell phones even monitor your heart rate and blood pressure, which can be important for older people who want to ensure they’re not at risk of serious medical problems like a stroke.
Large Screen & Easy-to-Read Fonts
It needs to be large enough to see it without having to strain your eyes, but not too big that it’s difficult for your fingers to type on or use with one hand.
Older eyes sometimes have a hard time reading small screens. Bigger fonts or adjustable text sizes make reading the screen and interacting with your phone easier.
Other Benefits
Reading books and newspapers are just a few of the many benefits of owning a cell phone. Seniors can also take advantage of special discounts on cell phone plans, making the monthly payments even more affordable.
The best cell phone has the features that seniors need and want in a phone. With all of these things in mind, it’s easy to see why a smartphone is the best choice for seniors.
What Are the Choices?
Finding a cell phone for senior citizens can be challenging. It is also challenging to find one that will work with the senior’s hearing or eyesight problems.
Many find that the best cell phone for senior citizens has a larger screen and easy-to-read font.
It’s also important to consider what features you need to access your calendar, make calls, send texts or emails, listen to music or podcasts, take pictures and videos, and even use social media!
The Top Senior Citizen Mobile Device Accessories
There is no age limit when it comes to cell phone ownership. Many senior citizens are embracing cell phone technology, but there are some accessories they may need to get the most out of their cell phones. Here are our top 10 cell phone accessories for seniors.
1. Heavy Duty Phone Case
A cell phone case with a sturdy body and shockproof shell can save a cell phone from accidental falls or drops. Also, having an anti-slip surface will make the cell phone less likely to slip out of one’s hands and cause damage.
2. Extra-Large Keypad
Most cell phones have small keypads, but cell phones for seniors are available with larger keypads that are easier to press. These cell phone models are less likely to cause dropped calls or misdialed numbers due to fumbled fingers. Many also come with large buttons and high-contrast screens.
3. Wireless Headset
A wireless headset is one of the most beneficial cell phone accessories for older users who may have difficulty hearing on their cell phones. A wireless headset is an item that can help people hear their phone’s sound better. This is because they hold the phone away from their ear, and they do not need to use speakers or anything else.
Several companies make cell phone headsets with adjustable volume controls and noise-canceling properties for people whose hearing is not what it used to be.
4. Easy-to-Read Cell Phone Screen
A cell phone screen protector can help protect a cell phone from scratches or damage when it falls.
It’s good because it doesn’t have glare. As a result, it is easier to read.
5. Easy-to-Use Cell Phone Case
You should put it in an easy-to-grip case if you have a cell phone. An easy-to-grip phone case will reduce the chances of your phone slipping out of your hands and breaking or getting lost.
6. Bluetooth Wireless Technology
A Bluetooth wireless cell phone headset is a device that lets you make and receive calls on your phone without the need to hold the phone by hand. Instead, you can put it in your pocket or purse while talking.
7. Emergency Alert Button
If someone has an emergency, it is essential to contact people quickly. Unfortunately, it can be hard to find numbers in the address book or on the tiny keyboard if you are old. As a result, many mobile devices now come with ‘panic’ buttons that automatically call a cell phone user’s designated contact person when pressed.
Tips and Tricks To Make Using A Smartphone Easy As Pie
Use a magnifier app to enlarge text on your screen. Magnifiers are helpful for older adults with low vision.
If you have trouble hearing on the phone, use the volume controls to turn up the sound or a hearing aid compatible headset.
There are many apps for seniors, such as medication reminders, hearing aid adjustments, etc.
If you are lost, use your phone’s GPS to find your way home.
Keep an updated list of emergency contact numbers in your cell phone’s address book. The contact list will come in handy if you ever need to call for help.
We hope these tips and tricks will help you make the most of your cell phone. Stay safe and connected.
Which Cell Phone Plan Should You Choose?
There are many cell phone service providers to choose from for your service. However, you will want to consider what type of cell phone user you are before deciding.
Are you someone who needs a lot of talk time? If so, then you may want to look into unlimited talk plans.
Do you use your cell phone primarily for texting and emailing? You may want to look into unlimited text and data plans.
Do you only need a cell phone for emergencies? If so, then you may want to consider a pay-as-you-go plan.
No matter what type of cell phone user you are, a cell phone service provider will suit your needs.
The cheapest carrier plans typically aren’t considered great options by experienced users, but some cheap deals that might meet senior citizens’ needs are available.
Cell phones have become an essential part of society. With how reliant we’ve grown on these gadgets – both personally and professionally – it is no surprise that cell phone use has also increased.
Cell Phones for Seniors
Cell phones have become an essential part of daily life for most of us. We use them to stay connected with friends and family, access the internet, and stay up-to-date on the latest news.
But for seniors, cell phones can provide an even more valuable service: a lifeline in case of emergency.
Verizon offers several cell phones specifically designed for seniors, with features like large buttons and transparent displays.
AARP also offers a cell phone plan for seniors, with discounts on monthly service charges.
And Cellular One has several affordable phone options that are perfect for seniors.
So if you’re looking for a way to help your senior loved ones stay safe and connected, consider getting them a cell phone. It could just be the best decision you ever make.
Best Prepaid Phones for Seniors
As people age, they often find that their needs change. As a result, many seniors find that a prepaid phone is the best option.
Prepaid phones allow users to pay for their minutes in advance, so there is no need to worry about a monthly bill. In addition, prepaid phones can be a good option for seniors who have limited income or poor credit.
When choosing a prepaid phone for a senior citizen, there are a few things to consider.
First, it is essential to ensure that the phone has large buttons and an easy-to-read screen.
Second, it is essential to choose a phone with simple features that are easy to use.
Third, selecting a service provider that offers good coverage in senior citizens’ areas is essential.
By keeping these things in mind, seniors can find the best-prepaid phone to meet their needs.
Best Cell Phones for Senior Citizens: Final Thoughts
Senior citizens deserve the best cell phone options.
You’ll find that there are many options on the market today that are designed specifically for seniors. Some of these features on your phone are more oversized buttons and easy-to-read fonts, higher contrast screens for better viewing in low-light environments, and simplified menus that make it easier to use your phone.
Many phones have voice control, so you can avoid using your fingers or reading instructions if they’re difficult to see or read.
There’s also SOS (emergency) button on some models so you can quickly contact emergency services if needed. It could be Life Saving.
Everyone is taking photos with their cell phones. Watch the video below to learn how to take the best selfies.