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- What are The Easiest & Best Cell Phones for Seniors in 2022 & How to Buy-The Ultimate Guide
What are The Easiest & Best Cell Phones for Seniors in 2022 & How to Buy-The Ultimate Guide
It is necessary for everyone to be linked. Seniors should not be forgotten, especially if they are remote from their families or have special health needs. The smartphone business, on the whole, isn't focused on the needs of seniors, but if you look closely, you can find carriers and phones for Seniors that provide a more simplified and accommodating experience.
Being in the "senior market," as phone manufacturers call it, isn't so much about chronological age as it is about capabilities, preferences, and lifestyle. Many of these phones are suitable for people with impaired vision and hearing, and they are also reasonably priced. Others have high-end features that make life easier for you.
There are some medical alert phones and some general-purpose cellphones on our list. The majority of the phones in this list are offered unlocked, allowing them to be used with any compatible carrier; the rest are usually sold in carrier-specific versions.
The 5 Easiest & Best Cell Phones for Seniors
The Best Cell Phones for Seniors
Lively invented the Jitterbug brand. It is designed to assist the elderly with their smartphone needs by giving an easy-to-use interface and providing easy-to-access emergency services. All of this and more is available with the Jitterbug Smart 2.
The phone has a huge 6.22-inch display, which may make it a little awkward to hold for some, but it makes the icons and other features on the screen much easier to read. A basic menu is structured as a single list, allowing you to quickly access all of your important information.
Lively provides inexpensive plans as well as immediate access to a variety of important car, medical, and emergency services. The device also has 4G connectivity and is hearing aid compatible. It's also incredibly inexpensive, so there's no need to spend a lot of money on it.
The Jitterbug Smart3 is ideal for senior citizens who want to dabble with smartphone technology for the first time without getting overwhelmed by complex capabilities. We gave Lively five out of five stars after conducting extensive research and testing. For more information, see our Lively phone review.
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Who Is Jitterbug Smart3 Best For?
Seniors in need of a simple-to-use smartphone
Drivers over the age of 50 who want mobile directions
Seniors who want a phone that also serves as a personal safety device
Families that want to use the Lively Link app to monitor a loved one
Adults over the age of 50 who want to make video calls
What You Should Know Before Buying?
Check Verizon coverage in your area before choosing the Jitterbug Smart3, as Lively uses Verizon's cell towers. Also, make certain that a touchscreen smartphone is what you actually want. You can use your favorite texting, social networking and calling app on a basic cell phone rather than purchasing a phone with more features that you won't need.
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The Best Cell Phones for Seniors
Moving away from the smartphone, and into a flip phone, Jitterbug Flip2 is an affordable and easy-to-use option with priority response capabilities. It features a long battery life, a powerful speaker and buttons, a large ratable screen, and a magnifier with a flashlight. This cell phone is perfect for older adults, who are more likely to have hearing-, vision- and finger disabilities. With the built-in Amazon Alexa assistant, they can communicate voicelessly with family members using this device.
The Safety Plan for seniors is a monthly subscription service for $ 19.99 to help them stay safe. They just need to press the Urgent Response button to connect with a certified emergency response agent through the phone's mobile app.
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Who Is Jitterbug Flip2 Best For?
Seniors who want to keep their handsets old school
Seniors who need extra safety features
Family wants to know where loved one is? Get Lively Link
Seniors who need to find out how to keep their same phone number
Those looking for voice control
What You Should Know Before Buying?
Lively uses Verizon as its network provider. If you don’t have reliable Verizon service, you can’t use Lively. Be sure to thoroughly explore the pricing for Lively, so you don’t pay for more than you need. The most expensive plan is $54.99 per month with Unlimited Talk & Text + Ultimate Health & Saftey. However, there are plenty of cheaper options starting at $14.99 per monlth for 300 minutes of calls and text messages. Consider what your needs will be and how much you need the phone to do before deciding on a plan that is right for you.
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The Best Cell Phones for Seniors
Because you can stream audio from the iPad Mini to compatible hearing aids, we rated it as the best cell phone for seniors with hearing aids. Even though the iPad Mini is a tablet, it can also be used as a cellphone, which is especially useful for seniors who don't plan to carry it around with them. The iPad Mini has a large range of apps, so there's no reason to get bored when using it. If you want to listen to music, you can also plug in headphones. The display is vibrant, colorful, and easy to read. This makes it ideal for sharing friends' and family's images and movies. The camera is well-built and capable of producing excellent images both indoors and outdoors.
The Apple Pencil, a stylus that allows you to write and draw on the tablet, is compatible with the iPad Mini. The Apple Pencil is priced at $99. The 64GB Wi-Fi version of the Mini costs $399. Expect to pay $549 for 256GB. The iPad Mini cellular variant costs $529. The Mini is only 10.6 ounces in weight, making it easy to transport. It sports a 7.9-inch diagonal screen versus 9.7-inch diagonal screens on standard iPads. Touch ID can be used by seniors to gain access to the Mini.
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Who Is iPad Mini Best For?
The iPad Mini is certainly the finest pick if you're searching for a compact tablet that can also double as a telephone and entertainment device.
What You Should Know Before Buying?
Unless you purchase the cellular version of the iPad Mini, you will not be able to make phone calls. You may still make calls using 3G or Wi-Fi, though. Furthermore, programs such as Skype or Google Hangouts allow you to communicate with loved ones in real time.
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The Best Cell Phones for Seniors
The Alcatel GO FLIP 3 could be exactly what you're seeking for if you want some of the necessary functions of a smartphone without the frills. Google Assistant, a mobile hotspot, and email capability are among the high-tech features on the pocket-sized flip phone. However, because of its large buttons, simple menu, and straightforward design, it is still ideal for older folks who are new to mobile devices. The Alcatel GO FLIP 3 from T-Mobile debuted at the top of this list due to its blend of simplicity and advanced technology at an affordable price.
We can't talk about T-Mobile without mentioning their low prices and unique 55+ plans. That's true, T-Mobile created these plans with the budgets and lives of senior citizens in mind! We're impressed by the provider's attempt to offer elders with extra advantages and cheap plans, with options starting at $40 per month for one line and nationwide availability. For additional information, see our comprehensive evaluation of T-55+ Mobile's plans.
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Who Is Alcatel GO FLIP 3 Best For?
Seniors looking for a flip phone with some modern features
Budget-conscious seniors
Couples want to take advantage of T-55+ Mobile's plans
Seniors with deteriorating vision
Those who will primarily use their cellphone for messaging and making phone calls
What You Should Know Before Buying？
We have to admit that the Alcatel GO FLIP 3's camera isn't the best. You'll be able to capture images of your adorable grandkids or furry pets, but they won't be as high-quality as before. The Alcatel GO FLIP 3 will suffice for seniors who expect to use their mobile device primarily for messaging and phone calls.
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The Best Cell Phones for Seniors
With large keys and streamlined menus, the Snapfon ez4G has a simple yet functional design. You can access a calculator, take pictures, send texts, turn on the flashlight, and make calls using only the buttons (no extra navigating required). You can even use the phone's smartphone applications, such as Facebook, email, and the weather.
Snapfon ez4G also includes basic security features. Seniors who have purchased the sosPlus plan can request assistance by pressing the phone's red SOS button. This connects you with a trained agent who will assist you, connect you with emergency services, and notify your family and friends that an emergency has occurred.The phone also has built-in fall detection capabilities, which is unusual for a cell phone. It's an excellent choice for those looking for a simple phone with powerful medical alert capabilities.
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Who Is Snapfon ez4G Best For?
Seniors in need of a small, user-friendly cell phone
Budget-conscious senior citizens
Hearing aid users
Adults over the age of 50 who wish to download apps to their phones
Users who are looking for more advanced health and safety features.
What You Should Know Before Buying？
The Snapfon ez4G provides older individuals with added functionality like as GPS and mobile apps while remaining easy. The ez4G makes it simple to download apps such as the finest cell phone apps for older folks in addition to the phone's preinstalled apps. With its 5MP camera, don't expect to snap any award-winning photos or video chat with your loved ones. However, if you're just looking for something with a few sophisticated features that's still affordable, this shouldn't be an issue.
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What features we consider to rank the best cell phones for seniors
Flip or block phones have a range of features that make life easier for older adults. While smartphones are more complex and give access to the internet, they have many benefits for older adults too.
Bigger Buttons and Screens
Cell phones with larger buttons are usually easier to use and will have fonts that are easy on the eyes. Flip or block phones can have large buttons, which might be good for people with a disability.
Emergency Functions
There are special plans for your phone to make it easy for someone to find out if you need medical attention. There is even a button on the Lively phone to push in case of an emergency.
GPS to help find your way
GPS is good for parents whose kids are lost, or for people who need help finding a desired location and searching for driving directions. Some GPS apps also allow other family members or emergency services personnel to find the user, in case of an emergency.
Fitness, Wellness, and Health Tools
Smartphones can be used to track even the most minute of a person's health. The phone will count how many steps are taken and food eaten, as well as help improve skills such as memory.
Alerts, Alarms, and Timers
Most phones have an alarm option that can remind you to take medications and go to appointments.
The Connection Internet
The internet makes it easy to check the weather, emails, calendar notifications, and other things. Those who value being connected should get a phone with an internet plan.
Simple menus
People who prefer flip or block phones are able to easily access simple menus. They can also add or delete menu items on their smartphone to have a reduced number of choices.
Higher Volume Options
There are many phone options, such as smartphones with louder speakers, that are accessible for those with hearing loss.
Voice Typing and Voiceover Features
Apps like Siri allow us to use voice commands, so we don’t need to use keyboards for interactions. Similarly, the phone can read texts aloud when a new message is received.
Magnifying Cameras
Camera phones can magnify small things making them easier to read.
Closed Captioning
Closed captions on smartphones help adults with hearing impairment.
Fingerprint or Face Recognition Systems
Newer models of smart phones use fingerprint and facial recognition as a way to unlock the phone. This is fantastic for older adults who often forget their passwords.
What to consider when looking for Cell Phones for Seniors
If you need a phone for an older user, look for more than just a basic phone. You’ll want to look for things like big buttons, or a large font size to make the screens easier to read.
There are many different older users who have their own needs. Decide what the person will mostly be using the phone for and whenever video calls can be made easier, adding a phone is a great idea. We’ve got phones that are easy to use or closer to smartphones for elderly people here at Three.
Simple Feature Phones
For a person who likes to talk and text, there are great phones on the market like the Doro 6620.
Smartphones
More and more people are buying smartphones for older users. The reason is simple – they’re the best phones for anyone to use.
Easy mode
Today's Android smartphones provide a "easy mode" option. As you might expect, this streamlines how you operate the phone and increases the size of the icons and text on the screen. Purchasing a video phone for aging relatives is an excellent approach to stay connected while we are all separated.
Practice makes smartphones perfect
Most people older than a certain age just want a phone that connects them with family and friends. Newer phones take some time to get used to, so many younger users will want apps in addition to their phone's simple functions.
Another way to stay connected with a smartphone is to download a Call + Messenger app like Google Duo.
Cell Phone Insurance and Protection Plans
While today's cell phones are built to be sturdy (particularly flip and block phones), they can still fall and break. While cases and screen protectors can help safeguard your phone, there is still the possibility that the screen will shatter or the hardware will fail.
Repairing these problems could be quite costly. Depending on the phone and the size of the screen, a broken screen might cost anywhere from $100 to $300. Repairing other problems, such as broken buttons or water damage, can cost $100 or more. Smartphones, in particular, are extremely sensitive, and some hardware issues may necessitate a complete replacement. If a phone is lost or stolen, the buyer will be responsible for the entire cost of the phone.
Theft, loss, and damage are all covered by most major cell phone insurance plans. For individuals with premium phone models, an extended warranty or insurance plan is a good idea, but for those with less expensive models, a manufacturer's guarantee may sufficient.
Outside parties, such as Assurant or Asurion, are frequently used to provide cell phone carrier insurance coverage. Make sure to read the tiny print to make sure you're getting the coverage you paid for. The devices and batteries on Lively phones come with a standard one-year warranty, but this does not cover accidental damage.
The Best Cell Phones for Seniors
What makes phones for seniors different?
If you are looking for a simplified phone that has everything minus the touchscreen, then you may prefer a mobile device without it.
a simple, retro design
Reducing User Frustration with Clear Navigation
Even the most expensive smartphones still cost less than this phone.
We tested several models.
Some manufacturers participate in the marketing of phone for senior citizens. There are some phones that have certain features for seniors, such as low-light display and audio enhancement, to make it easier for them to use the phone.
large buttons
Limited vision settings (e.g. large text)
Added features for people with hearing disabilities, like louder volume and hearing-aid connectivity.
Assistive robotic arms can be a good option for people with disabilities or those who lack the dexterity to do certain tasks.
Things to think about before getting a low-cost smartphone for seniors
You may want to explore a low-cost model instead of an expensive smartphone if the high costs are too much to bear. They might be cheaper to customize than a simple phone.
A variety of apps are available that suit different needs, such as for kids or for elderly Australians.
Inbuilt accessibility features such as magnification, colour correction and screen readers (for blind or low-vision individuals) provide adaptive technology that can be used independently or with other assistive technologies.
Then there's the seemingly limitless array of commercial and free third-party apps that can transform your smartphone into a disability-assistance device. We tested a handful of these apps for Android smartphones and found that they worked well, so they could be a good alternative for you if you're on a budget.
There are also hearing aids that come with earpieces and others that can magnify a picture using the power of the inbuilt camera.
3 tips for making cell phones more user-friendly for the elderly
Download a Launcher App to Increase Accessibility
If you have an iPhone or Android, you can create a custom interface for these devices that is easier to navigate. There are free versions of these available on the app store.
To use the Touch Whiz interface, turn on Easy Mode.
We've already mentioned the Samsung Galaxy S7 as one of the best smartphones for seniors. There is, however, a technique to make almost any Samsung smartphone, including the Galaxy S7, even easier to use: Easy Mode is on! Essentially, it alters your phone's interface to clear out the unnecessary features and prioritize the most important ones with larger icons. It also allows you to turn off some programs' complex features so you don't feel overwhelmed when trying to utilize them.
The process for enabling Easy Mode is the same for Samsung devices, but we’ll show you how it works for the Galaxy S7. Open Settings and tap Apps. From there tap Easy Mode and turn on or off as desired.
You can preview Easy Mode by tapping the buttons beneath. Easy Mode is displayed with the time, weather and most used apps on the main screen, with your contacts and any other apps underneath it. You can tap either “Easy Mode” or “Standard Mode” in order to change the display style.
To make your phone easier to use, ask the provider about features like an SOS button, a large keypad
When choosing a phone for an older person, consider the size of the display and the accessibility features. These include voice commands and commands to increase font sizes and turn user interfaces simpler.
You definitely want to ask what kind of features are available on a phone before you purchase it and make sure that it has the features you'll need, such as one with hearing aid compatibility or audio-assisted keypads.
This guide is hoping to help you pick the best type of cell phone for you or a loved one. Head over to our Android or iOS sections if you have any questions! We also have a section on digital literacy- with resources on how to use technology, no matter what your background.
The Best Cell Phones for Seniors
What are the Potential Benefits of Having a Smartphone for seniors?
Smart Devices
If you or the senior you care for live alone, it is vital that they install smart devices around their home. With these, a smartphone will be essential for managing all of the IoT products. You can accomplish custom tasks through personal apps on your phone, like turning on the lights or your thermostat.
Stimulation
Seniors can use brain-training apps to slow aging and stay mentally fresh. The app uses memory and logical thinking games that may help seniors sharpen their thinking skills.
Virtual Assistants
These virtual assistants can make it easier to perform tasks on your phone, such as making a call or answering a question. They also eliminate the need to type full sentences.
iPhone users have a virtual assistant called Siri, and Android users have a range of apps to choose from.
Entertainment
Social media and audiobooks can provide entertainment for seniors living alone. Additionally, smartphones can help keep them connected with old friends or family as well as provide access to games and apps.
Greater Sharing Capacity
Seniors who use smartphones can feel more connected and communicate with loved ones more easily. This can be especially helpful for seniors who live far away from their friends and grandchildren. Unless they want to move closer, they can still stay close with their families using video chatting on their smartphones.
Practical apps
With an app, seniors can live confidently and independently with the help of their smartphone. These apps allow them to reveal where they parked, take medication on time, and get severe weather alerts.
Electronic Tracking
If you tend to lose glasses cases and keys, you can purchase electronic tracking tiles that allow you to find these items by their beeping noise. Some of these items come with an alert to accompany the sound.
What are the Potential Drawbacks of Owning a Smartphone?
A cure for failing early learners
If you are technologically illiterate, you may struggle with keeping up with technology just as much as if you were younger. Therefore, seniors may need something basic, such as a traditional phone, to practice their existing skills and avoid making themselves more frustrated.
The Benefits of Choosing Multiples
Some people may not be able to use as many features in their phone as they would like because there are so many applications that require uploading personal data. These extra apps can make it hard to access basic options, like texting and finding the time.
Expense
The most basic smartphone will cost you at least a hundred dollars, with top-of-the-line phones costing up to $1,000 - meaning it might not be worth the money unless you plan on using many of the features. Additionally, carriers lock people into a long-term contract and require you to pay monthly fees for at least 1 year or more. A smartphone plan also requires that you pay for data, or internet or your apps, in addition to basic calls and texting - making it more expensive than a basic phone plan.
Potential For Theft
If a smartphone could make you more susceptible to theft, choose a flip or bar phone instead. Thieves are less likely to target these devices due to their cheaper price point.
A Costly Mistake
You may be tempted in investing in different apps and online shopping, which can lead to increased prices for smartphones. Take caution when downloading free apps that offer in-app purchases as they have the potential to cause you to spend more, often without realizing it.
It can be difficult to set up
Researching a smart phone before you purchase it helps save time when setting it up. If possible, ask a friend or family member to help set it up or ask the store representative for help before you leave. When trading in an old phone, make sure to ask the technical associate for assistance. This will help ensure that any personal data and contacts from your old device will be transferred to your new one.
iPhones come with Siri, and Android users can choose from a range of assistants that perform the same function.
Types of cell phones for seniors
It’s common knowledge that cell phones come in many different shapes and sizes. Let’s take a closer look at these categories.
Flip phones
Some flip phones open and close on a hinge to reveal a tiny display and buttons. These phones have a simple design, long battery life, and are easy to use. They are often good for adults who only want to text or make phone calls because of the small screens. Flip phones can sometimes connect to the internet too, making it less cumbersome to use.
Block and slider phone
Block and slider phones by Copymatic are ideal for those who have limited dexterity and vision issues. They have a large screen that slides up to reveal a full keyboard and include a touchscreen, like most smartphones.
Smartphones
A smartphone is a device that displays a touch-sensitive screen and can make calls, send text messages, and access the internet. A smartphone provides for large text and buttons, making them easier for those with vision impairments to use. Smartphones also have increased accessibility for older adults in connecting to family, close friends, and medical alert systems.
There are many different types of smartphones with varying interfaces and performance. Before choosing, it’s important to research which operating system would be best for your needs as well as positives and negatives associated with each one.(cheaper phones)
FAQ about Cell Phones for Seniors
Why should seniors have a cell phone?
Seniors require cell phones for medical emergencies, keeping in touch with friends and family, and remaining secure both inside and outside the home. A cell phone can be a source of sociability and safety for older persons who live alone and plan to age in place.
What type of cell Phones plan should seniors get?
The following are some of the most popular cell phone plans for seniors:Pay as you go: This type of plan is exactly what it sounds like: you pay for what you use rather than signing a contract. These plans are less difficult to cancel than conventional arrangements.
Flexible: To begin with, flexible plans usually have a low base rate. The cost of texting and calling is added to the bill. This is ideal for elderly who want a phone but don't expect to use it much.
This type of package allows seniors to make as many calls and texts as they desire. Unlimited plans are ideal if cost isn't a concern and you want complete control over your cell usage.
Senior-specific perks: Several providers offer senior-specific benefits. Discounts on standard monthly plans may be available, as well as additional senior-specific services such as medication reminders or doctor check-in applications.
Low-cost: Some cell phone companies provide discounts to senior citizens. Low-cost cell phone plans can also help seniors on a fixed income and others who qualify for government programs.
Can you use a hearing aid with your phones for seniors ?
If you have a hearing aid and want to get a new phone, buy one that is compatible with your hearing aid.
The T rating on a phone corresponds to how well it handles a hearing device with telecoil.
A telecoil bypasses phone speakers and lets you get pure playback sound straight into the hearing aid. This is a feature in some audio devices like earphones.
The M rating is not necessarily an indicator of how well the phone deals with hearing aids.
If a mobile phone has an M3 rating, it won’t produce much electromagnetic interference when you hold the phone up to your ear.
What are some of the advantages of owning a smartphone?
A smartphone has significantly more capabilities than a flip phone. The screens are much larger and easier to read, you can tell your phone what to do with voice commands, and there are useful apps for fitness tracking and prescription reminders.
What are some of the disadvantages of owning a smartphone?
For elders who have never used a smartphone before, there is always a learning curve. If you buy a smartphone that is extremely complicated, it can be difficult to use. Smartphones can also be difficult to set up, and their high cost makes them vulnerable to theft.
What are “unlocked” cell phones for seniors?
The majority of phones are "locked," which means they are connected to a certain network. Unlocked phones are not bound to any particular network, allowing you to purchase the phone and then select the network of your choice.
What are "prepaid" phones for seniors?
A prepaid phone is one that is used on a pay-as-you-go basis. You are not required to sign up for a monthly plan. Instead, you just pay for the services you utilize.