Cellular Phones for Seniors You Need to Check Out

So many phones, so much to choose from. So many features, so many options. When it comes to comparing cell phones, it helps to start with a list of what matters most to you!
Senior Products
By Thomas Sechehaye
Hand holds a check from the US treasury with an American flag in the background

Before diving into the different kinds of cellular phones for seniors, let’s start with the most basic question first:

Flip Phone or Smartphone?

Do you want simplicity above all else? Do you need to have big buttons, to accommodate your fingers or manage due to changes in dexterity? If you want to have the ability to text and phone, a simple flip phone with minimal features may do the trick.

Do you want special features to watch videos, make videos and share and receive photos? Do you like to take advantage of virtual assistants, like Siri? Do you want to have the latest technology, such as control over IoT environments and tracking your keys? Do you want to share photos and videos with your grandkids? If you’re looking for these features, check out higher-end smartphones for senior citizens.

Ease of Use

Vision. Hearing. Dexterity. Ease.

Many of the common symptoms of aging affect our choices in cell phones. If vision is challenging, look for larger buttons and a big display screen. If hearing is an issue, check for sound and speaker quality. If dexterity is a concern, look for big buttons. There is a cell phone out there to match your specific needs. It should make your life easier — not harder.

Many older adults prefer to make a list of priorities before shopping. Find the mobile phone for senior citizens right for you. Check the features that matter most, and add in any that aren’t on this starter-list:

  • Big buttons
  • Simple set up
  • A big, bright display
  • Good sound and speakers
  • Long battery life
  • An emergency-help button
  • Solid components
Confused older woman staring at her phone

Dealing with Common Problems That Come with Cellular Phones for Seniors

I don’t know about you. But sometimes, looking at technology choices gets my blood pressure rising.

Over the years, you may have noticed how things changed. It seems as if the buttons got smaller. The screens got tinier. The text shrank in size. Perhaps you’ve got, as I like to call it, “big finger syndrome.” You get frustrated and fed up. Big fingers don’t work with tiny buttons.

Maybe your eyesight isn’t what it used to be. Even with contacts or glasses, tiny numbers and letters can be hard to see.

Possibly, you’ve been noticing changes in your hearing. An old phone may not have the sound quality of speaker precision to make it easy to hear what people are saying.

These are issues that many older adults face. You are not alone. Fortunately, manufacturers are listening. There are tremendous advances in phone design. There is one out there to match your needs.

Finding The Best Cell Phone for You

According to Consumer Affairs, seniors can find the best phone by looking at the categories they most care about. Here’s an overview of their top flip phone, smartphone, and cellphone plan for seniors.

Row of seniors sitting on a bench with phones and tablets

Best cellphone for seniors:

Jitterbug flip phone is the top cell phone pick from Consumer Affairs. Big buttons, large text, backlit buttons make it easy to see and easy to use.

Speakerphone and high-volume enable users to easily hear what people are saying. It doesn’t have fancy features. As a basic phone, it is easy-to-use and affordable.

Best smartphone for seniors:

Jitterbug Smart2 was ranked as the best smart phone for seniors.

Big buttons, big words make it easy to navigate. It has an excellent battery life. Ready to go with: phone, text, camera, Internet, email, maps and a medical alert app.

Best prepaid phone for seniors:

Moto G7 Play by Motorola is recommended by Consumer Affairs as the best prepaid phone for seniors. It’s a cheap smartphone and has some great features such as facial recognition unlock and fingerprint sensor unlock. The audio is clear and loud.

The prepaid option enables users to pay for minutes and texts, instead of a fixed monthly plan.

Best voice-activated phones for seniors:

Perhaps you’re having eye troubles and would prefer a mobile phone that can be accessed using voice commands. Consider using a voice-activated device such as Google Home. Instead of typing the command or question, all you need to do is say “Hey Google” followed by your request.

Best cellphone for hard-of-hearing for seniors:

If your hearing isn’t as sharp as it used to be, go for a cellphone that is designed for hearing-impaired individuals. The Samsung Galaxy S10 can easily pair with your hearing aid, so you can listen through it instead of the phone’s built-in speakers.

Assistance Club Summary

First: Identify what matters most for YOU.

Second: Make a list of the features that matter most, such as ease-of-use and connectivity.

Third: Decide if you want a flip phone or a smart phone.

For super easy-to-use, pick a simple flip phone. Look for big buttons, basic interface, clear display emergency call button, and long battery life.

For the latest technology, check out smart phones. It may take a little navigating, but you’ll have all the bells and whistles to connect with your loved ones.

Getting the best cell phone may take a little work. But it’s worth it! We hope this Senior Assistance Club guide has helped you find one that works for you. Whichever make and model you choose, you and your family will have peace of mind.