Can’t Keep Up With Technology? The Best Cell Phones for Senior Citizens

Apple iPhone 6S

The key highlight of this cell phone is its intuitive software. You don’t have to be tech-savvy to figure out how to navigate the messaging, email, and call log icons on this gadget. We also like the 4.7-inch, 750 by 1334 pixels display, which makes reading and viewing notifications a breeze. Another feature that seniors will love from this phone is the fingerprint reader, which is used to lock the device. It eliminates the need for having to remember dang passwords.

The Apple 6S is built with 16GB of storage space. While most youngsters would complain about this being a limited storage capacity, this is perfect for seniors. Unless your grandma likes snapping selfies all day, this is more than enough space for the essential applications. This cell phone is certified refurbished; hence, the decent price. Amazon reports that the cell phone has been tested and certified by a third-party refurbisher for durability and quality performance. In fact, the manufacturer even provides a 90-day warranty, so in case it stops working, you can always return it.

Asus Zenfone

Another top-notch yet simple elderly cell phone is the Asus ZenFone. What sets this phone apart is its long-lasting battery. Most seniors may not drain their batteries using Twitter as fast as the rest of us do, but keeping these gadgets powered is crucial. This cell phone uses a high-capacity battery of 5000mAh, which promises an incredible performance. Based on customer reviews, the phone can run for up to four days without requiring a recharge.

It also has a 5.5-inch AMOLED Gorilla glass display. The resolution for this display is 1920*1080 FHD and it runs on the Android Nougat 7.1.1. Asus ZenFone is also fitted with three premium-grade cameras: one 13-megapixel at the front and two 12-megapixel cameras on the back. With 3GB memory capacity and Adreno 506 graphics performance, this cell phone has all that you need as an elderly person.

Jitterbug Smart

If you have a problem with your vision, the Jitterbug Smart is designed for you. It has a massive 5.5-inch touchscreen and easy-to-use features. It utilizes the 5Star Urgent Response software by Android and has a 1280*720 display, which is encased by a black bezel. What makes this display stand out from the crowd is the fact that it’s bright, sharp and has multiple viewing angles. What’s more, it displays text in an extra-large font with all the app icons being readily accessible for a quick navigation.

Jitterbug provides nationwide network coverage, allowing you to keep in touch with your friends and family. Moreover, Jitterbug has incorporated the 5Star service, which is designed to provide instant and round-the-clock access to help with the click of a single button. When you press this icon, you’ll be connected to an agent immediately. The agent will then assess your situation to determine whether you need medical aid or emergency services. On top of this, the Jitterbug Smart cell phone is compatible with hearing aids and it gives you a louder-than-usual speakerphone to increase support for seniors.

Jitterbug Touch3

Some seniors may find the 5.5-inch display of the Jitterbug Smart a little too big. If you fall into this category, then the Jitterbug Touch3, which is invented by the same company, makes an excellent alternative. Its display is 4 inches in size, making it relatively easier to handle. This cell phone also comes with a 5MP camera located on the back and is compatible with hearing aids.

One of the things we love about Jitterbug Touch3 is its user-friendly interface. All the contacts and app icons are within reach, so an elderly user will not spend eternity trying to navigate this phone. But, more importantly, the Touch3 comes with medical and emergency services, which are provided on an affordable monthly subscription plan. Other features of this cell phone include 4GB internal storage space, 1500mAh battery, and a 1.2 GHz dual-core processor.

Snapfon

Although Snapfon is an unfamiliar term to the current generation, it is one of the best gadgets for the senior crowd. It has a plastic build, which is not only sturdy but also comfortable to hold. Most seniors love the large, rubbery keypad, which makes navigating this cell phone incredibly easy. And, although the 1.8-inch display is a little small, it showcases text and numbers in black and white colors, to make reading easy. The 1000mAh battery can keep the phone functioning for several days. We understand that it does not have the longest life battery in the elderly phone category, but at least it’s good enough to keep the phone working for three days.

On the rear side of the device is a red SOS button. To activate it, just hold the cell phone for a couple of seconds and this will link you to OneCall mobile response provider. This agent will then contact 911 or notify a pre-selected contact. Ideally, this service is available for just $15 per month. As Snapfon falls under quad-band GSM devices, it has support for T-Mobile’s 2G network, Bluetooth, VGA camera, and an optional speaking keypad.

Doro PhoneEasy 626

If you’re looking to buy your grandfather a cell phone as a New Year gift, consider the Doro PhoneEasy 626. It’s a flip phone that’s pretty easy to use. Like many flip phones, the Doro confers tons of benefits. For one, flip phones have always been cheaper than other models. This particular one goes for around $62 on Amazon. It’s also much smaller in size, making it easy for any senior to handle. Another perk from PhoneEasy 626 is convenience. To answer a call, you just flip the cell phone open and then flip it closed to hang up the call.

In addition, this cell phone is designed to be compatible with hearing aids. It also has high volume settings and the battery lasts for up to six hours on a single charge. If you only use this flip phone for emergency purposes, this battery will last even longer.

Emporia Smart

Do you want a cell phone that offers the best of both worlds? The Emporia Smart is your best bet. It features a full-fledged Android touchscreen system as well as a keypad cover for seniors, who prefer to dial numbers and letters using the physical keypad. Obviously, if you don’t like the keypad you can just remove it completely.

Emporia Smart runs on Android 4.4.2 KitKat, which makes use of large buttons and a user-friendly menu for quick navigation. If you don’t feel that comfortable using the touchscreen interface, you can use the stylus equipped with this cell phone. Also of importance is the emergency call button, which is automated to transmit calls to 5 preset contacts. Other features incorporated in this smart device include a 2600mAh battery, 4 GB internal storage space and 4.5-inch display.

Evaluate its Use

If you walk to any Verizon store, chances are that the vendor will start pitching a $200 iPhone to you. However, it’s highly unlikely that your grandmother will keep checking her Facebook page so it would not be logical to spend that much. Ideally, the cell phone should only have the must-have features. For example, if the elderly person intends to keep the phone in the car, then it should probably come with a car charger and a keypad that is large enough to see in the dark.

Consider Pre-Paid and Pay-as-You-Go Plans

Another issue to account for is the number of calls for which the cell phone is likely to be used to make. If the cell phone will be used for a number of calls, then it’s best that you subscribe to a regular monthly service. On the other hand, if it’s only really going to be used for emergencies, a prepaid or pay-as-you-go plan is more economical.

Conclusion

At present, smartphone companies are in a heated battle to make the best phones for seniors. These firms realized that the usual cell phones cannot be used by our grandparents, who only wish to text or call loved ones on occasion. As such, there are several cell phone models that are fit for the elderly population. They include Apple’s iPhone 6S, Emporia Smart, Jitterbug Smart and Jitterbug Touch3. When buying a cell phone for a senior, do not go for very sophisticated brands. Just ensure that it has a large display, a user-friendly interface and an easy-to-use keypad.