Cell phones for seniors offer a lot of benefits to elderly people. Not only that it helps seniors connect with their loved ones despite the distance, but it also offers entertainment, health alerts, and emergency assistance. Also, given the high demand for gadgets nowadays, a cell phone will give them a sense of belonging in the 21st-century digital world.
Cell phones suitable for seniors should include features like large fonts, voice typing, text-to-speech, simple interface, and health alerts. There are many cell phones for seniors available on the market, and in this article, we will help you find the best cell phone model that meets your needs.
Unlike standard smartphones that people use nowadays, cell phones for seniors are versions that are specially designed to meet the needs of the elderly. For example, unlike other smartphones with complex controls, cell phones have simpler and more accessible controls so that seniors can easily familiarize themselves with the features without trouble.
There’s no doubt that owning a cell phone offers many benefits to young and old alike, however, it also comes with several disadvantages. In this section, we will share a list of the advantages and disadvantages of cell phones.
Advantages
Some advantages of cell phones include the following:
Suitable for Seniors' Needs
Standard smartphones usually have small font displays, a seemingly uncountable number of apps, and complex controls, all of which go beyond the capabilities of seniors especially those with cognitive and visual impairments.
Fortunately, cell phones for seniors offer simpler and easy-to-use features. Not only that, cell phones are crafted to provide seniors’ needs such as health alerts and direct emergency contacts.
Simple Controls
As stated previously, cell phones intended for seniors have more simplified controls than standard smartphones today. For example, cell phones for seniors such as Jitterbug Smart 3 have fewer apps than other standard smartphones.
Easier Access to Emergency
Cell phones such as the Jitterbug Flip 2 have a special SOS button that seniors can press during emergencies. Once pressed, the phone will automatically contact a loved one or a Lively agent who will then provide the help the senior owner needs.
More Durable than Standard Smartphones
It’s no doubt that smartphones such as Samsung, Xiaomi, Huawei, Oppo, and others have been taking the limelight for years now. Though these phones indeed possess high-end features that meet the demands of the young generation, oftentimes, manufacturers forget the value of durability.
Cell phones for seniors are crafted with a primary focus on practicality and durability. In fact, compared to standard smartphones, cell phones for seniors can last longer without their speed and overall functionality being affected.
Heavy-Duty Battery
Another primary focus of manufacturers is the phone’s battery life. We all want a phone that can last long even if it’s frequently used, however, if you would notice, most smartphones cannot last longer than 24 hours without recharging it.
The good thing about cell phones for seniors is that they have longer battery life. So, even if you forgot to bring your charger with you when going out, you don’t have to worry about your phone being drained.
Promotes Communication with Loved Ones
Most cell phones are programmed with a phonebook where you can save loved ones’ contact info. On some models, the list of contacts can be directly accessed as you unlock the device. This helps seniors find a loved one to talk with easily, especially during emergencies.
Disadvantages
Though cell phones offer many benefits, they also come with several disadvantages such as:
Risk of Secret Charges
Most companies that sell cell phones to seniors include plans on how much data and load limit the owner prefers to use every month. This is indeed a good thing as the owner doesn’t have to fuss about manually reloading the device to use calls, texts, and data. However, these plans can sometimes charge secret fees without the owner noticing.
No Video Call Option
Other devices for seniors usually don’t support video calls.
No Virtual Assistant Included
Though some devices have virtual assistance and text-to-speech features which are suitable for seniors with hearing, mobility, and visual impairments, some cell phones like flip phones may not support these features.
Here are some of the top cell phone choices for seniors.
Jitterbug Flip 2
Jitterbug Flip 2 by Lively is one of the most patronized cell phones due to its durability, simplicity, and affordability. It only costs about 70 to 75 dollars, and while it may not have the features that smartphones have today, its simple functions make it a good choice for seniors.
Jitterbug Smart 3
This is another device by Lively that is specially designed for seniors. It is a fine choice if you are a senior who wants to be in league with smartphone users. Jitterbug Smart 3 is crafted with the interface of a standard smartphone, but unlike those which have complex functions and tiny icons, Smart 3 has just a few apps such as contacts, dial pad, emergency app, etc. and it has large icons and fonts best for seniors with visual impairments.
RAZ Memory Cell Phone
Created by RAZ Mobility, this device is thoroughly crafted to meet the needs of seniors with cognitive decline. Its loudspeakers, clear and large text, and smooth touch screen make it senior-friendly. It also features an accessible dial button and contact list where seniors can make a few simple taps to contact loved ones.
Final Word
We cannot deny that owning a cell phone offers many benefits. It helps us stay in touch with loved ones and friends who are far away. Cell phones also help us to stay updated with the latest news, issues, and events even in the comforts of our homes. To seniors, cell phones enabled them to monitor their health through health alert features.
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