It is a common misconception that elderly folks are unable to adapt to new technology. As a result, younger family members may hesitate to assist their elderly family members with purchasing expensive new gear out of fear it may go unused. But now, younger generations find that their senior loved ones can quickly learn to use new forms of technology with just a little practice and patience.
Recent studies have shown that the coronavirus pandemic may have allowed seniors to utilize technology significantly more than before COVID-19. For example, older individuals who couldn’t visit in person now use their phones and computers to keep in touch with family and friends. Other seniors are using grocery delivery apps like Instacart to avoid in-person visits to the store.
Pandemic or not, it is essential for senior citizens to think about joining the world of technology. Today’s technology can help elderly folks stay connected socially, shop online, set reminders, make lists, automate home functions, aid in an emergency, and surf the internet. Regardless of your reasons for investing, seniors have a lot to gain by learning to use the technology available to them.
If you are unsure of where to begin technology-wise, consider starting with a cell phone. Many phones on the market are geared explicitly towards seniors and have the added benefit of simple setup. Seniors may need to consider certain features like weight, size, and text visibility options to find the phone that will work best for them. If you need ideas for the best elderly-friendly cell phones of the 21st century, read on for suggestions.
Lively cell phones for seniors
If you want an affordable, compact, and easy-to-use phone without too many complicated bells and whistles, you may want to consider purchasing a flip phone. Lively cell phones are a good solution for seniors who need to do more than just make phone calls. With a Lively flip phone, you can call, text, take photos, alert emergency services, set alarms, listen to the radio, and more. An additional bonus feature of the Lively is that it can hail rideshare services for you by calling an operator at Lyft. This cell phone can even respond to Amazon Alexa voice commands. A simple-to-use menu and navigation system accompanies these features and makes this type of cell phone ideal for seniors new to the world of cellular phones.
Jitterbug Smart2
The Jitterbug Smart2 is a smartphone that is designed specifically with seniors in mind. This phone is similar to the modern smartphone and comes with a wide selection of assistive features. The Smart2 has essential smartphone functions (email, calendar, calling) and comes pre-installed with 5Star Urgent Assistance and the GreatCall Link app specifically for caregiver communication. This phone is ideal for seniors who are slightly more technologically-savvy and want a smartphone’s look and feel but don’t like excessive high-tech features weighing them down. This phone is also great for seniors who benefit from assistive cell phone features that may not come ready to go on other phones.
Apple iPhone
If you feel confident in your ability to make technology work for you, this could be a sign that you are ready for an Apple iPhone. These phones are available from various carriers, and some providers, like T-Mobile, even have senior discounts for service. An iPhone comes with plenty of storage space for those who are interested in storing photos and videos on their devices. The app store has countless senior-friendly apps ready to be downloaded, like grocery delivery apps, medication reminders, and apps that can alert medical personnel in case of an emergency. The downside to the iPhone for most folks is the price. People also find fault with the inability to change the user interface, which could be necessary for hearing or vision impaired seniors.
Alcatel Go Flip 3
The Alcatel Go Flip 3 is a combination of a smartphone and a flip phone. It is perfect for seniors that prefer a flip phone’s size and limited capabilities who also desire internet connectivity and certain apps available for download. This phone also allows you to dictate words instead of spending time typing them all out, which could be an excellent feature for those with arthritis or vision impairments.
Motorola Moto G7 Power
The Motorola Moto G7 Power is known for its extremely long battery life. A single charge can last this smartphone up to two full days, a life-saving feature in a medical emergency. Many tech insiders consider this smartphone to be one of the best phones on the market for under $250. The phone has Motorola accessibility settings, which seniors can adjust as necessary if they have trouble seeing or hearing. The Motorola Moto can also support many senior-friendly apps that are ready for download. Some seniors found downsides to this device in its large size and glass surface. However, if you can look past the phone’s physical attributes, it may be the ideal device for you.
Sonim XP3
The Sonim XP3 is one of the most durable flip-phones on the market in the 21st century. The phone boasts a very loud ringer and can make extra-clear calls over 4G LTE, unlike many similar flip phones. This phone is also almost entirely waterproof and comes with a three-year warranty. If you live in a rural area or are perhaps a little accident-prone, the Sonim XP3 may work for you. This phone is also easy to navigate, has several call-screening options to prevent spam, and is voice-command capable.
The BlackBerry Key2 LE
For seniors who may want a device that features a keypad but also has smartphone functionality, the BlackBerry Key2 LE may be something you want to consider. Like many of the previously mentioned cell phones, this device can host many senior-friendly apps to make your life easier. Many users love this phone for the tactile buttons that are more predictable than glass buttons on a smartphone. The BlackBerry is also textured and has a rubberized backing for a more secure grip. This device is excellent for potential first-time-smartphone users who want to try out a more sophisticated phone but are hesitant to purchase an iPhone or an Android right away.
Wrapping it up
There are many cell phones on the market today that are very elderly-friendly. Investing in a cell phone can be intimidating, especially if you are unsure which phone is the best fit. Make yourself a list of the features you hope to have in your next cell phone. After you know what you want, you’ll be well on your way to adding a helpful piece of new technology to your life.
