Cell phones for older adults It can potentially play a significant role in assisting older people in The use of mobile phones by older adults. Search. Stay connected with user-friendly devices and affordable options. Good ol' flip phoneThe older we get, the fewer tasks are required from our phones. 1 She uses hearing aids, so I understand the importance of finding a phone with features for seniors with hearing loss. Either way, AT&T has you covered. Additionally, all of the phones on this list are compatible with hearing aids. Select the department The Cheapest Cell Phones for Older People. Best cell phones for seniors 2024-04-04 - Jim Miller Dear Savvy Senior, Send your senior questions to: Savvy Senior, P. Here is a list of the best cell phones for seniors to use to keep in touch with their loved ones. For seniors looking for a budget-friendly option, the Nokia 225 4G offers basic functionalities at an affordable price. While there are plenty of great flip phones available for seniors who do not wish to use smart technology, there are also easy-to-use smartphones The percentage of adults 65 and older who use a cell phone has doubled since 2015! 1. Best of all, Samsung’s Android phones are often just as easy to use as iPhones. The phones listed above offer a variety of features ranging from simple flip phones to full For its price and value, T-Mobile's Essentials Choice 55 plan is a solid proposition for older adults. Motorola Moto G54 5G: Best all-round simple smartphone. It was easy to use my phone to listen to Spotify, watch funny videos of Free or Low-Cost Cell Phone Plans for Seniors. I List of phones for seniors Below is a selection of the most popular simple flip phones and simple mobile phones for seniors available on AirTalk Wireless. especially when considering the unique needs of older adults. In terms of design, this phone features a small external screen that Best mobile phone for older people: Discover the top picks for senior-friendly features, ease of use, and accessibility. There is also a difference in the use of the technology by those aged 60-74 years versus those aged >85 years. Senior-friendly cell phones play a crucial role in empowering older individuals by making communication simple and accessible. Taylor Shuman Senior Tech Expert & Editor. Nokia 225 4G. Price: $429 – $579 from Consumer Cellular As with any iPhone, the iPhone SE offers a stellar combination of intuitive design and high-end features. Mobile apps are becoming increasingly prevalent in the lives of older adults. Best Phone Carriers for Older Adults Consumer Cellular excels in customer service, with U. IRIS Easy All of the cell phone models and carriers on our list offer month-to-month options, so you can cancel your service at any time without any extra hassle. If you aren’t a fan of apps and newer phone features, focus your attention on basic cell phones. ; Clear displays: With nearly 15 percent of people over 65 The best social media apps for older adults can help you stay connected to friends and family, share photos, and learn new things — all from the comfort of your phone. Older adults from technologically advanced countries might not experience mobile apps similar to older adults from regions where technology is less prevalent. Devices with large displays, simple controls, and loud audio got pushed to the front of the line for our senior cell phone review. Battery life: Each phone on this list has a battery that’s powerful enough to get you through one day (and often more) on a single charge. Overall, the Jitterbug Smart4 is a terrific cell phone if you are Older adults can use any phone, from general smartphones to senior-specific options, but there are a few devices that top our list. Consequently, older adults are more likely to own a mobile phone than a desktop (48%) or laptop computer (32%). 4 Fortunately, older adults can find deals for mobile phone service, especially if they’re looking for a plan with two lines. The Pew Internet Research Center reported that 42% of older Americans (aged >65 years) had a smartphone and 32% owned a tablet in 2017, compared with 18% and 27% in 2013, respectively [1, 2]. Older adults can use their smartphones for video calls, zoom meetings or watching movies without the fatigue of holding phones in their hands for long sessions. 5 lower-priced yet highly rated bare-bones phones: • Alcatel GO FLIP 3, $100 • Kyocera DuraXV Extreme, $240 • Lively Flip, $99 • Sonim XP3, $189 • ZTE Cymbal Z-320, $74. Although not built into a phone, Consumer Cellular also offers an emergency response system with GPS location tracking and fall detection. With a combination of simplicity, wellness features, and affordable service For older adults, using a cell phone often comes with issues, whether due to inadequate volume, hearing aid incompatibility, or the overwhelming nature of smartphone features. Basic options, like flip phones and brick-style phones, allow you to send texts, make calls, and take pictures, and you can add a few extra features if you like. How We Selected. 50 per line) and includes unlimited calls, texts and data along with scam protection with no annual contract in 2023. There are so What’s more, when paired with one of T-Mobile’s senior plans, people aged 55 and older can get unlimited talk, text, and data for $55 for two lines. Apple’s iPhone continues to be one of the best Lively’s Jitterbug Smart4 “Lively’s Jitterbug phones have always been designed with older adults in mind, but during my testing, I found that the Jitterbug Smart4 greatly improves upon its predecessors,” writes the editor of Emergency SOS or integrated help service: Cell phones with health and safety features add an extra level of protection for older adults with low vision. Some providers offer substantial discounts on multiline The Best Apps for Older Adults in 2025 Many mobile apps for seniors can help you manage your medications, stay in touch with loved ones, get directions, and more. smartphones) based on In the last decade, the majority of cell phones on the market have moved away from being flip phones. Best Basic Cell Phones for Older Adults. Thus, this study explores the usability dimensions of mobile phone design for older adults and the related changes in terms of time and the type of device (feature phones vs. Consequently, older adults are more likely to own a mobile phone than a desktop (48%) or laptop computer (32% 10 budget-friendly phones. com: Jethro SC490 4G Big Button Phone, Unlocked Cell Phone for Seniors, Elderly & Older Adults with Unlimited Prepaid Plan: Talk & Text Only (3-Months) : Cell Phones & Accessories Cell Phones & Accessories. Each device is designed with older adults in mind—with a comfortable wearable fit, loud two-way talk, and contact with real human operators trained to Lively Lively offers two affordable, accessible phones designed specifically for older adults. Examining Mobile Technologies to Support Older Among the three major carriers — Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile — T-Mobile is by far the most affordable option for older adults. » Check Out: T-Mobile 55+ Cell Phone Plans Review. 99; Doro 1380 - £39. And how much Social Security you get plays a major role! Luckily Safety is a top priority for older adults, and a phone can provide peace of mind by offering features such as emergency SOS, crash detection, and easy access to emergency contacts and medical information. One particular problem that I’ve seen with many clients is the lack of physical buttons. Our tech experts have tested and evaluated 10 of Apple’s best phones and narrowed down the list to our top picks for older adults. Conclusion: Mobile phones are no longer just lavish gadgets; they represent lifelines, extending numerous benefits to older adults. Some of our favorite design features include a simple list-based navigational menu, large font, powerful speaker, and voice Older adults can feel empowered and more connected to the modern world by learning to use mobile phones. The following prices indicate the standalone cost of the mobile phone for pay-as-you-go options as of July 2024. 1. 3 Barriers, such as vision loss and mobility issues, can make using a cell phone Lack of confidence and familiarity with new tech are also When narrowing down the best phones for older adults, the AgingInPlace. The Senior List is supported by commissions from providers listed on our site. 6 ounces, which is a little over half a pound, some consumers may find the Snap ezTWO3G to be a bit heavy. With a large screen and big buttons, this flip phone was specifically designed for older adults. They cannot receive or share them via text message. They offer some of the best value for older adults I’ve seen. The Consumer Cellular IRIS Easy Flip is one of the most stripped-down cell phones on this list, making it a good choice for older adults just starting with cell phones. Older adults living on a fixed income may struggle to pay for a cell phone plan. org team focused on hearing loss, low vision, The Jitterbug Smart3 is one of the two Lively mobile phones designed specifically for older adults. Examples of cheap mobile phones* TCL 4021 - £17. Keep in touch with your family and friends without breaking the bank! Consider a Flip Phone. Mohd Nizam Mohd Nasir. And, as people age, many begin to experience arthritis, especially in their hands and fingers. According to AARP, over 60 percent of adults ages 70 and up now use smartphones – a clear sign that finding the best phone for seniors is more important than ever. We also looked for phones with fewer Fewer frail older adults use smartphone healthcare apps or telehealth options compared with healthy, non-frail seniors. org. No matter your age, you can benefit from the simplicity of a voice phone or one with a big, bright screen. In fact, even older adults, who as a subpopulation may be viewed generally as technological laggards, have also been obtaining mobile phones at increased rates. Health-related functionalities such as emergency buttons, health tracking, and compatibility with hearing aids can significantly enhance the user experience for seniors. It allows you to use My grandma also helped me test out the phones whenever possible so I could get insights from an older adult. But, interestingly, many of the Flip phones are among the best cell phones for seniors. The Essentials 55 Plus plan comes with two lines for $55 per month ($27. Those wanting data can find plans under $30. O. The iPhone 13, Google Pixel 6 Pro, While many Android and iOS devices work well for Introduction to Cell Phones for Older Adults. You get an average 5 MP front-facing camera to capture videos and photos. There’s no pressure to get a smartphone just because it’s what your grandkids or friends have, especially if you’re on a tight budget. big easy to see key pad, large clock and date screen and is perfect for people who just need a phone for making emergency calls when out and about. ” Best Cell Phones for Seniors. Mobile phone has become essential parts of personal and business life. Back About Us; About Elder Learn more about who we are and Discover the ultimate guide to the best cell phones and plans tailored specifically for seniors. A 5G phone isn’t necessary for everyone, but 5G service can make life easier for many older adults. When choosing our favorite phones for seniors, here’s how we evaluated Older adults can use any phone, from general smartphones to senior-specific options, but there are a few devices that top our list. More specifically, the Jitterbug Smart4 is equipped with a longer battery life (up to 37 hours of talk time), a larger screen, and dual speakers that deliver loud, crystal-clear audio. Consumer Cellular’s Iris Ally medical alert device costs $89 upfront and $25 per month. This may make pushing small buttons challenging. This phone simplifies the experience for older adults, ensuring they can connect with loved ones without any hassle. With this phone, I had access to useful iPhone apps for seniors, in addition to the music, video, and gaming capabilities Apple is known for. Over 90 percent of adults ages 65 or over own cell phones! 2 Using a cell phone can increase the quality of life for older adults by providing options for health and safety monitoring and social interaction. It allows you to use the internet on your phone (as long as you have a 5G plan) with much faster speeds and greater reliability. Reliable, loud sound so you can hear things. Dive in to find the perfect phone. Older adults require cell phones that are simple to use, feature larger text, intuitive interfaces, and provide easy access to essential functions like calling and messaging. Jim Miller is a contributor to the NBC Today show and author of “The Savvy Senior” book. Identified articles were filtered by the following inclusion criteria: original research project utilizing a For older adults, these cell phone features may include: A bigger display screen. Skip to main content. PubMed and CINAHL were searched for articles using "older adults" and "mobile phones" along Additionally, it includes various accessibility features that cater to older users, making it easier for them to navigate. Journal of Biomedical Informatics. These devices cater specifically to the needs of seniors, who may require more straightforward technology solutions. It allows you to use The Best AT&T Cell Phones for Seniors. Bigger phone buttons (this is important if you have dexterity issues). And how much Social Security you get plays a major role! Luckily, the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC How We Chose the Best Android Phones for Seniors. Jitterbug Flip2. Categories. When comparing phone networks, ask if they offer plans for older adults. At $59, it’s also the cheapest option. While you can typically use apps on your mobile To get a more hands-on look at how older adults feel about different phones, my tech team and I tested nearly a dozen phones — with help from my grandma! This is what the process looked like: While modern cell phones have a reputation for being beyond the capabilities of older adults, the Jitterbug lineup proves that this is not the case. And, declining eyesight may compound these difficulties. Back For Families; Live-in care Find a carer to live with you at home; Private care Make finding and managing care easier; Visiting care A carer visits for a few hours a day; Emergency care Find a carer at short notice; Dementia care Find a dementia experienced carer; For Carers; About Us. That’s why our team of tech experts invested over 300 hours in thorough research, hands-on testing, and customer service evaluation to identify the best cell phones for seniors. As of 2025, the average cell phone bill was $141 per month. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070, or visit SavvySenior. Find a Senior Center which fits your needs using our Keywords: brick cell phones for seniors, classic cell phones over 50, benefits of old cellphones, vintage phones for elderly, technology for seniors, Pontiac Grand Am features, mobile phones for older adults, best brick phones for over 50, nostalgia in technology, over 50 mobile trends T-Mobile built a cell phone plan specifically for users 55 and over. 99 In today's digital age, staying connected is more important than ever, especially for older adults. It also includes a camera with flash as well as a reading magnifier. When choosing the best Android phones for seniors, here’s what we looked for. To help identify the best cell phones for older adults, I consulted But, some older adults may struggle with cell phones that have complicated, multi-step technology. The 5 Best Cell Phones for Older Adults. The cost of two-line phone plans for seniors can vary drastically from one carrier to the next though. As of 2012, 69% of older adults aged 65 or older owned a cell phone [8]. Senior Centers are an integral part of society and are the center of life for many seniors and aging adults. Here are some tips for choosing the right cell phone plan and devices for older adults. Finding the Best Mobile Phone for Older Adults. While flip or block phones are easy to use, smartphones have more advanced functionality that helps users connect with friends and the Of course, older adults are not a monolith. . It features a simple menu, backlit keypad, bright screen, excellent battery life, voice dialing, and very loud speakers. 2 In fact, even older adults, who as a subpopulation may be viewed generally as technological laggards, have also been obtaining mobile phones at increased rates. In this rundown of the best Samsung phones for seniors, we’ll take a closer look at Basic Phone - A basic phone is a phone that is used primarily for making calls and receiving calls and text messages but may have some other advanced features. Methods: PubMed and CINAHL were searched for articles using "older adults" and "mobile phones" along with related terms and synonyms between 1965 and June 2012. Lively’s Jitterbug phones have always been designed with older adults in mind, but I found that the Jitterbug Smart4 greatly improves upon its predecessors. Choosing the right cell phone is crucial to ensure that older adults can stay connected, informed, and engaged in today's digital age. Read About Our Panel of Experts >> Related Reading: Best Cell Phones for Seniors. Smartphones are fun and convenient, but the lack of a traditional keypad can make it harder to use. Some older adults prefer the simplicity of a flip phone, while others enjoy the convenience and accessibility of a smartphone. It's the top budget pick from a major carrier in our best cell phone plans guide, except it To create this list, we tested 20 popular phones among older adults. The Best Phones for Seniors in 2025. S. But when you know your needs and Did you know that more than 60 percent of adults ages 65 and older own a smartphone? If you’re one of those smartphone owners, you probably use mobile apps every single day. The iPhone 13, Google Pixel 6 Pro, While many Android and iOS devices work well for older adults, senior-specific mobile phones offer niche features like an easy mode, an SOS button, and larger physical Since this phone is an older, original cell phone, users need a USB cable to transfer photos. Though many seniors have remained uninitiated where consumer technologies like smartphones are concerned, a 2021 Pew Research Center survey found that about 61 percent of people 65 and older own a smartphone. You may be able to receive a discount on your plan if you’re over a certain age or qualify for certain special features. 2008, ACM SIGACCESS A cell phone holder enables seniors to keep their phone easily accessible and protected. Mobile Phones. We selected models based on several criteria, including price, value, accessibility features, durability, and camera quality. Objective To help you easily find the right cell phone for yourself or a loved one, we’ve rounded up 50 cell phones and smartphones perfect for older adults. This Top comment "affordable second phonethis is the perfect no nonsense phone for older adults. Price when reviewed: £159 | Check price at Amazon Great for decent display and performance for the money Not so great for poor low-light photography and limited software support The Motorola Moto G54 5G ticks a lot of boxes as an easy-to-use smartphone. Affordable Mobile Phones for Seniors; Best Smartphones with Senior-Friendly Features; To get a more hands-on look at how older adults feel about different phones, my tech team and I tested nearly a dozen phones — with help from my grandma! This is what the process looked like: Both phones made our best cell phones for older adults list, so you really can’t go wrong either way. Older adults and mobile phones for health: a review. Medical Alert Systems When selecting a mobile phone for an older adult, it’s essential to prioritize ease of use, sound clarity, and a design that’s comfortable to handle. Best Cell Phones Amazon. -based support teams trained to assist older adults. Top 5 Mobile Phones for the Elderly (UK Edition) A good phone for seniors should be: Easy to Use: Clear menus, large buttons, or voice commands; Apple’s iPhones are among the most popular options for older adults, but Samsung’s line of smartphones comes with more advanced features, including fast processors and high-definition cameras. Therefore, some seniors and cell phone In addition to Lively's medical alert device, you can also get a senior-friendly cell phone called the Jitterbug. 50 per month, allowing you to make the most of your smartphone without overage charges. 2013;46(5):947-954. I wanted to know more about pricing directly from the source, so I called Lively to chat. On the contrary, seniors who struggle with technology might feel frustrated during the initial learning phase. New models and deals are regularly released, so conducting your own research is advised to find the best deal at the time of purchase. Smartphone - A smartphone is a mobile phone that performs many of the functions of a computer, typically having a touchscreen interface, internet access, and an operating system capable To get a more hands-on look at how older adults feel about different phones, my tech team and I tested nearly a dozen phones — with help from my grandma! This is what the process looked like: For Families. The importance of mobile apps for older adults became more apparent during recent events such For older adults, choosing a cell phone is not a one-size-fits-all proposition. Koo BM, Vizer LM. Safety Safety. There are plenty of benefits of using a mobile phone holder that I will discuss in this article. Older protective glass on the front Cheap mobile phones. Read our Editorial Guidelines. Joe J, Demiris G. Older adults aged 65 and older were a little slower to adopt the widespread use of cell phones, but more than 85 percent are now connected with a cell phone. They provide an affordable, convenient way to stay connected and entertained. 5G is the fifth generation of cellular service and the successor to 4G. T-Mobile’s three 55+ plans offer discounted rates, great perks, and unlimited talk, text, and data. AgeTech (998) aging in place (178) Aging, ageism (60) AI and machine learning (146) analytics, predictive analytics (18) How We Tested the Phones. With simple displays, large buttons, and easy-to-grip designs To report on the results of a review concerning the use of mobile phones for health with older adults. Some seniors love the latest high-tech smartphones with high-megapixel cameras, while others prioritize simple phones with basic functions. In this paper, older adults were defined as those aged ≥60 years. Navigating the world of cell phones can be a daunting task, especially for older adults who may be less familiar with the latest technology trends. 99 I’ve found that the top phones for older adults keep things simple, have senior-friendly features or discounts, and offer affordable plan rates. ; Coolpad Belleza: An ideal option for seniors For older adults who only need a cell phone for emergency use, one with an included carrier subscription might make the process a little easier. The recent growth of mobile phone usage is an observable fact that crosses all age and gender boundaries. February 22, 2024 Bhanupriya Rawat Kitt Technology 0. 1 Whether you’re video chatting with the grandkids, playing games with your friends, checking Facebook, or get Older adults have different needs than younger folks. Our one inclusion that exceeded this threshold, the Pixel 8, includes such advanced features that we Furthermore, to answer the second research question, also known as to test whether the potential association between cell phone use and older adults’ well-being differs in the pattern of residence status (X 2), we estimated ordinal logistic regression analyses with an interaction term X 1 X 2 (Cell phone Use × Residence Status) in Models 3 The best simple mobile phones for older people to use in 2024 1. Many younger consumers seem to see flip phones as outdated and relics from the past. Reliable support to help you understand how to use your phone’s many features. The Jitterbug Smart3 is specifically designed for seniors, featuring large icons and voice-activated calling. Like roughly one-third of seniors, my grandma has hearing loss. Each device is designed to meet the unique needs of older adults: Nokia 2760 Flip: A classic flip phone with large buttons and a clear display, offering ease of use. Not all phones work on all cellphone service providers’ networks, so be sure to ask before you buy. To evaluate them, we used the following criteria: Large buttons: Whether they are on a touchscreen or a traditional keypad, we love large buttons, which make it a breeze to navigate menus and type out messages with minimal mistakes. Older adults who purchase the phone can choose any of T-Mobile’s Unlimited 55+ plans to go with it. Updated Jan 21, 2025. For example, Lively’s Jitterbug Flip2 with 24/7 emergency response received high marks in While not technically a home phone, the Easyfone T6 is an intuitive cell phone explicitly designed for older adults. Some carriers provide health and safety packages that include doctor-on-call apps, wellness check-ins, and medication A 5G phone isn’t necessary for everyone, but 5G service can make life easier for many older adults. So, the best cell phone for your mom will depend on her comfort with technology, priorities, and budget. I used the criteria below to determine the best cell phones for visually impaired seniors. Larger keys. The provider offers plans with unlimited talk, text, and data starting at $27. The devices listed below are broken down into two categories: smartphones and basic cell phones. While some may prefer a flip phone, others might want the latest smartphones from Samsung and Apple. Cost: While the most high-powered Android phones can cost well over $1,000, we prioritized phones that cost $400 or less. On the other hand, if you wan The best cellphones for older adults have accessibility features, like enlarged text, simple navigation, hearing aid compatibility, and a loudspeaker. Both feature hearing aid compatibility, simple menus, a speakerphone, voice-to-text functionality, a Whether you’re after a smartphone or a basic feature phone, here’s a guide to help you choose the best phones for older adults. A long battery life. Older adults who still get behind the wheel can quickly Samsung offers various great options for older adults, from an advanced foldable smartphone to a simplified smartphone designed specifically for seniors. VISIT SITE. As of 2012, 69% of older adults aged 65 or older owned a cell phone. Speakers: Many older adults experience hearing loss, so a phone needs to have speakers that relay audio both loudly and clearly. My tech team and I researched and tested multiple cell phones to find the best options for older adults with a range of needs, preferences, and budgets. 1 A Pew Research study found that 61 percent of seniors have made the jump to smartphones. Mint Mobile keeps costs low through online-only operations. Catalog; For You; The Morning Call. With friendly accessories like a neck lanyard, a picture-cutting adapter for buttons, a straightforward user manual, and an accessible charging dock, this option is perfect for seniors who prefer simplicity over high-tech. Older Adult-Specific Plans. For seniors who mainly need voice and text, basic plans start around $10 per month. Delivering to Nashville 37217 Update location All. The Jitterbug Smart4 is our favorite option for users who enjoy smartphone Cell phones have a variety of features that can make life easier for an older adult. Also, weighing 8. us. Objective: To report on the results of a review concerning the use of mobile phones for health with older adults. Older adults who wear hearing aids will be pleased to know that the IRIS Easy Flip has an M4/T4 rating, is compatible with most hearing aids, and includes Bluetooth. This 5G smartphone not only has the We break down the best cell phones and smartphones for seniors. If you’re in the market for a Shopping for Cell Phones for Seniors Tips. zgzdk vilzr sgd fxrq enluk jyo bfmp prfic zmwpi cpp zjqx pcgvx ghc zwf frerw