The Best Phone for Senior Citizens & Ultimate Guide

As seniors get older, many of them may need a phone that’s easier to use. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best phones for seniors. Some of these phones have features that make them easier to use, such as larger buttons. Others have features that are specifically designed for seniors, such as assisted listening and voice recognition software. Ultimately, the best phone for a senior citizen will depend on their individual needs and preferences.

Tips to choose best phone for senior citizens

When it comes to choosing the best phone for senior citizens, there are a few things to keep in mind. First and foremost, it is important to consider the user’s age and mobility. Some seniors may not be as mobile as they used to be and may need a phone that can be easily accessed from a sitting or reclining position.

Additionally, some seniors may have trouble seeing small text or icons on screens, so phones with larger fonts and easier-to-read screens are ideal.Another factor to consider is whether the senior citizen needs a phone for personal use or for communicating with family members and friends. Phones designed strictly for personal use usually have fewer features than those designed for communication purposes, but they’re generally simpler to use.

List of best phone for senior citizens

Consumer Cellular GrandPad

Consumer cellular grandpads are a recent development in the cellular industry. They are large, famous, and allow for a lot of features not available on other mobile devices.

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Jitterbug Smart3

An excellent phone by lovely, which gives great performance than ever.

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Samsung Galaxy A12

Samsung is one of the world’s leading technology companies. It creates devices that allow people to connect with each other and share information.

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Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 3

Samsungcreates devices that help people learn new things. Samsung products are popular because they are reliable and easy to use.

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Consumer Cellular Link II

These devices are perfect for people who need a lot of phone features but don’t want to pay for a full cell phone plan.

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iPhone SE (3rd Gen)

The iPhone SE is Apple’s most affordable iPhone ever, and it’s a great option if you don’t need the features or performance of the newer models.

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Verizon Kyocera DuraXV Extreme

The Verizon Kyocera DuraXV Extreme is a state-of-the-art smartphone that offers users the most advanced features and capabilities.

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Best phone for senior citizens

For seniors, there are many factors to consider when choosing a smartphone. For starters, phone selection should reflect the user’s needs and preferences. Secondly, users must decide whether they want a phone with advanced features or a simplified interface. Thirdly, seniors may want a phone that has access to special apps or services that are not available on other devices. Last but not least, seniors should decide whether they want a big-screened device or something more compact.

Consumer Cellular GrandPad

Features:

• Touchscreen tablet with HD display
• 5MP front and back cameras
• 4G LTE connection; no Wi-Fi required
• Make calls, send texts, and video chat
• Companion mobile app for family and caregivers
• Stylus included
• Battery lasts 1-3 days with wireless charging
• Built-in mobile apps
• Large font and buttons

This year’s list included the Consumer Cellular GrandPad because it is a senior-friendly tablet with all the features needed to keep older adults connected and entertained.The GrandPad can be used to make calls, send texts, video chat, take pictures, play games, and access mobile apps despite not being a typical cell phone.Seniors who prefer a large screen, spend a lot of time at home, or avoid technology will appreciate this choice.You won’t have to worry about connecting to Wi-Fi because the tablet uses Consumer Cellular’s 4G LTE connection.

The GrandPad was in the top five on our list of the easiest cell phones for seniors to use.The GrandPad’s buttons are large and easy to see, and the large screen makes it easy to hold.It also comes with a companion mobile app that lets family members add, customize, or restrict features and contacts to keep their loved ones safe and simplify the user experience.Through the mobile app, family members can also send messages, video chat, and upload photos to the GrandPad.Overall, the GrandPad gives people who don’t want a traditional cell phone a novel way to stay connected.

Things To Consider:

We found Consumer Cellular’s phones and packages to be a top choice for seniors due to their unique features, varied options, and adaptable plans.The GrandPad is not as portable as the other phones on our list because it is so much larger than a cell phone.The GrandPad might not be the best choice for you if you spend a lot of time moving around or simply do not want a large device.

However, it is a good choice if you spend a lot of time at home and want a larger screen that is easy to hold and use for reading, video chatting, and gaming.Additionally, keep in mind that the GrandPad tablet costs more than many of the phones on our list.If that suits your budget better, you can pay off your device in manageable monthly installments.

Jitterbug Smart3

Features:

• List-style menu
• 6.2-inch touchscreen
• Built-in mobile apps
• 13MP built-in camera
• Mobile internet access
• GPS navigation
• Video chatting
• Medical alert capabilities
• Voice typing
• Runs on Verizon network

The Jitterbug Smart3 from Lively, which retails for $149.99, strikes a good balance between the most recent smartphone features and ease of use, making it our top pick for seniors. The Jitterbug Smart3 keeps things simple, whereas some smartphones overcomplicate things for older adults, making it feel like you have to solve a puzzle to find what you need.

You’ll be able to find what you need with just a few taps thanks to the large touchscreen, long battery life, and straightforward list-style menu.In addition, the Jitterbug Smart3 retains all of the features you expect from a smartphone, including a built-in camera, video chatting, GPS navigation, and mobile apps.We evaluated the call quality and ease of setup in our Lively phone review.Impressive were the outcomes!

Additionally, this Lively phone works with hearing aids.For those who want the additional layer of protection that comes with a medical alert device, it has built-in medical alert capabilities.If you want them, you can add them for a monthly fee. These features include 24/7 monitoring, urgent care consultations, health updates for caregivers and family members, and more.

Things to Consider:

While the senior plan on Lively starts at $14.99, it’s important to know that you’ll have to pay an activation fee and a product fee upfront if you’re on a tight budget.Additionally, their data, talk, and text plans typically have higher prices.However, when compared to other smartphones on the market, the Jitterbug Smart3 is very affordable, and new customers frequently receive substantial discounts on initial fees.

You will also receive a discount on talk, text, and data plans if you sign up for one of Lively’s add-on health and safety packages.You can return your device to Lively for a full refund with a $10 restocking fee after a 30-day trial period.

Samsung Galaxy A12

Features:

• 34 hours talk time; 16-day standby battery life
• Fast-charging option
• Fingerprint sensor
• 6.5-inch HD display
• Up to 1 TB in memory
• 16MP triple camera
• Built-in mobile apps

The T-Mobile Galaxy A12’s battery life is extremely long.Seniors already have a lot to keep track of, whether it’s taking their medications every day, going to doctor’s appointments, meeting book clubs, or planning family get-togethers.Remembering to charge your phone on a regular basis is the last thing you should add to that list.When you are not actively using your phone, you will have a full 34 hours of talk time or 16 days of standby time with the Galaxy A12.

Your phone’s battery will last at least a full day, if not longer, depending on how much you use it and what you do with it.When you’re out and about and need to make an important call, you won’t have to worry about a dead battery.You won’t have to sit around waiting for hours for the device to fully charge because it also has fast charging capabilities.

This phone has many other great features, not the least of which is its long battery life.The Galaxy A12 has a back camera with 16MP and multiple lenses, so all of your vacation and family photos will be clear.It has a fingerprint sensor, so you can use your own fingerprint to unlock your phone.This feature also improves the security of your phone so that no one else can access it, so you won’t ever have to worry about remembering your password.

Shopping for a phone that is affordable and suitable for seniors is made simple by the prices offered by T-Mobile.The Samsung Galaxy A12 is one of the most affordable high-tech smartphones currently available, costing just $180, or $7.50 per month, over the course of 24 months.Additionally, when signing up for T-Mobile, some new customers may be eligible for benefits such as a free smartphone, such as the Galaxy A12!

Things to Consider:

Compared to the Galaxy A12, some Galaxy models have slightly longer battery life;Nevertheless, this model gives you the most value for your money.The device costs just $180, which is about $300-$400 less than other Galaxy models.The few extra hours of talk time that come with a more expensive model really aren’t worth several hundred dollars if battery life is your primary concern.

Additionally, the Galaxy A12 has one of the longest standby battery lives of any model, making it an excellent choice if you only require a phone for quick calls or emergency situations. You won’t have to worry about it dying because you can leave it on when you’re not using it.

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 3

Features:

• 6.7-inch foldable design
• 12MP rear camera; 4MP and 10MP front cameras
• Water-resistant
• Flex mode for hands-free experience
• Fast charging
• 128 GB of storage

The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 3 5G gives you the best of both worlds if you’re having trouble choosing between a smartphone and a flip phone!It appears to be a smartphone at first glance, but it actually folds shut like a flip phone.We love this feature because it makes it easier to hold and fits in a pocket or purse without damaging the touchscreen.Even though this advanced phone costs $799, it is still a great choice for seniors who want a foldable phone with a bright screen and water-resistant features.

With the grandkids, you can easily take hands-free pictures and make video calls.The phone has a 10MP front camera and a powerful 12MP rear camera.In addition, the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 3 5G runs on 5G, giving you faster speeds and the ability to stream videos, open multiple window tabs, and more.

Overall, this phone really has a lot of power.You can pair the phone with a low-cost prepaid phone plan if you buy it from Mint Mobile.Keep an eye out for seasonal sales and discounts on this phone from Mint Mobile!

Things to Consider:

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 3 5G is significantly more expensive than other phones currently available. It costs $799.However, this phone is a great option if you want a foldable phone that is advanced, durable, and has a bright screen.Affirm also offers financing options for $34 per month, and purchasing a 12-month plan will save you $50.

Consumer Cellular Link II

Features:

• Built-in 2MP camera
• Large buttons
• Bluetooth connectivity
• Bright display screen
• Hearing aid-compatible
• Second, external display screen
• Adjustable volume

Our list included Consumer Cellular’s Link II due to its straightforward design and affordable price.This phone has a built-in camera, large keys, and all of the most essential basic features of a cell phone.The cheapest senior-friendly phone on our list is the Link II flip phone from Consumer Cellular, which costs just $59 up front.In addition, the talk and text plan offered by Consumer Cellular costs only $15 per month, which is very affordable for the sector.

The Link II is a good option that won’t break the bank if you just want to call and text your friends and family.Even a monthly payment plan can be set up for as little as $2 per month!To learn how to build the best phone plan and avoid hidden fees, visit our Consumer Cellular review.

Things to Consider:

The solution is not the phone for you if you want more advanced features or internet and data connectivity.However, if cost is your primary concern and you only require a basic cell phone, this is one of the cheapest options available.You’ll still be able to do everything you need to, like take pictures, call, and text.

iPhone SE (3rd Gen)

Features:

• 4.7-inch Retina HD touchscreen
• 12MP wide camera and 7MP front camera
• Touch ID
• Hearing aid-compatible
• Up to 256 GB of storage
• Access to Apple Store and thousands of mobile apps
• FaceTime video calling
• iMessage between iPhones
• 4K video quality
• Water- and dust-resistant

The iPhone SE from T-Mobile gives seniors who want a smartphone with all the latest and greatest features that extra “umph.”The iPhone SE comes equipped with all of the cutting-edge features you’re looking for, such as a large touch screen with retina HD and high-quality 12MP and 7MP cameras.FaceTime with friends and family, watch videos in 4K, store up to 256 GB of data, photos, and other data, and more are all available.If you’re worried about security, the iPhone has Touch ID, which uses your unique fingerprint to unlock the device, and all of its data is encrypted.

The iPhone SE is also compatible with hearing aids, has a bright screen, is wide, and is easy to hold. These are all great features for older hands, eyes, and ears.

Positive aspects:Do you have vision loss?On the iPhone, several text and facial recognition applications were tested by our research team. While T-Mobile is our recommendation, the iPhone SE is available from a number of carriers.So that you can get the best deal possible, they always give new customers who buy an iPhone discounts and additional benefits.In addition, T-Mobile provides three distinct senior plans with substantial data, talk, and texting plan discounts.

These plans are open to anyone 55 or older, whereas many senior plans offered by other companies only cover people 65 or older.
Don’t worry if T-Mobile doesn’t offer good service in your area but you want an iPhone.Unlocked iPhones are available for purchase from Apple, allowing you to use them with a different cellular provider that has good coverage in your area.

Things to Consider:

One of our list’s most expensive phones, the iPhone SE starts at $429.99.However, it is a good option if you’ve been eyeing an Apple phone because it is one of the most affordable iPhone models.In addition, the iPhone provides a number of cutting-edge features that other phones do not, so if you care more about technology than price, you will be set.

Also, keep in mind that this is our pick for the most advanced smartphone, so it won’t be great for seniors who don’t like technology or who are easily overwhelmed by extra features.Although we are aware that this high-tech phone is not for everyone, we are also aware that most older adults can learn to use an iPhone with a little perseverance, patience, and possibly the assistance of a grandchild.

Verizon Kyocera DuraXV Extreme

Features:

• M4/T4 hearing aid compatibility
• 100dB+ dual speakers
• Noise cancellation
• Bluetooth compatible
• Converts to a mobile Wi-Fi hotspot for up to 10 devices
• Dust- and water-resistant
• Durable design
• 5MP camera
• Flip phone design
• Text-to-speech feature

The Kyocera DuraXV Extreme from Verizon has the highest level of M4/T4 hearing aid compatibility of any phone, making it our top pick for seniors with hearing loss.Hearing loss affects one in three seniors over the age of 654, and this percentage continues to rise as people get older.Find a cell phone with loud, high-quality sound that is compatible with hearing aids if you have hearing loss.

Due to its T4 telecoil rating, the Kyocera is even suitable for people with severe hearing loss.Additionally, the phone supports Bluetooth technology, making it compatible with Bluetooth medical alert and hearing aid devices.The phone’s 100dB+ dual speakers with noise cancellation will provide loud and clear sound if you have minimal hearing loss and do not require hearing aids yet.

A Pro Tip:For a comprehensive look at Verizon’s cell phone plans for adults over 55, visit our Verizon senior plan review.

Verizon’s Kyocera DuraXV Extreme offers all of the essential flip phone features, including texting, calls, internet access, and a 5MP camera, in addition to its top-notch features for people with hearing loss.It is also great for people who have trouble gripping their devices or who use them frequently because it is extremely durable and resistant to drops, water, dust, extreme temperatures, and other hazards.It is easy to connect your new phone to the Verizon network.Verizon’s competitive pricing and reliable network coverage were discovered by our researchers.

Things to Consider:

The Kyocera DuraXV Extreme is a fairly pricey flip phone, costing $240.However, if you suffer from hearing loss, its powerful speaker and compatibility with M4/T4 hearing aids may be worth the price.If you don’t want to pay the whole amount at once, you can also pay for your phone in monthly installments.Also, keep in mind that this is a basic phone, so its features are less extensive than those of other smartphones.If you only care about the fundamentals, it’s a good option because you’ll still be able to send texts, call friends and family, and take photos.

How We Decided Which Cell Phones Are Best for Seniors

Over 30 metrics, including price, senior-friendly features, battery life, durability, sound quality, appearance, ease of use, and provider perks, were used to rank each phone on our list.Our evaluation’s three most significant metrics were as follows:

Features geared toward seniors: All of the phones that made the cut have features that cater to the unique requirements and lifestyles of seniors.Big buttons or icons, bright screens, loud and adjustable speakers, hearing aid compatibility, and an easy-to-grip design are among the features that vary from phone to phone.

No contracts for the long term: The days of cell phone plans that locked you in for years are over.You can cancel your service at any time because all of the cell phone models and carriers on our list offer month-to-month plans.

Cost versus quality: We are aware that every budget is unique.Even though some of the cell phones on our list cost more than others, we only included phones whose quality we believe is comparable to or better than the price.We made sure to include low-cost smartphones as well as more expensive high-tech options on our list so that you can find a phone that meets both your needs and your budget.

We created this year’s best cell phone list based on the aforementioned criteria, as well as our research, testing, and rankings, to assist you in selecting the best cell phone for seniors.

Why is a cell phone necessary for seniors?

Older adults benefit greatly from having a dependable cell phone. They let seniors keep in touch with friends and family, get help in an emergency, have some fun, take pictures of special moments, and do a lot more.

A person’s health and well-being can also be benefited by using a cell phone.It is possible for older adults to spend more time by themselves, which can result in cognitive decline, feelings of isolation, and depression2. Cell phones are a great way for seniors to stay social no matter where they are.The majority of older adults now own a cell phone, and more than 60% of them also own a smartphone3.

When you think about a cell phone or smartphone, your first thought might be that they are either too complicated or too expensive.However, a growing number of cell phone service providers are developing affordable, senior-friendly phones that make it possible for people over the age of 65 to take advantage of all the benefits of a phone without becoming confused or frustrated.Now, let’s get into the specifics of the best cell phones for seniors this year.

FAQ

What aspects are most essential to me?

Because there are so many options for features on senior cell phones, it’s important to know what you want before you buy one.Do you want a phone with a touchscreen, medical alert capabilities, and a high-quality camera?Alternately, you might be looking for a flip phone that can connect to the internet and works with hearing aids.Make a list of everything you want before beginning your search to narrow down your options.

Do I need a smartphone or a basic phone?

The answer to this question will depend on your comfort level with advanced technology and features.A simple phone will be your best option if you are concerned that a cell phone will be too complicated or will be too confusing.You can send texts, make calls, and take pictures with basic options like flip phones and slide phones, and you can add a few more features if you want.If you’re on a tight budget, there’s no pressure to buy a smartphone just because your friends or grandkids already have one.

On the other hand, a smartphone is what you need if you want a phone with all of the latest features, such as mobile apps, video chatting, internet access, GPS tracking, and a touchscree

Do I require capabilities for a medical alert?

You’ll need to decide if you just want a phone that’s good for seniors and has basic features like calling, texting, and internet access, or one with medical alert features.Fall detection, an emergency help button, monitoring round-the-clock, location tracking, and other health and safety enhancements are examples of these features.

There is no need to buy a phone that has these features or charges for monthly monitoring if you want a phone that is simple to use and you do not care about medical alert capabilities.However, you might want a phone with these features if you want the additional security that a medical alert device provides

Do I want a data-capable phone?

While more advanced options let you add a data plan and internet access for a monthly fee, the more basic cell phones only support texting and calling.You will need to look for a phone with data if you want to watch shows, use social media and other mobile apps, or surf the web on your phone.On the other hand, you don’t need to pay for a data plan that you won’t use if you just use basic features like texting and calling.

How much should I budget?

You will need to factor in any upfront device costs and the monthly cost of a talk, text, or data plan when choosing a cell phone.Also, find out if the service provider charges extra for things like shipping or activation.If you want a smartphone with all the latest features but only have $50 to spend, you should think twice.

Depending on the service provider and features, basic flip phones cost about $30 to around $100.The price of a basic smartphone can range anywhere from $150 to $1,000 for more advanced options like the most recent iPhone.If paying off your phone in monthly installments works better for your budget, many service providers offer this option.

Conclusion

The best phone for seniors is one that is easy to use and has features that are important to them. If you are looking for a phone that can help you keep in touch with friends and family, a senior-friendly phone may be the right choice for you.