It seems like a fairly simple question, but there are a few things that we should look at first. There are various difficulties that have to be overcome when buying cell phone for seniors.
One of the first things that we have to contemplate is the screen. Is the screen big enough? Is it bright enough? If you’ve got normal 20/20 vision, most screens will be fine, but if you’re someone with ailing eyesight, a “normal” screen now means icons. Don’t get me wrong, icons are fine and dandy but for a senior they’re just not up to the job. I think that most seniors would agree that nice big, clear numbers are what they would prefer to see. The bigger the numbers – the easier to see!
Talking of big, size is also important when it comes to buttons. Imagine that you had arthritis, or even just sore, stiff hands. How do you think you would fare with a fiddly touch-screen that relies on pressure and accuracy to get you to where you want to go? I wouldn’t fancy my chances. When it comes to ease of use we want buttons, big buttons at that. Some older cell phones and even some newer ones still have buttons but they are usually small and fiddly and not fit for purpose. Cell phones for seniors should have big, clear buttons that are easy to see and use.
I’ve noticed recently that there are now manufactures that are making cell phones that are compatible with certain hearing aids. This is great news for some seniors that may have hearing difficulties. Some phones in the seniors range also come with enhanced speakers. This is something that you should bear in mind when it comes to buying.
The next thing that we need to look at is functionality. We don’t need all the latest gizmos and apps. We want a cell phone that will suit the purpose. We want to be able to receive calls, make calls and maybe send a text messages, if we so please. Remember, functionality not fancy ringtones.
What about the size of the actual phone? Again we need to think big. It doesn’t have to be the size of some old brick that you found lying around your back yard. A decent size cell phone for seniors should be big enough to fit in the hand comfortably, it’s that simple. If the cell phone is too small it may be too difficult to actually hold, especially with older hands.
With some of the newer cell phones for seniors there is a special function that is not found on conventional phones. This “special” function is an emergency button, usually on the back of the phone, which many may find attractive. The emergency number is pre-programmed into the phone and if an accident occurred the button could be pushed and would immediately dial your nominated number, be it a neighbour, friend or relative. In some cases this really could be a life saver.
All in all there are various things that you should think about when buying a cell phone for seniors. Always keep in mind the person that you are buying for and remember their needs, don’t just buy a cell because it is cheap or looks good. It should always be about functionality first.