There’s a common misconception that senior citizens are technologically inept. Although some elderly folk struggle to keep pace with the whirr of tech innovations, those reaching peak golden years have gradually begun to embrace Digital Age norms. Due to increased cell usage among elderly citizens, many mobile phone companies have adapted, announcing senior-friendly features and releasing devices to bridge the gap.
From pulling seniors out of their social slumps to monitoring chronic conditions to keeping emergency contacts at ready access, cell phones yield hoards of benefits for elderly citizens. With cell phone companies factoring elderly users’ needs into the equation, older folks are beginning to embrace mobile devices in their day-to-day lives, as most senior-friendly designs feature essential features, like digital health monitors and medication reminders.
However, introducing seniors to cell phones isn’t always smooth sailing. Seniors often feel nervous about safety, struggle to see small text, and feel deterred by expensive, complicated models. That said, if you’re picking out a phone for a senior adult, it’s essential to look for user-friendly features to simplify the process.
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Top-rated senior-friendly cell phone models
Before generating a list of must-have cell features, do a little preliminary research to find the most reliable senior-friendly phone models. By comparing and contrasting models, you can eliminate unnecessarily complicated models outside of your price range. Top-rated models include the Lively Direct, Jitterbug Flip, and Moto G7 play, all equipped with easy-to-use and reliable functions.
Once you’ve narrowed down the list, look for the following features to find the perfect fit for your elderly loved one’s unique needs.
Ease of use
Ditch the bells and whistles and opt for a phone with easily accessible features to avoid frustration and wasted money. Senior adults are reluctant to use new technology for numerous reasons, like failing eyesight, arthritic joints, and hearing loss. That’s why simple menus, easy-to-press buttons, and headphone capability fall in the essential features category.
Emergency buttons
Cellular devices made explicitly for seniors often include built-in emergency buttons, doubling as a life alert. Medical services are essential for seniors losing mobility in case of falls or accidents. With the press of a button, they’ll ping emergency personnel, sending medics straight to their door for medical assistance. In addition, you can set yourself as a point of contact, allowing emergency staff to keep you in the loop every step of the way.
Health monitoring
If your senior loved one just as tech-savvy as your teenager, consider purchasing a newer model phone equipped with games, social media apps, and detailed health monitoring features. Certain phones and apps can keep track of health data — logging heart rate, weight, notes from doctor’s appointments, other essential health information. Day-to-day monitoring allows for real-time tracking, and apps keep medical information and documentation organized for easy access.
Camera
Another feature your senior loved one will cherish is a good quality camera. While capturing photos isn’t a necessity for some seniors, many elderly folk love looking back on snapshots and having the ability to share family pictures online.
Affordability
Once you’ve found a phone that’s easy to use and includes emergency features, health monitoring capabilities, and an easy-to-use camera, you just have one more item on your list to consider: cost. Research shows that 23% of older couples and 50% of older adults who live alone don’t have the financial resources to cover their basic financial needs. Help your loved ones by purchasing a phone for them or researching inexpensive models to avoid financial hiccups.
Wrapping up
Although your senior loved one may be opposed initially, equipping them with an elder-friendly mobile device can improve their day-to-day functions. With numerous senior-friendly models on the market featuring health monitoring apps, accessibility features, and emergency buttons, there’s a perfect device for your loved one.
