What’s the best phone for seniors?

Technology has become our primary way to keep in touch with those we love. As a vital and active senior, you want to make sure you can easily talk with those you love. However, not all handsets are well-designed for older people. As you age, you want a phone that balances simplicity, functionality, and user-friendly features.

We like the Jitterbug Smart3, Samsung Galaxy A02s, Snapfon ezFlip 4G, Google Pixel 4a, and Consumer Cellular GrandPad as stand-out options for seniors. However, there are plenty more like them out there! Watch out for phone models that cater to the pain points of seniors, with a good balance of functionality and user-friendliness.

What makes a great phone for seniors?

Let’s start by taking a good look at the features that make a phone fantastic for older users.

For many seniors, the priority should be ease of use and your comfort with the handset. Unless you have a strong interest in the tech field, the latest smartphone technology and features may be a bit overwhelming to elderly users.

Look out for large, readable fonts, simplified screens and navigation, clear audio, and a responsive touchscreen made for larger fingers. This will help you compensate for potential vision and hearing impairments (PDF) that are common among seniors. It will also help minimize your learning curve and make navigation effortless.

Did you know that there are handsets that are compatible with hearing aids? Even if you don’t need a full hearing boost, watch out for phones with adjustable volume settings and speakerphone options so you can enjoy clear, crisp audio without having to strain.

A large and vibrant display is essential for seniors with visual impairments or those who prefer a more accessible interface. Phones with larger screens make it easier to read text messages, view contacts, and navigate through applications. Look for adjustable font sizes and high-contrast themes for the best possible readability.

Chances are you will find most models with a touchscreen. However, you might prefer physical buttons, and there are still handsets out there with them. Pay attention to how ‘tactile’ they are (how they feel to use), and how well-spaced they are.

Lastly, your phone is a fantastic safety lifeline, especially as you age. Look out for phones with easily accessible emergency features. Some phones designed especially for seniors may include dedicated emergency buttons! These can be preset to connect to the emergency services or contacts you choose ahead of time for a one-click connection. Carrying your phone with you regularly is a great way to make sure you can call for help should you fall and not be able to get back up.

Best phones for seniors

Now you know more about what a great phone for seniors should do, let’s take a look at some market-leading options. There are plenty of options, across a wide range of budgets, so don’t be shy to test a few out and find the right match for you!

Jitterbug Smart3

The Jitterbug Smart3 is specifically designed for seniors, with a simplified interface, large icons, and an easy-to-navigate menu. It has a 5.5-inch touchscreen display, and a 13MP rear camera, and comes with 5Star Urgent Response, providing you with immediate assistance in emergencies.