Smartphone ownership is now standard. But it's easy to forget that it wasn't long ago we were punching in numbers onto keypads. The transition to touchscreen smartphones has been swift, and keeping pace with new developments can be a tall ask. Let alone for seniors, who may not require all the myriad features packed into modern phones. However, the good news is that there are plenty of smartphone options for seniors seeking to keep it simple.
First of all, when shopping for a new smartphone, it pays to think about what features you need. This helps narrow down your options. Importantly, it will also help you figure out an appropriate budget. Especially these days, when even a basic smartphone shares many of the same features as a high-end one. The differences tend to lie in the quality and operational speed of those features.
It isn't a matter of whether you need a camera or not, but how sharp and clear you want the camera to be.
In the following guide, we look at how to get started, phone features it's worthwhile considering, plus we run through some budget, mid-range and premium smartphone offerings.
Smartphones for seniors: where to start?
While some seniors might not be particularly tech-savvy, it can be useful for them to pick up some smartphone basics. Smartphones can not only help people keep in touch with loved ones, but can also provide benefits like news updates and navigation.
With this in mind, if you feel a little daunted by technology, it could be worthwhile enrolling in a course to improve your digital literacy. Services such as SeniorNet, which runs at locations around the country, are designed to help seniors learn how to use and enjoy different types of technologies.
However, seniors who aren't tech-savvy will likely just want a smartphone capable of performing basic functions: think traditional phone calls and text messaging.
Smartphone features: what should seniors look for?
In addition to core smartphone features – from the processor, to the display technology and camera set-up – there are a number of additional features that come in handy for seniors. It's worthwhile doing some research around these features, and how easy they are to change and adjust on the particular model you are considering.
Senior-specific features to keep in mind include:
- Screen size – should be a particular focus if deteriorating vision is a consideration. A larger screen, with larger icons and text, will both assist visibility and enable easier operation. The trend in recent years has been towards increasingly larger displays measuring in at six inches and over
- Volume – loud and clear audio quality comes in handy if hearing is an issue. It may also be worthwhile pairing a smartphone with headphones. But here you have to keep in mind that some smartphones have done away with the headphone jack, opting for Bluetooth pairing
- Ergonomics – consider how you will be holding a smartphone, and how posture can be improved to prevent discomfort and pain (consulting with experts, if required)
- Stylus – smartphones paired with a stylus (a pen-like instrument), which can be used to navigate touchscreens, can enable greater precision and easier operation. There is a range of third-party options available
- Accessibility features – audio and vision support features can assist with various smartphone operations. Both Android and iOS smartphones come with a variety of features (such as larger text, brighter colours and magnification) designed to make operation easier
- Digital assistant – a voice-activated digital assistant can allow for easier operation. For instance, if visibility is an issue, it may be easier to use voice commands to operate the phone
- Biometrics – fingerprint or facial authentication can provide for quick-and-easy login
- Battery life – longer battery life means longer time between charges, leading to less charging concerns for more forgetful users
- Durability – a hardy smartphone will be able to go the distance (it may be worthwhile using a case and screen protector)
