Cell Phones For Seniors

Other phones that may be good for senior citizens include phones that are easy to operate. In this article, we’ll examine some of those models and see why the particular models listed are generally a good fit for most senior citizens.

Doro PhoneEasy

The Doro Phone is regarded as one of the best cell phones for seniors because it was actually designed to meet the unique needs of many senior citizens.  The Doro PhoneEasy 345 and 410 both have raised buttons.  These phones feature a ringer that is not only loud, but vibrating as well, and they also work with some of the more advanced hearing aids.  The 410 is a flip phone that comes in black or white, and the 345 is a basic bar phone.  While there may be more functions than some seniors may want, there is an option to hide them so as to avoid confusion or just plain aggravation.  Visit the following link for more information on the Doro PhoneEasy models.  http://www.gizmag.com/doro-seniors-cell-phone/13145.

ClarityLife C900™

The feature that makes this phone a hit with seniors is that it is an amplified phone, twice as loud as an ordinary cell phone, which is perfect for those who may need a little boost to hear conversations clearly.  The phone also features large buttons, which makes it easy to dial.  It also has a built in flashlight and a large screen with extra large text. The ClarityLife C900™ features a slider design, and when closed is about the size of a bar of soap, though it’s only one inch thick.  This phone comes as an unlocked phone, ready to accept your existing SIM card, or you can go to AT&T, T-Mobile, or any other GSM wireless provider to activate. To learn more about this phone, visit the following link:  http://shop.clarityproducts.com/products/listing/item3289.asp.

Nokia 6131NFC For Use With T-Mobile

This phone really has more features than most seniors will want, but it does have some fantastic features for senior citizens, so it may be one of the best cell phones for seniors.  The phone features voice dialing and also comes with a voice recorder, which can assist seniors with short items like a grocery list or with making a note to themselves about where they park the car in a large parking lot. It is also hearing aid compatible and will also work with TTY/TDD devices.  The buttons are distinctly separate, so dialing is easy and there is also a speaker phone.

While not all seniors want or need a cell phone with all the bells and whistles, some of them would like a little extra punch and this phone delivers that as well.  The Nokia 6131 also features a 1.3 megapixel camera, and it supports email and text messaging.  It also functions as a music player and comes equipped with an FM radio. The flip phone also comes with an alarm clock and two games.  Learn more about the Nokia 6131 at the following link:  http://www.nokiausa.com/find-products/phones/nokia-6131-nfc.

Samsung M240 (Sprint)

For those who just want an inexpensive, basic cell phone for seniors, this may be the right one. The Samsung M240 is a silver and black flip phone that sells for just $19.99 with service and offers just the basic features.  It does have a small display, though, so this could be an issue for seniors with poor vision.  You can see a video review as well as read a more comprehensive review from CNET at the following link:  http://reviews.cnet.com/cell-phones/samsung-m240-sprint/4505-6454_7-33770735.html.

Jitterbug Phones

The Jitterbug phones were designed with senior citizens in mind.  There are no bells and whistles on these phones; instead, they offer a simple, uncomplicated user experience, which is just what senior citizens need.  The Jitterbug phones feature simple to use yes and no menus, operator assistance, and large buttons and displays.  The operator will even help add contacts to the address book, and there is voice dial.

Jitterbug phones are the best cell phones for seniors who only want to use a cell phone once in a while or in an emergency. Plans start at only $14.99; however, for seniors who want or need to use the phone more often, there are several different plans to choose from. You can change your plan anytime without a penalty, and best of all, there are no contracts with Jitterbug.  All plans also include long distance calling with no roaming charges.  To learn more about Jitterbug phones, visit http://www.jitterbug.com. 

Conclusion

Overall, the best cell phones for seniors are those that are simple to use with large displays and large buttons.  Depending on how much the senior in your life wishes to use the phone, you may want to consider prepaid options or options that offer service with no contractual obligations, such as Jitterbug.  For seniors that have hearing issues, look for cell phones that have hearing aid capabilities, flashing visuals upon ringing, or amplified sound.  In addition, if your senior uses a TDD/TYY, look for cell phones that are compatible with this device.

While you can find free cell phones for seniors, the drawback here is that they often come with a contractual commitment, which is often for two years. Before you accept a deal that includes a free cell phone, look closely at the fine print and make sure you are aware of all the details.  Many seniors just want a cell phone in case of emergency or when they are away from home; other senior citizens use cell phones much more often.  At any rate, look for specific cell phone plans for seniors, especially for those senior citizens who won’t be using their phone very often, as you can find some really great deals, especially through those companies that sell wireless phones that are designed especially for senior citizens.