What to know while buying a smartphone for seniors
The requirement of every senior person is varying, but there are certain common features that most seniors would want in their smartphones. Here are some of those features to consider:
Display
A good display does not just mean the size of the screen. The resolution count matters even more than the size. While with time, most smartphones have got bigger screens, not all have worked upon good quality higher resolution screens. It should not be too large where you need to operate it with two hands, reducing accessibility for seniors and it also should not be too small where the screen contents are hard to read, stressing the eyes of elders.
Durability
Durability is an important factor! Seniors often prefer more durable products that can sustain for a longer time, even when there is advancement in the technology of smartphones, as they find it difficult to keep up with ever-changing technology. Devices with strong body quality should be preferred so it does not break in case they drop them.
Budget
Most seniors, unlike younger adults, do not show much desire in buying costly smartphones, which comes with an unnecessarily large number of features. Therefore, a budget-friendly phone, that has commonly used features and yet lends some style, is their preferred choice.
Other features
Features like battery life, sound quality, user-friendly interface, etc. are important in smartphones meant for seniors. In post-retirement life, music is man’s best friend in times of loneliness. The generation which has grown listening to music on the radio can relive their experience with smartphones as well. Before buying a smartphone for seniors, the sound and picture quality should always be checked, since some of the seniors may require higher sound and better resolutions due to old age factors.
7 Best budget-friendly smartphones to buy in 2022
There are plenty of smartphones available in the market which can be considered a good buy:
Redmi Note 10 – It comes with 4GB Ram, 64 GB storage, 5000 mAh battery, dual SIM card, 48 MP back camera, 13 MP front camera and 6.43 inches display. It costs around ₹11,999.
RealMi Narzo 20 Pro – It comes with 6GB Ram, 64 GB storage, 4500 mAh battery, dual SIM card, 16 MP front camera and 6.5 inches display. It claims to have the fastest charging in India (45 minutes full charge). It costs around ₹13,999.
Samsung Galaxy M21 – It has 4 GB RAM, 64 GB storage, 6000 mAh battery, dual SIM card, 48 MP back camera, 20 MP front camera and 6.4 inches display. It costs around $12,999.
Poco M3 – It comes with 6GB RAM, 128 GB storage, 6000 mAh battery, dual SIM card, 48 MP back camera, 8 MP front camera and 6.53 inches display. It has better sound quality under the budget-friendly category. It costs around ₹11,999.
RealMi 7i – It has availability of 4 GB RAM, 128 GB storage, 5000mAh battery, 3s card slot, 64 MP back camera, 16 MP front camera. It is a camera focussed phone, thus useful for photographers. It costs around ₹12,999.
Micromax IN 1 – This made in India phone comes with 4 GB Ram, 64 GB storage, 5000 mAh battery, dual SIM card, 48 MP back camera, 8 MP front camera and 6.67 inches display. It costs around ₹10,999.
Doro 7030 – This is a unique phone specially designed for seniors. It has a simplified user interface. It is compatible with hearing aid devices, has a dual SIM and 2.8 inches screen size. It costs around ₹7,500.
I hope this information helps you make an informed choice on which smartphone to buy for seniors!
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why do seniors need a smartphone?
Seniors, much like everyone else in 2022, need a device to stay connected with others, use mobile banks, scan QR codes for multiple things, take pictures and videos, access health records and a myriad of other services that have now become smartphone-centric. The primary factor is it provides access to timely help in case of an emergency.
How do I simplify a pre-existing phone for seniors?
Many things can be modified in a smartphone you already own, to optimise it for seniors, such as; installing senior-friendly launchers that simplify the OS, magnifying buttons & keys to increase accessibility, enlarging text sizes for easy readability, decluttering unwanted apps etc.
Should I buy a protection plan with the smartphone?
It is recommended to buy a protection plan for Seniors that tend to drop things, struggle with forgetfulness or live in an area with a high rate of theft. While these plans may cost more money they do offer an added layer of insurance for Seniors, saving money in the long term.
Choosing a phone
1. Pick by need: calls and WhatsApp, video calls, photos. 2. Check screen size and brightness, and large text options. 3. Look at sound: loud speaker and hearing-aid compatibility. 4. Prefer simple software and a responsive screen. 5. Check battery life and charging. 6. Consider a protective case and a loop for the wrist. 7. Set it up for your parent: big icons, contacts with photos and emergency contacts.
Prices and models change, so check current options. See amplified phones and phone and remote aids for arthritis.
Stay safe
Turn on screen lock, teach scam awareness and keep an emergency contact on the lock screen; see preventing scams and doorstep fraud.
When to ask a professional
An occupational therapist can help if tremor or vision loss makes phones hard to use.
Equipment mentioned in this guide
Frequently asked questions
What is the best phone for seniors?
One with a clear screen, loud sound and simple use that suits your parent.
Is an amplified phone better?
For hearing loss, yes.
How can I make a smartphone easier?
Increase text size, simplify the home screen and add contact photos.
Should I get a basic phone?
If your parent only needs calls, a simple phone may do.
Sources and further reading
- Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, India, accessibility guidance
- World Health Organization, Global report on assistive technology (2022)
- Age UK, guidance on choosing a phone
Tags: knowledge #Seniorssmartphones for seniorssimple phonesaccessibilitybuying guideLifestyle and wellbeingAmplified big-button phoneHearing and vision aidsHealthy ageingElder care
This article is for general education and is not medical advice. Speak to your doctor before changing your exercise, diet or medicines.
