Mobile Phones for the Elderly

Trusted contacts are programmed into the phone during setup then, when the SOS button is pressed in an emergency, the phone will automatically dial your trusted contacts in turn until a successful connection is made.

There is a wide range of iPhone models out there, so the best version depends on your needs. Some newer models, such as the iPhone 11 feature larger screens for better visibility and FaceID which is great for people who suffer from arthritis. There are older models, like the iPhone 5SE which are more portable and retain the physical home button, making navigation easier to understand.

Mobile phones help the elderly keep in touch with their family and friends through standard and video calls, messaging and photo sharing. They also help people maintain their independence, keeping their loved ones reassured of their safety and providing them with a more active social life with more effective means of communication.

Some phone models, such as the Doro 780X, feature GPS tracking, whereas other models do not. Be sure to check the specifications before buying if that is a feature you are looking for.

The simplest mobile phone is the Doro 780X Simple Phone, with 3 customisable buttons to speed-dial contacts, large, clear and colourful answer and hangup buttons and a small light form.

There is not a “one size fits all” answer to the question for what the best phone is for an older person as it totally depends on what they’d like, their capabilities and what they’ll use. Phones are spectrum from the super simple (Doro 780X) to the phones with all bells and whistles (the latest iPhone). The best idea is to start simple and cheap and work your way up the complexity scale until you find the perfect match for you.