Best Mobile Phones for Seniors

About Nicole Pajer

Nicole Pajer is a Los Angeles-based freelance published in The New York Times, Woman's Day, AARP, Parade, Wired, Glamour, People and more.

senior man talking on the phone and laughing

In the market for a mobile phone for yourself—or perhaps an older loved one? With so many tech-centric devices on the market, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming, especially if you never felt the need to jump on the smartphone trend when they first came out. The good news? You don’t need the latest high-end smartphone if your main goal is just to stay connected.

Today, there are plenty of phones designed with simplicity, accessibility and safety in mind for those who don’t want all of the bells and whistles. From flip phones with large buttons to smartphones with picture-based calling and voice control, these devices are easier to use than you might think. Here are 7 top mobile phones that are great options for older adults.

1. Jitterbug Smart4 by Lively:

Looking for a smartphone that isn’t overwhelmingly packed with endless apps and settings to navigate? This is a popular choice for seniors due to its simple interface. It offers text-based navigation that makes setting up the phone a breeze. The menus are labeled with easy-to-read fonts and the text can be enlarged to the user’s preference. In addition to touch navigation, the Jitterbug works with voice commands that can be used to do everything from set an alarm to send a text message or open an app. Some plans offer 24/7 urgent response and can help with everything from medical emergencies to needing to contact a locksmith. It also comes with Wi-Fi calling, which makes it a popular choice for those who live in areas with poor cell service.

$59.99 jitterbug.com

2. Jitterbug Flip2

Want the ease of use and simplicity of the Jitterbug in a non-smartphone format? Try this flip phone version. It’s an affordable phone with plans starting at $14.99 per month. This includes standard talk and text and the ability to Ask Lively for assistance with things like ordering a rideshare for you without needing to install an app. More advanced phone plans include 24/7 access to urgent response agents and the ability for friends and family to be sent a notification in the event of an emergency. And the premium plan offers care advocates and nurse on call access. There are no apps or fancy button pushing needs with this phone. Just flip open to answer.

$39.99 jitterbug.com

3. RAZ Memory Cell Phone

This is a popular phone for seniors who want a simpler smartphone experience. It comes with video calling, spam-call protection, and wireless charging. There is a special mode for those with low vision or who experience hand tremors. And it is also made to assist those with cognitive challenges or dementia. Instead of having to navigate a menu to find a contact, seniors can make a quick call by pressing on the image of a loved one on the screen. The phone is also equipped with alerts that help remind users when to take medication, appointments or important events. It even has a loneliness alert that can be sent to a loved one when the phone user hasn’t received a certain number of calls, prompting a check in. It also has a location tracker function for caregivers.

$349 Razmobility.com

4. Easyfone T6 4G Picture Button Cell Phone

Like the Raz Memory phone, this phone allows users to make calls directly by pushing on picture buttons that feature photos of contacts. It has a long battery life, a powerful speaker and is compatible with hearing devices. There is an SOS button that you can press and hold in the event of an emergency. It has a neck lanyard for those who are looking for an easy way to keep it with themselves at all times. Easyfone is compatible with plans through T-Mobile, Speed Talk and Tello Mobile.

$71.99 amazon.com

5. Alcatel Go Flip 4

This is a great solution for tech-cautious seniors who still want some amenities of a modern smartphone. The Alcatel offers a traditional keypad with a simple interface but still provides the ability for basic web browsing. It also comes with a built-in Google Assistant. It has GPS and email capabilities and is outfitted with large, tactile buttons, clear audio and support for HD voice. The phone's external display provides a preview of who’s calling and alerts users of new notifications without even needing to open the phone. The brightness can be increased, and the text can be enlarged for better visibility.

$56.99 amazon.com

6. Snapfon ez4G

The Snapfon ez4G has a bright, high-contrast screen that is easy to read and navigate. It has a built-in one-touch SOS button that contacts up to 5 preselected contacts through calls and texts in the event of an emergency. It comes preloaded with applications like email, Facebook, FM radio and a weather app. The phone’s speaker is extra loud, making it a good choice for those with hearing loss and its large fonts and contrast settings make it a good choice for those with vision impairments.

$60.00 snapfon.com

7. Nokia 2780 Flip

This classic smartphone comes outfitted with modern features such as Wi-Fi calling and a simple interface that supports essential apps like WhatsApp and Google Maps. It has bigger buttons, is hearing aid compatible and has a programmable side button that makes it easy to dial a loved one in the event of an emergency. It’s a sleek flip phone that makes answering calls more of a traditional experience, complete with caller ID on the outside of the phone but also enables users to browse the Internet and download apps.

$89.99 bestbuy.com

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