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Whether you’re looking for a cell phone with clear, loud audio quality or the ability to dial your grandchildren easily whenever you feel like it, you’ll quickly discover modern cell phones provide simple call and text tools. In fact, emergency buttons and high-end cameras are only the beginning of today’s older-adult-friendly cell phones.
To determine the best smartphones for seniors of 2022, the Forbes Health editorial team analyzed data on more than three dozen devices from top brands, ranking them based on price, network and carrier compatibility, screen size, hearing aid compatibility, the inclusion of an emergency feature and more. Read on to see our top picks. Note: Prices are accurate as of the publication date.
To determine the smartphones for seniors of 2022, the Forbes Health editorial team analyzed data on more than three dozen devices from top brands, ranking them based on:
In 2022, not having a cell phone is unimaginable for many people. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, restaurants are turning to quick read (QR) codes or similar cell-phone-required technologies to provide contactless menus. Cell phones can also carry virtual credit cards for contactless payment at a variety of businesses.
More importantly, a cell phone is one of the best and easiest ways anyone can contact anyone else anywhere in the world, on the spot. This connectivity is especially useful in the case of an emergency.
Seniors may also want a cell phone to:
Depending on needs and mobility, a person’s preference may lean toward a basic phone instead of a smartphone. Where basic phones offer the most simple features, including calling and texting, smartphones also connect to the internet and use data to download and access a variety of applications, or apps, from social media to online banking. Smartphones also often feature emergency signaling capabilities, thanks to their inclusion of GPS technology.
Nonetheless, a basic phone may feel like a more natural fit for you. Our suggestion? Try both styles in an electronics store near you to determine whether one feels easier to use than the other.
| # | Preview | Product | Rating | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
 |
Jitterbug Flip2 Cell Phone for Seniors Red |
1,389 Reviews |
$74.50 | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |
 |
ZTE Blade Spark Z971 (16GB, 2GB RAM) 5.5″ Full HD… |
450 Reviews |
$89.00 | Buy on Amazon |
| 3 |
 |
Jitterbug Smart3 Smartphone for Seniors |
506 Reviews |
$112.01 | Buy on Amazon |
| 4 |
 |
AGM M7 Rugged Phone with Charging Dock | 4G… |
18 Reviews |
$129.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 5 |
 |
Jethro SC490 Unlocked 4G Cell Phone for Seniors &… |
6 Reviews |
$144.99 | Buy on Amazon |
The features you’ll need depend on your vision, hearing, dexterity and more. Consider:
One way many phone providers gain long-term customers and increase business is via long-term contracts. These contracts often make changing phones difficult until the contract term ends. If you don’t use the phone, or want a different one, it may be expensive and/or challenging to get a new one. Instead, focus on short-term contracts or pay-as-you-go (prepaid) options, and be sure to understand the commitment.
Most modern smartphones have high-quality cameras. Some are better with low-light pictures and videos and may include a flash that can be used as a light, a zoom option, the option to scan QR codes or cameras on both the front and back of the phone for video chat purposes. Many more advanced features are only included with more advanced phones, but most basic smartphones offer the majority of these near-ubiquitous features.
A smartphone should also offer a battery life of at least 12 hours—ideally 24 to 48 hours. Battery life decreases as the battery is charged and drained over its lifetime, and it’s common to need to charge a phone more often as it gets older. In fact, keeping a phone continuously plugged in can wear out its battery, so take phones off chargers when full to improve their lifespan.
Many smartphones have security features like thumbprint readers and passcodes. A good smartphone will have an “emergency” feature, which allows the user to make phone calls, including 911, without the hassle of entering passwords or reading a fingerprint. These emergency buttons can be used to call for help easily and can be a great feature for seniors prone to (or at a higher risk of) falls or accidents.
Some cell phones have medical alert systems with built-in GPS technology, which could be helpful for people who are likely to require medical help or are at risk of accidents of any kind. These features don’t often need to be built in by default—downloading an application designed for this specific purpose works, too. The phone must have a GPS, however.
The price and quality of a phone depend on the brand, version and features it includes. An Apple iPhone ranges from $399 to well over $1,000 while less well-known smartphones can be much more affordable.
Certain glass phones are more likely to break and need replacement, whereas a less expensive and more ergonomic option may be a better choice. Using a case and screen protector on a phone is also a great way to help protect a costly investment. Note that service providers may also offer deals on phones in order to incentivize signing up with the service or signing a contract. Phones can be leased instead of purchased outright as well.
The service provider you choose should offer a combination of call, text and data (or internet) options. Smartphones require data connections and services to complete many tasks—searching for restaurants, watching online videos, making video calls with family members—and must connect to a WiFi network. Data can easily be used up quickly, so for avid users who plan to maximize the use of their phones, the more data service that can be purchased, the better.
Phone providers selling phone service plans should ask what the needs are of the end user in terms of internet usage, phone minutes and text messages to help choose or tailor a plan to the individual’s needs. Shopping for options among phone service providers will help you find the right plan for you.
For people who tend to drop things, are on the road a lot or live, work or travel near places with a high risk of theft, it’s recommended that you purchase a phone protection plan with any smartphone. These plans are also a good idea for forgetful people—whose phones like to go swimming, are left on the hood of a car or otherwise placed in dangerous locations. These plans may be pricey but can be a helpful insurance plan.
Older adults who want the best smartphone for seniors should look for factors like an abundance of senior-friendly features and consider important points like price, quality and the cell phone service provider—all while avoiding long-term contracts. Protecting a phone with an insurance policy may be a good idea. For those who aren’t fully convinced they need the most intelligent of phones, a basic phone may instead be a better choice.
Information provided on Forbes Health is for educational purposes only. Your health and wellness is unique to you, and the products and services we review may not be right for your circumstances. We do not offer individual medical advice, diagnosis or treatment plans. For personal advice, please consult with a medical professional.
Forbes Health adheres to strict editorial integrity standards. To the best of our knowledge, all content is accurate as of the date posted, though offers contained herein may no longer be available. The opinions expressed are the author’s alone and have not been provided, approved or otherwise endorsed by our advertisers.
