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7 Best Cell Phones for Seniors With Dementia
Written by Grace Styron
about the author
10 minute readLast updated November 6, 2023
When it comes to finding the best cell phones for the elderly with dementia, there’s no one right option. Ultimately, choosing a phone will depend on your loved one’s specific needs and preferences. How tech-savvy are they? Is affordability a priority? Finding a phone that your loved one is comfortable with can give you both greater peace of mind. Read on to explore the best cell phones for seniors with dementia and how certain features can help you and your loved one navigate the challenges of living with dementia.
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In this Article
What to look for in phones for seniors with dementia
Determining the best phone for your loved one should primarily depend on their dementia-related symptoms. However, safety features and usability are key in any cell phone for dementia patients. When searching for a phone that’s suitable for a senior with dementia, look for the following qualities:
- Simple, easy-to-use functions with minimal bells and whistles
- Large screens, font, and buttons that are easy to see and use
- Safety features, such as an emergency function or GPS locating device, for easy access to help in urgent situations
- Voice-activated calling and prompts for faster, simpler usability
- Long battery life, so daily charging isn’t necessary
Overall best phone for seniors with dementia
The RAZ Memory Cell Phone is an innovative cell phone designed specifically for seniors with Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia. The device enables seniors to stay connected with their loved ones and avoid social isolation. It provides an easy-to-use experience with no applications, confusing settings, or unwanted notifications or system updates. Some of the phone’s most noteworthy features include: The best part? The RAZ includes a Remote Manage feature. By downloading the app on your own cell phone, you can manage certain aspects of your loved one’s device. You can edit their contacts, send reminders, track their location, and more. These changes go into effect right away. RAZ understands how common imagined emergencies resulting from paranoia or agitation can be among seniors with dementia. For an annual fee, users can purchase a RAZ Mobility Emergency Plan, which helps prevent unnecessary 911 calls. This optional service replaces the one-touch 911 button and directs 911 calls to an internal emergency dispatch agent. The agent is aware the caller has memory loss and can determine whether contacting 911 is necessary. This phone is unlocked and compatible with all wireless providers, including Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile.
- One large touchscreen with big, clear buttons
- Pictures displayed with each contact number
- Voice and video calls
- Easy one-touch dialing
- Quiet hours, when the phone will automatically silence calls
- Reminders for things like medications and appointments
- Location tracking
- 911 emergency button
Easiest dementia phone to use
When it comes to identifying the easiest cell phone for seniors with dementia to use, the Easyfone T200 4G Unlocked is at the top of the list. There are no frills or distractions with this gadget, as the phone can only be used for calling and texting. (It doesn’t have the ability to connect to the internet or take photos.) Basic functions and safety features of the Easyfone include: The Easyfone T200 4G Unlocked is compatible with T-Mobile, MetroPCS, SpeedTalk, and Tello Mobile. It comes with a charging dock, USB-C cable, U.S. standard charger, one battery, and a lanyard.
- Hearing aid compatibility
- SOS emergency button
- Bluetooth connectivity
- Large buttons
- Backlit screen
- Long-lasting battery
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Best flip phone
The Jitterbug Flip2 is a classic, well-loved flip-style phone produced by Lively that’s been on the market for years. It’s user-friendly, compact, and easily navigable. Thanks to its large buttons, bright screen, and powerful speaker, staying connected to friends and family is easy. The following senior-friendly functions make it a contender for the best phone for dementia patients: This cell phone even features built-in Amazon Alexa technology. Seniors can use their voice to write texts, make calls, check weather updates, and more. The Jitterbug Flip2 is provided by Lively, which offers service on the Verizon network and a variety of affordable plans. Users have the option to add Lively Health and Safety packages to their plan that can include access to services like Lively Urgent Care, Lively Rides, and the Lively Link app.
- Urgent Response button with access to the Lively Response Team
- Large screen and buttons
- Long-lasting battery
- Quality camera
- One-touch speed dialing
- Magnifier and flashlight
Best smartphone
While the Jitterbug Flip2 is a traditional flip phone, those who are more tech-savvy may enjoy the Jitterbug Smart3. This is a simple smartphone with the same safety features and access to Lively services as the Jitterbug Flip2 but with a sleek touchscreen design and video chat capability. The 6.2-inch screen makes reading, typing, and video calling easier. Notable senior-friendly features include:
- Easy-to-navigate menu
- Voice typing
- Video chat
- Long-lasting battery
- Preloaded how-to guides
- Urgent Response button
Best GPS tracking phone
The SECURE PHONE GPS tracker phone has minimal bells and whistles and is perfect for seniors who only want to talk and text. It features a single 4.25-inch touchscreen and a simple, intuitive user interface. This phone is equipped with a built-in GPS, an SOS button for emergencies, and the ability to add up to three pre-programmed speed dial numbers. Similar to the RAZ Memory Cell Phone, the SECURE PHONE also has optional monitoring features that caregivers can access from their own devices to ensure their loved ones’ safety. These include: The SECURE PHONE functions on the AT&T and T-Mobile 4G networks. Various talk, text, and data plans are available with monthly, quarterly, semi-annual, and annual payment options.
- Voice monitoring to listen to a senior’s surroundings
- Location history
- GeoFencing, which sends a notification when your loved one enters or leaves a predetermined area
Best accessibility and safety features
The Snapfōn ezFlip 4G is a senior flip phone designed for those with visual impairments. The screen uses high-contrast colors, large fonts, and adjustable brightness levels. Seniors can use the phone to call friends and relatives, send pictures and memories, browse the internet, check incoming weather, and listen to their favorite music. Easy-to-use, dementia-friendly features include: In addition to traditional cellular service, Snapfōn offers the sosPlus mobile monitoring service. For a monthly cost, this service essentially turns the phone into a medical alert system. Trained monitoring agents are available 24/7 to assist your loved one if there’s an emergency. Snapfōn devices like the ezFlip 4G require a prepaid Snapfōn Network Plan. All monthly plans include unlimited talk and text and can be customized to include data, too.
- Built-in fall detection
- GPS and Wi-Fi
- SOS emergency button to alert preselected contacts via call and text
- Hearing aid compatibility
- Enlarged keypad
- Bright screen and simplified menus
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Best touchscreen
While the GrandPad isn’t technically a cell phone, it offers several similar features. With this tablet-style device, users can stay connected with friends and family through video chats and phone calls. On top of that, the device has apps and services, such as games, email, radio, and an internet browser available on the home screen. It has a sleek and simple design with the following senior-friendly features: To use the GrandPad, you’ll have to purchase the subscription service. This includes a 4G LTE data plan, access to apps, and 24/7 support. Family members and caregivers can download the free GrandPad companion app to share photos and videos, update contact information, and more.
- Ergonomic design, plus a durable stylus
- Large buttons and an intuitive interface
- Enlarged, easy-to-read text
- Voice and video calls to stay connected with family or call for help in an emergency
- Built-in wireless data connectivity — no frustrating modems or passwords required
- Customizable private family network of trusted contacts to help protect against elder fraud
- Unlimited access to a 24/7/365 support team
- Comes ready to use, preloaded with predetermined contacts and preferences
Why phones for seniors with dementia matter
The impact of dementia on caregivers and family members can certainly be overwhelming and challenging. That’s why phones specifically designed for seniors with dementia are pivotal in helping to minimize caregiver stress and ensure efficient care. Specialized features, such as easy-to-press buttons, photo dialing, and pre-programmed emergency numbers, empower seniors to communicate effectively, reducing the likelihood of confusion or frustration. For caregivers, this translates to fewer instances of having to intervene or troubleshoot communication problems. Many of these phones also have specialized GPS tracking for those prone to dangerous wandering, providing caregivers with an added layer of security and peace of mind when they’re not with their loved ones. By fostering a smoother communication process and enhancing safety measures, the right phone can provide much-needed support for both caregivers and their loved ones. If ensuring your loved one’s safety is becoming more challenging, it may be time to look for additional support. For help finding a memory care community, contact one of our expert Senior Care Advisors. Alternatively, for family members who aren’t ready to move to senior living just yet, consider learning more about in-home care.
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