Phones Made Simple: Accessibility and Apps for Older Users

Smartphones can be a lifeline for older people, helping them stay connected, manage daily life, and enjoy hobbies. But they can also feel complicated and difficult to navigate with physical challenges. Here are our top tips for choosing a smartphone, getting it set up for easy and accessible use and which apps might be a good addition.

Choosing the Right Phone

Not all smartphones are created equal when it comes to older users. Some key considerations:

• Screen size and readability: Larger screens with adjustable text sizes make reading easier.

• Simplicity: Phones with a clean, easy-to-navigate interface reduce confusion.

• Battery life: Longer battery life means fewer worries about constant charging.

Popular options for older users include:

• Apple iPhone: Simple, reliable, and packed with accessibility features. iOS also has a clean, intuitive interface and regular security updates.

• Samsung Galaxy (or other Android phones): Highly customisable, with extensive accessibility options built in. Devices like the Samsung Galaxy A series combine affordability with large screens.

• Doro phones: Designed specifically for older users, Doro devices offer simplified menus, larger buttons, and hearing aid compatibility.

Adding a durable shock-absorbing case and screen protector can also help protect the phone from drops, and having a case which is textured may also make it easier to keep hold of.

Accessibility

Modern phones include tools to make using them easier for those with vision, hearing, or dexterity challenges:

• On Android (Settings → Accessibility):

  • Vision enhancements: Increase text size, enable high contrast, or invert colours for easier reading.

  • TalkBack: A screen reader that speaks aloud what’s on the screen.

  • Dexterity settings: Adjust touch sensitivity, enable assistant menus, or simplify gestures.

• On iPhone (Settings → Accessibility):

  • VoiceOver: Reads text aloud and provides audio cues.

  • Zoom and Magnifier: Magnifies the screen or uses the camera as a magnifying glass.

  • AssistiveTouch: Offers on-screen buttons for people who struggle with swipes and taps.

  • Hearing aid compatibility: Works with certain devices to improve call clarity.

Apps That Make Daily Life Easier

Once a phone is set up, the right apps can help boost independence, stay connected, and make daily life more enjoyable. Placing shortcuts to frequently used apps on the home screen makes them easier to access at a glance.

• Stay Connected: Use WhatsApp, FaceTime, Zoom, or Skype to keep in touch with family and friends through video calls.

• Health & Medication: Manage appointments with the NHS App, set medication reminders with Medisafe, or receive daily health prompts from Pillo.

• Entertainment & Learning: Enjoy music and audiobooks with Spotify or Audible, explore new languages with Duolingo, or take virtual trips and learn new skills through YouTube.

• Wellbeing & Mindfulness: Support mental and physical wellbeing with meditation apps like Headspace and Calm, try senior-friendly exercise apps for strength and fitness, or explore nature with a plant identifier app on your next walk.

At Plan With Care, we use technology to help people stay connected, discover new experiences and skills, and explore memories and history. As part of our care and companionship services we can help older people explore technology that suits their needs and lifestyle, always in a patient and supportive way. For further information visit our companionship page.