There are several reasons why it may be important for your elderly parent to have a phone. A phone can be a lifeline for your elderly parent in an emergency situation. It can allow them to call for help if they fall or become ill, and it can also allow you to check in with them regularly to ensure their safety.
A phone can also help your elderly parent to maintain their independence by allowing them to communicate with others and access information on their own. It can also allow your aging loved one to stay connected with family members, friends and their community. This can become vital in maintaining their psychological health which can be just as important as their physical health.
A phone can also provide your elderly parent with access to a range of resources, such as health information, transportation services, and delivery options for groceries and other necessities.
Here are some steps you can follow to help your aging loved one select the right phone:
- Consider their needs: Think about your loved one’s specific needs and how they will be using the phone. For example, do they need a phone with a large screen and buttons, or would they prefer a smartphone with a touchscreen?
- Research phone options: Look into different phone options that meet your loved one’s needs and compare their features and prices. Consider factors such as battery life, durability, and ease of use.
- Involve your loved one in the decision-making process: It’s important to involve your loved one in the decision-making process and to take their preferences into account. This will help them to feel empowered and more confident in using the phone.
- Set up and test the phone: Once you have selected a phone, set it up and test it with your loved one to make sure it meets their needs and is easy for them to use.
- Consider phone accessories: There are a variety of phone accessories that can make the phone easier for your loved one to use, such as a case with a wrist strap, a hands-free headset, or a screen protector.
- Provide support and assistance: Finally, be available to provide support and assistance as your loved one gets used to using their new phone. This may include helping them to make calls, send texts, or use other features.
If your loved one has challenges with the more common cell phones, you can also look into getting them a phone specifically designed for the elderly. These phones often have large buttons and screens, simple menus and interfaces, and other features that are tailored to seniors. Some examples of cell phone options for seniors include:
- Jitterbug Flip: This phone has a large screen and buttons, as well as a built-in camera and a long-lasting battery. It also has a 24/7 support line for assistance with the phone or other issues.
- GreatCall Jitterbug Smart2: This smartphone has a large screen and buttons, as well as a simplified interface and a range of features such as medication reminders and a 5Star urgent response service.
- Doro 8035: This smartphone has a large screen and buttons, as well as a range of features designed for seniors, including a built-in flashlight and a panic button for emergencies.
- Snapfon ezTWO Senior Phone: This phone has large buttons and a long-lasting battery, as well as a built-in flashlight and a panic button for emergencies. It also has a speakerphone feature and an SOS button that can send an alert to a caregiver or loved one.
It’s important to consider your elderly loved one’s specific needs and preferences when choosing a cell phone. Some seniors may prefer a more basic phone with fewer features, while others may be interested in a smartphone with more advanced capabilities.
