In today’s world, it’s very important to stay connected. This is especially true for the elderly who may need to reach loved ones or emergency services fast. More people now own mobile phones, however, modern smartphones may be difficult for the elderly to use. This guide will help you find the best mobile phones for the elderly that are easy to use to help them stay connected.
Please note: we don’t have any commercial affiliation with the mobile phone providers included in this guide. We recommend trying different devices for yourself to find the best one for you.
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Who are Alina Homecare?
Alina Homecare is an award winning Home Care provider in the South of England.
If your loved one has extra care needs and want to receive support in the comfort and familiarity of the place they call home, contact your local Alina Homecare Team today.
Why do the elderly use mobile phones?
There are a range of uses for mobile phones. Whilst different generations may use them for different reasons, many elderly people have mobile phones in case of emergency as well as to chat with their loved ones. This can help mitigate feelings of loneliness, especially if they’re living alone.
According to Age UK1, here are some of the reasons why the elderly use mobile phones:
- Chatting with loved ones
- Checking the weather forecast
- Listening to music, podcasts or the radio
- Browsing the internet & shopping online
- Playing games
- Contacting emergency services or healthcare professionals
- Monitoring health & wellbeing through connected devices or care monitoring apps.
- Setting alarms or reminders
- Using maps & GPS
What to look for in mobile phones for the elderly?
Many elderly people use mobile phones. In fact, over 80% of people aged over 65 own one.2 However, the biggest block for elderly people using modern technology is the lack of knowledge and understanding of how to use different devices.3
As a result, there are now many mobile phones on the market that are designed with elderly people in mind. Often, they’re simple and easy to use with different features that can help support an elderly person’s lifestyle.
When choosing mobile phones for elderly people, you should think about what they need and any issues they may face that can prevent them from using them. Consider how comfortable they are with technology and what they will use a mobile phone for. Also, think about any physical challenges such as poor dexterity, arthritis, vision or hearing difficulties or memory problems.
- Look for features that help make using the phone easier
- This could include simple menus, big buttons or larger screens
- The main goal is to find a phone that’s easy for them to use by themselves and fulfils their needs
The importance of user friendly features
When choosing phones for seniors, user friendly features really matter. A large display is key as users can change font sizes for better visibility. This is particularly useful for the elderly who have vision impairments. Also, clear buttons that are easy to feel and are placed apart can help prevent clicking the wrong button.
Some phones are even designed to work in conjunction with hearing aids. You need to ensure these connect easily to a given device and has enough volume. Hearing aid ratings like M3/T3 or M4/T4 can help a lot in making phone calls sound better.
Ultimately, it’s best to choose a phone that has features to help elderly users feel more confident and willing to use their phones. As a result, this can make it easier for them to stay connected with loved ones.
Top mobile phones for the elderly: key considerations & examples
When choosing a mobile phone for seniors, it’s important to understand why they need one and how they’ll use it. You need to consider what features are needed on the phone, as well as any additional accessibility features that make them easier for some people to use.
Whilst modern technology can be great, it’s not always about choosing the latest model or flashiest mobile phone. Selecting the right one can significantly enhance connectivity, independence and safety for elderly users.
There’s a wide range of mobile phones on the market that are designed with elderly users in mind. For example, they may have bigger screens or a longer battery life than average or use advanced safety features like an SOS emergency button. Learn more about some of the top mobile phones for seniors in the UK:
Big button mobile phones
If your loved one has dexterity issues or a visual impairment, using a phone with normal sized buttons may be difficult. Using a mobile phone that has large buttons can help. As they are larger, they’re easier to see and press which can make it easier to call numbers and helps prevent misdialling someone.
Nowadays, a lot of mobile phones on the market don’t come with buttons. However, if larger buttons can make using a phone easier, there are a range of models available. Some have quick dial buttons which can be programmed with loved one’s numbers so they can be contacted through the click of a button. This can be particularly beneficial for someone living with dementia or who experiences paranoia for example.
Top choices for mobile phones with big buttons:
Doro 780x
Doro 780x
The Doro 780x is simple to use and allows users to call loved ones at the click of a button with its quick dial feature. It also has an assistance button for sending an alarm with GPS location if help is needed urgently.
Geemarc CL8000
Geemarc CL8000
If you’re looking for an all rounder, the Geemarc CL8000 phone could be it! It has large buttons (including quick dial), a high contrast screen, hearing aid compatibility and an SOS emergency call button.
TTfone TT880
TTfone TT880
The TTfone TT880 is designed for people on a budget looking for something that’s durable and has plenty of helpful features. This easy to use phone has a spacious keypad with large buttons, extra long battery life, a torch, an SOS alarm function and has an extra loud speaker so it’s perfect for anyone with hearing difficulties.
Mobile phones with big screens
As we age, our vision will deteriorate. It’s reported that one in five people aged over 75 in the UK experience vision loss.4 Because of this, having a phone with a large screen can make it easier for the elderly to use.
A wider display provides more space to see and read things more clearly. It also helps users to navigate through the phone and use it for their intended purpose. As a result, this reduces the chances of experiencing eye strain.
Top choices for mobile phones with big screens:
Doro 8200
Doro 8200
The Doro 8200 can be a good choice for seniors who have poor vision or would benefit from using a phone with a larger screen and adjustable icon size. It has great features including ClearSound which makes phone calls extra clear and Google Assistant so voice commands can be used.
Swissvoice S510-C
Swissvoice S510-C
With an XL HD colour screen, an SOS alarm button and hearing aid compatibility, the Swissvoice S510-C can be a great mobile phone for the elderly. It also comes with a lanyard which can be worn around the neck or wrist so the phone can be at hand whenever it’s needed.
Maxcom MS554 Smartphone
Maxcom MS554 Smartphone
The Maxcom MS554 Smartphone has a large, high resolution screen, an SOS alarm button with GPS location tracking and also a great camera for those who enjoy taking pictures.
Flip phones
Although they’re not as popular as they once were, flip phones can be a great choice for elderly users. Their simple design makes it easy for the elderly to use – especially as calls can be picked up or terminated by opening or closing the phone without any buttons needing to be pressed.
Most flip phones have limited capabilities and are mainly used for calling and texting. Some models have large buttons which can make these phones ideal for elderly people in need of basic functions only. Typically, flip phones have a long battery life, so elderly people won’t have to go through the effort of charging them as often as other mobile phones.
Top choices for flip phones for seniors:
TTfone TT760
TTfone TT760
This flip phone can be a great budget friendly option. It has big buttons to make typing easier, an emergency assistance button in case of an urgent situation and a great battery life. The TTfone TT760 is also only 130g so perfect for someone who would find using a heavier phone difficult.
Doro Leva L20
Doro Leva L20
Enjoy calling, texting and taking pictures on this flip phone. The Doro Leva L20 has widely separated keys and a large display to make using this phone simple for the elderly. It also has HD voice speakers to make conversations clearer.
Geemarc CL8700
Geemarc CL8700
The Geemarc CL8700 is another option that’s designed with the elderly in mind. It’s compatible with hearing aids, has large buttons and a high contrast screen. It also has the helpful feature of a talking keypad which can read text aloud in 16 different languages.
Small & lightweight mobile phones
Small and lightweight mobile phones can be very useful for elderly people. Whilst phones with features such as a large display or big buttons can be helpful for some elderly users, others may want a phone that’s light and small.
Compact lightweight phones can be easier to carry and use than larger phones, especially for seniors with limited mobility. They can fit easily into a pocket or handbag when out and about so elderly people have a way of contacting someone in an emergency, no matter where they are.
Top choices for small and lightweight mobile phones:
Nokia 105
Nokia 105
Weighing in at less than 80g, the Nokia 105 combines a tough and reliable build with a big battery. It can withstand a few knocks and offers a 22 day battery life from a single charge on standby mode.
Panasonic KX-TU160EXG
Panasonic KX-TU160EXG
This lightweight phone weighs only 69g and has a bright 2.4 inch LCD to make viewing the screen easier. Not only does the Panasonic KX-TU160EXG have a long battery life, but is also compatible with hearing aids and has a priority call button to reach a saved contact in an emergency.
Doro 1380
Doro 1380
At only 97g and offering helpful features, the Doro 1380 is another option for elderly users. It has large buttons and a wide display to make using the phone simple and has an emergency assistance button. It also has a built in FM radio for those who like to listen to the news or music.
Mobile phones with a long battery life
Having to charge a mobile phone frequently can be difficult and stressful for some elderly users. Phones with a long battery life can help ease this concern. Their ability to remain charged and ready to use can be beneficial for the elderly, particularly in an emergency.
Mobile phones with a long battery life often have easy to use systems and fewer apps. that drain the battery. This is helpful for the elderly as they might forget to charge their phone or struggle with plugging cables in. As a result, this offers peace of mind for them and their loved ones.
Top choices for mobile phones with a long battery life:
Nokia C32
Nokia C32
With a three day battery life, the Nokia C32 is a reliable mobile phone for seniors. Even with such a great battery, it boasts features such as a large display and high definition camera. This could be ideal for someone more comfortable with technology.
Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra
Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra
The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra has a great battery life and a range of modern features. Not only can the battery remain charged for up to three days with moderate use, but it also has great features to make life easier for elderly users.
OnePlus Nord CE 2
OnePlus Nord CE 2
The OnePlus Nord CE 2 features super fast charging and can go from flat to full battery in just 15 minutes! This is especially impressive considering it’s 5G, has a large OLED screen and is priced generally much lower than comparable models.
Mobile phones with SOS alarm functions
Specialised mobile phones for seniors with SOS alarm functions can be very important in terms of safety and wellbeing, especially if they live alone. These phones can give peace of mind to both the elderly user and their loved ones in case of an emergency. Most mobile phones with this feature allow loved ones or emergency services to be contacted at the click of a button.
The design of these phones makes the SOS alarm feature easy to use. They’re often placed on the front or the back of the phone and are typically bright red so that they stand out. This makes it especially easy to use for elderly people who may not be comfortable with technology.
Top choices for mobile phones with SOS alarm functions:
Emporia SMART.6
Emporia SMART.6
The Emporia SMART.6 can give the elderly and their loved one’s peace of mind. It has an SOS call button located at the back of the phone so emergency services or family can be called at the click of a button. It also comes with extra features to make using the phone easier for seniors, such as large speed dial keys and voice input.
Geemarc CL8600
Geemarc CL8600
Combining safety and simplicity, the Geemarc CL8600 can be a good choice for elderly people. Its emergency SOS button alerts one of five saved numbers when pressed and will send a message with GPS location for increased safety. It’s also compatible with hearing aids and has a large screen and dialling buttons for people with a hearing or visual impairment.
TTfone TT190
TTfone TT190
The simple design of the TTfone TT190 makes it easy for the elderly to use. It’s small, lightweight and has an emergency calls button on the back. The button is bright so can easily be identified and loved ones or emergency services can be contacted quickly if needed.
Mobile phones with amplified sound
Over 80% of elderly people aged over 70 in the UK experience hearing loss.5 This can make it hard for them to use a mobile phone as they may not be able to hear sound well through the phone. This can be especially problematic when talking to someone over the phone if they can’t hear them.
Mobile phones for the elderly with amplified sound can help with this. They provide clearer and louder audio which can make calls easier. As a result, elderly users won’t have to strain to hear or worry about missing any important information.
Top choices for mobile phones with amplified sound:
TTfone TT970
TTfone TT970
The TTfone TT970 flip phone could be a great option for elderly people looking for a simple phone. It’s compatible with hearing aids and has an extra 25db speaker amplifier to increase the volume and make it easier to hear sound through the phone. It’s small and light so can easily fit in a pocket or users can wear it around their neck with the strap supplied so it’s always at hand.
Doro 2880
Doro 2880
The Doro 2880 is a highly rated, accessible mobile phone designed for seniors. The amplified receiver and ringer volume make it ideal for people who are hard of hearing. It’s also hearing aid compatible. It has a high contrast display with big text font and a built in assistance button for safety.
Doro 1380
Doro 1380
With a 35db receiver volume that’s six times louder than a standard mobile phone, the Doro 1380 can be a fantastic option for seniors who experience hearing difficulties. It has wide spaced keys for easy typing, a built in torch and an assistance button for safety.
A step by step guide to choosing mobile phones for the elderly
Choosing a mobile phone for an elderly loved one needs careful thought. It’s not just about choosing the latest model. You want to choose a phone that they will be confident in using to help them easily stay connected to family and friends. Our step by step guide can help you make the right choice for you and your loved one’s requirements.
It’s important to check what their preferences are and the intended purpose of the phone. You should also think about what features the phone will need to suit their needs such as a long battery life or hearing aid compatibility.
What you’ll need to get started
Before looking at different models, it can be beneficial to gather some information first. Consider how comfortable the user is with technology. Do they know how to use a modern smartphone? Would they find it easier to use something simpler?
Next, think about their lifestyle and how they will use their phone. Will they need internet access? Do they need popular social media apps like WhatsApp or Facebook? Do they enjoy taking pictures? Will they use it to watch videos and listen to the radio?
Consider their physical abilities. Do they have any problems with their hands or dexterity that make it hard to use a touchscreen? Will they need a phone with a large screen and dialling buttons?
Step 1: Assessing mobility & cognitive needs
The first step is to understand your elderly loved one’s abiltites to move and think. Look for any obvious health problems that can make it difficult to use a mobile phone. Do they shake? Can they move their hands easily? Do they have difficulty with small tasks? Understanding their needs can help you find a mobile phone that’s tailored to meet them.
It can also be helpful to consider if they experience memory loss or confusion. Some phones have highly basic designs with fewer functions which can be easier to use for people who may have trouble with complex phone menus.
Step 2: Identifying essential features
Next, check for physical features of the phone that they may want or need. Do they prefer a keypad with extra large or standard sized buttons? Is an SOS alarm button important for safety and peace of mind?
You should also think about their hearing needs. Do they need the phone to be compatible with hearing aids? This feature ensures the phone’s volume is loud enough for the hearing aid to work correctly.
Step 3: Considering budget & carrier options
Mobile phone prices can vary a lot. It’s best to set a budget before you begin your search, especially if you have concerns about costs. Luckily, there are many affordable options available with a range of helpful features for the elderly.
It’s important to consider phone carriers as well. Does your elderly loved one need a certain network to get better coverage where they live? It can be helpful to look at different plans and coverage maps online beforehand, especially if they live in a rural area. Ensure that the carrier you choose has plans that meet their needs, for instance, if they want to use it to send text messages, make calls or both.
Step 4: Testing phones with seniors
Before you choose a phone, it’s important to include your loved one in the decision. If you’re able to, it can be good to visit a store together and look at some phones in person. Let them try out some different models and get a feel for them. This hands on experience will help you and them see how comfortable they are with the model and features.
- Encourage them to make and receive practice calls
- Watch how easily they use menus and find important features
- Ask them if they can see the screen and use the buttons easily
How to make mobile phones easier to use for the elderly
Whilst there are models available that have been designed with the elderly in mind, there are some things you can do on a standard mobile phone to make them easier to use for the elderly. Most smartphones allow you to tailor some display settings to meet specific needs. This can be beneficial for older adults who already have a mobile phone but find it difficult to use.
There’s a range of settings you can adjust, including:
- Increase the font size
- Use a voice assistant to search the web and apps.
- Use voice to text functions for sending and listening to messages
- Organise apps. so the most used ones are easy to access and unused apps. are deleted
- Add shortcuts to the most used apps. or to reach the most contacted numbers
- Customise accessibility settings such as display brightness
How Alina Homecare helps the elderly keep in contact
At Alina Homecare, we’re dedicated to helping the elderly live in the comfort of their home as safely and as independently as possible with our award winning Home Care services. Our compassionate Care Assistants can support your loved one at home to keep in contact with the important people in their life. They help with a range of things from housework to personal hygiene support and will be more than happy to assist your loved with questions regarding technology so they can remain connected.
We also provide high quality Companion Care if your elderly loved one experience loneliness or if family members live far away. Our Companion Care can help to mitigate negative emotions and promote feelings of happiness.
Contact your local Alina Homecare Team today to learn more about how we can help.
Quick questions
What mobile phones are good for the elderly?
The best phone for seniors is one they feel confident and comfortable using. Many older people prefer flip phones or phones with dialling buttons instead of a touchscreen. It can also be helpful to choose something that has a long battery life. You need to consider their needs and what features the phone has to meet them.
How do I choose a mobile phone for the elderly?
When choosing mobile phones for the elderly, think about what their needs and how simple it is for them to use. You should also talk to your loved one to understand what they want. A large display can help them see the screen and read text more easily than standard phones. The buttons should be clear and easy to press and the speakers should be loud enough for them to hear calls. An SOS emergency alarm button can be beneficial in case of an emergency.
What’s the easiest smartphone for an elderly person to use?
Smartphones with a simple interface can be easier for elderly users. They should include a large touch button display for easy operation. Look for models that have clear buttons and a menu that’s easy to navigate. There are also ways you can change certain settings, such as font size and voice control which can make using a smartphone easier for seniors.
How are mobile phones for the elderly designed to be more user friendly?
There are a range of ways mobile phones for the elderly are tailored to meet their needs. Most of them have features such as large buttons, wide displays and louder speaker volume. Some even have an SOS emergency alarm button or are compatible with hearing aids. The main goal is to keep things simple. They should have an easy to use interface so that elderly users can use it without feeling frustrated or confused.
References
1. Age UK, “Facts and figures about digital inclusion and older people“, Reviewed 13 March 2025
2. Careline, “Teaching Modern Technology to Your Elderly Loved Ones“, Reviewed 13 March 2025
3. Statista, “Barriers to use technology among older adults worldwide in 2023, by type and age group“, Reviewed 13 March 2025
4. Centre for Ageing Better, “Increasing the visibility of visual impairment in later life“, Reviewed 13 March 2025
5. RNID, “Prevalence of deafness and hearing loss“, Reviewed 13 March 2025