9 Best Cell Phones for Seniors with Dementia in 2023
The best cell phones for seniors with dementia — is there such a thing?
The answer is yes.
As much as we love our smartphones, dementia patients would have a difficult time using them. It will be more challenging if they’re in their 70s or 80s.
Can you imagine giving a seniors’ smartphone to your 80-year-old grandmother who has poor eyesight with memory, comprehension, and language problems? It’ll be too much for her to handle.
It’s crucial to pick out a cell phone that’s simple to understand for the elderly with dementia.
Let me save you from the research work. If you’re looking for a cell phone for your loved one with dementia, you’ve come to the right place.
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Sponsored RAZ Memory Cell Phone
RAZ Memory Cell Phone-Best Cell Phones for Seniors with Dementia
Well, before we get a move on with our list of the top 7 cell phones for seniors with dementia, let me make a special mention of one of the best cell phones for the mentioned consumer market. It is the RAZ Memory cell phone. The phone is manufactured especially for people with dementia. Read on to know more about this special phone.
The RAZ Memory Cell Phone is designed specifically for people with cognitive decline, such as dementia. The one-touch dial picture phone is focused on simplicity. It consists of one primary screen, and one screen only.
The screen includes 3 elements:
- Pictures and names of up to six contacts (with an option for up to twenty-four);
- A button to call 911;
- Alternative RAZ Emergency Service to avoid unwanted 911 calls (requires subscription);
- Time, battery power and signal strength.
That’s it! There are no applications or settings to cause confusion. Simply tap the picture of the person you wish to call.
The contacts and features are controlled remotely by the caregiver through an online portal.
Design
It looks like a standard smartphone. You cannot tell from the device that it is designed for people with cognitive decline.
Audio
The volume rocker is set at maximum and cannot be adjusted. This prevents the user from inadvertently lowering the volume and not being able to hear. Also, there is an option to have calls go to the speaker.
The phone is hearing aid compatible with a rating of M3/T3.
Safety
The screen includes a button to call 911. For those users who suffer from dementia and repetitively call 911, there is an option to subscribe to the RAZ Emergency Service. Dispatch agents will know that the caller suffers from memory loss and caregivers will be notified of emergency calls by text message, giving them the opportunity to cancel the emergency.
The Best Cell Phones for Seniors with Dementia
1. Jitterbug Flip Cell Phone for Seniors by GreatCall
| Dimensions | 4.3 x 2.2 x 0.7 inches |
| Screen Size | 3.2 inches |
| Weight | 0.29 lbs |
| Connectivity | LTE; Bluetooth; WiFi |
| GPS Tracking | Available |
| Battery Capacity | 1780 mAh |
| Standby Time | 25 days |
| Band | CDMA; 4/13 |
One of the most popular mobile phones for seniors with dementia is the Jitterbug Flip. It has tons of features that are easy-to-use and beneficial to your loved one.
Design
It looks like a classic flip phone in the 90s that has bigger buttons. The buttons have big numbers, but the sizes of the letters could use some improvement.
There are clear Yes and No buttons as well as navigational arrows. The screen has a bright display and visible characters as well. When you flip the phone closed, there’s also a display for the time.
Audio
Seniors with dementia will appreciate the loud audio from the Jitterbug Flip. This will make phone calls crystal clear.
Can my grandfather with a hearing aid use this phone?
Yes, he can. It’s compatible with M4/T4 hearing aids.
Safety
The phone has a built-in 5Star emergency button making it one of the best cell phones for seniors with dementia. Press this button to get 24/7 help from safety and health professionals.
Phone Plans
In many cases, someone with dementia won’t be able to use the phone at all.
If you’re unsure if your loved one will learn how to use this phone, you can choose a no-contract plan. You can activate the phone plan through the GreatCall website or by calling.
The plans are affordable without any cancellation fees.
Other Features:
1. Camera with flash
2. LED flashlight and reading magnifier
3. Long-lasting battery
4. Different charging options — charging dock, USB cable, and wall-charging adapter.
2. 2.4-inch Senior Cell Phone by UNIWA
| Dimensions | 4.72 x 2.2 x 0.57 inches |
| Screen Size | 2.31 inches |
| Weight | 0.44 lbs. |
| Connectivity | 2G; 3G; Bluetooth |
| Battery Capacity | 1400 mAh |
| Standby Time | 10 days |
| Band | GSM |
Now, this phone isn’t a fancy flip phone. It’s a simple phone, but it still made it to the list of the best mobile phones for dementia patients for many reasons.
Design
It has a 2.4-inch bright display for people with poor eyesight. The embossed keys are comfortable and make dialing easier. The keys have large, easy-to-read numbers
And as for the overall design, it’s has a nice shape with smooth edges. It’s also easy to grip and carry around.
On the right side of the phone, there’s a red button. This makes it quick to lock and unlock the keypad.
Audio
The UNIWA Senior Cell Phone has an FM radio. Your loved one can use this when they’re bored or want to pass time.
You know what they say: music has healing powers.
Safety
Before giving this cell phone to your relative, you can program the SOS button. You can find this at the back of the phone under the camera.
This is a long-press button that will direct an emergency call to any number programmed into it.
Network
It can support many 3G networks including mobile networks from other countries.
TAKE NOTE: You can’t use this phone with Verizon, Spring, and T-Mobile.
Other Features:
1. Chargeable using a cable or a dock
2. Battery lasts up to 200 hours on standby time
3. LED flashlight
3. Unlocked Senior Flip Cell Phone by Easyfone
| Dimensions | 3.94 x 1.97 x 0.79 inches |
| Screen Size | 2.4 inches |
| Weight | 0.21 lbs |
| Connectivity | 2G; 3G |
| Battery Capacity | 800 mAh |
| Band | WCDMA; GSM |
Now, let’s go back to another flip phone, Easyfone’s Unlocked Senior Flip Cell Phone. This senior phone has similar features to the Jitterbug Flip.
Design
Everything is big with this cell phone. The fonts, icons, and keypads are large to make it easier for seniors to use.
The rubberized keypad is the highlight of this phone. It makes typing more comfortable. It also has a backlight, so using it in places with dimmer lights won’t be a problem.
It also has two displays, one when opened and the other when flipped closed, that are big enough for a senior to see well.
Audio
It has a clear audio output that’s compatible with hearing aids — a great feature for someone with hearing problems.
Safety
It doesn’t have the specialized 5Star Emergency Button like the Jitterbug Flip.
However, it does have an SOS button that’s near the camera.
You can also program numbers 2 to 9 on the keypad as quick dial buttons for family members.
Supports Most 2G and 3G Networks
The term “unlocked” in its name means that you can use just about any mobile network you wish with this phone.
TAKE NOTE: It’s not compatible with T-Mobile/MetroPCS, Verizon, Sprint, Boost, and PagePlus.
Other Features:
1. Bright flashlight
2. Supports 16GB memory cards
3. FM radio and camera
4. Easy-to-use charging dock
Also read:
Helpful Android Apps for seniors
5 Great Android Apps for seniors
4 Best Amplified Cell Phones for People with Hearing Problems
4. ezTWO 3G Senior Cell Phone by Snapfone
| Dimensions | 4.67 x 2.26 x 0.6 inches |
| Screen Size | 1.8 in x 1.57 inches |
| Weight | 0.14 lbs |
| Connectivity | 3G; Bluetooth 3.0 |
| Battery Capacity | 1000 mAh |
| Standby Time | 90-120 hours |
| Band | GSM |
Another fantastic cellphone for seniors with dementia that you should consider is the ezTWO 3G from Snapfon.
Snapfon offers service plans, but the phone is unlocked! But before that, let’s first go through the other features.
Design
It has a similar build to the Senior Cell Phone by UNIWA. But, the keypads of the ezTWO 3D are also rubberized like EasyFon’s Flip Cell Phone.
It has buttons with distinct functions on both sides of the cell phone.
Audio
A highlight feature of this phone is the speaking keypad.
No, it’s not an AI that can respond to questions.
The speaking keypad would respond when the senior presses on the keys. If you think this is unnecessary, you can always disable it.
Another thing, this phone is Bluetooth-enabled. You can connect it with earphones or even a hearing aid via Bluetooth.
Safety
There’s a big SOS button behind the phone that connects to an sosPlus agent.
Pressing the button will redirect the senior to the emergency monitoring service. Then, the agent will call immediate family members to inform them about the emergency.
It’s an important feature that can save someone’s life.
Networks and Phone Plans
Snapfon created the ezTWO 3G as an unlocked cell phone. It can work with T-Mobile and AT&T mobile plans.
But Snapfon also offers its own service plan. If you’re undecided about it, you can sign up for a 30-day trial to try their services.
Other Features:
1. LED Flashlight
2. Low-battery notification
3. Menus are easy to navigate and understand
4. Emergency siren alert
5. Factory-Unlocked 2G Cell Phone by BLU
| Dimensions | 4.24 x 0.55 x 2.35 inches |
| Screen Size | 2.4 inches |
| Weight | 0.7 lbs. |
| Connectivity | 2G; Bluetooth |
| Battery Capacity | 1400 mAh |
| Standby Time | 625 hours |
| Band | GSM Quad band 2G |
If your loved one has mild dementia, he/she might be able to enjoy a phone with more features like this cell phone from BLU.
Design
The overall look of the phone is similar to the others on the list. It has a large screen display f 2.4 inches. It also has large buttons.
Audio
The 2G cell phone gives off loud sounds since it features a lot of entertainment features.
It has an MP3/MP4 player and an FM radio. You can send videos and songs to this phone via Bluetooth.
Safety
The SOS emergency button behind the phone is smaller compared to the other cell phones for seniors on the list.
Still, it does the job of connecting your loved one to emergency personnel like the police or fire department.
Network
3G sim cards will not work with this phone. Make sure that the sim card you’ll get is a 2G one.
It’s factory-unlocked making it compatible with many mobile networks.
Other Features:
1. Flashlight
2. Accomodates 2 sim cards
3. VGA camera
6. KC2 Cell Phone by KidsConnect
| Dimensions | 3.75 x 2.50 x 0.30 inches |
| Screen Size | 1.5 inches |
| Weight | 0.42 lbs |
| Connectivity | 4G LTE; WiFi |
| GPS Tracking | Available |
| Audio | Loudspeaker; Built-in mic |
You’re probably thinking: But this is a kid’s phone! Why would I give my grandma or grandpa a kid’s phone?
Based on customers’ feedback, this is one of the best cell phones for seniors with dementia.
Design
It’s not complicated to use. It only has four buttons with a touchscreen display.
You have three buttons for quick dialing and an SOS emergency button. You can program these buttons to call and send text messages to the programmed numbers.
Audio
Despite its simplicity, the sound quality and volume levels are decent enough for people with poor hearing.
Safety
The KC2 has a GPS tracking system. You can connect this to your smartphone. It also has real-time tracking and voice monitoring features.
Network
The phone’s package already includes a 4G sim card. It allows a stable connection from the KC2 to your smartphone.
Other Features:
1. Lanyard attachment
2. Keeps location history
7. Jethro SC490
If you are looking for a phone that can keep you alert and notifies every message, the Jethro SC490 can be the perfect one for you. With Jethro SC490, You can store up to 8 contacts on the speed dial. Internet connection is not necessary for this cell phone. You can only access the texting and talking feature over the phone. This phone can be a great one for seniors as they are easy to use. It is also affordable and long-lasting.
The Jethro SC490 contains big buttons and a well-lit display. This phone has a big screen and weighs up to 4.06 ounces. The features of this phone also include photo dialing, SOS button, flashlight, alarm clock, FM Radio, Calendar, and many more.
| Dimensions | 13.7 x 5.6 x 1.3 cm (5.4 x 2.2 x 0.5 in) |
| Screen Size | 2.8’’ |
| Weight | 4.06 ounces |
| Connectivity | 4G VOLTE/ Wifi calling |
| Battery Capacity | 5 hours |
| Brand | Jethro Trading Ltd. |
8. EasyFone
The EasyFone is a simple phone for seniors. This phone has big icons and fonts to view the screen easily. It has a high volume for easy hearing. With this phone, you can access the GPS as it contains a special SOS button. It has great features like FM radio, camera, photo speed dial, alarm, calculator, audio player, etc.
This phone is compatible with T-Mobile(Prepaid Plan), MetroPCS, Tello Mobile, Ultra Mobile, SpeedTalk, Simple Mobile, Mint Mobile, Red Pocket(GSMT), and any other carriers that use T-Mobile service. Sim card is not included in the phone.
| Dimensions | 1.2 x 1.2 x 1.2 cm |
| Screen Size | 2.4’’ |
| Weight | 85 grams |
| Connectivity | GSM, WCDMA, LTE |
| Operating System | EasyFone OS |
| Memory storage | 16GB |
9. Alcatel Go Flip 4 4056W 4GB (T-Mobile Only)
It comes with a screen size of 2.8 inches. It is more adequate for seniors to look at and operate the device easily. The buttons in the phone are designed in such a way that senior people can navigate with precision at a faster pace. This eliminates the need for an “auto-correct” or edit option.
The next thing to talk about is its design. The sleek, modern, with curved edges, provides an easy grip on the phone. So this eliminates the worry of losing the phone by mishandling.
Next is the camera. Since the phone is more basic, it does not mean you can’t have fun. This flip phone comes with 2MP wide-angle camera. Meaning taking all the photos that you want when you want until you fill your memory storage.
Speaking of memory, the phone comes with 4GB of internal storage for storing your memories, and if you want, you can transfer your photos and even songs from your phone to your computer with the help of a USB type-C cable.
Next is connectivity. The phone is unlocked, meaning you can use most carriers without issues. NOTE: For wireless, only T-Mobile supports.
A physical SIM tray is in the phone, and you can use various carriers like AT&T, Sprint, Cricket, etc.
The operating system is Android. Meaning all the options are smooth and fast.
The volume is loud, thanks to the well-built speakers, which can be heard within 10-15 meters.
Lastly, the power capacity. The phone comes with a Li-on battery with a 6 mAh capacity
The following are the physical characteristics of the phone:
| Dimension | 4.69 x 3.03 x 2.01 inches |
| Weight | 4.7 Ounces |
| Connectivity | Wifi |
| Color | Blue |
| In the box | Power adapter, USB cable, SIM ejector tool |
Interested in the Alcatel Go Flip cell phone for seniors? Click the link below to get it now!
GPS Tracking Devices
If a senior can’t learn how to use a cell phone, then try using a GPS tracker. You wouldn’t be able to call or message each other using this device.
Still, it could be a useful and life-saving tool if your loved one gets lost or wanders off. You can attach it to jackets, belts, or put it inside bags.
Here are three GPS tracking devices you can check out.
1. Amcrest 4G LTE GPS Tracker
2. Spytec GL300
3. Optimus 2.0
Suggested reads:
Top 3 Android Smartphones For Seniors in 2021
The Best 3 Amazon Kindle for Seniors in 2021
10 Useful Gadgets for Seniors (Must-Haves in 2021)
Features You Must Consider for the Best Cell Phones for Seniors with Dementia
Before going through the list of the best cell phones for seniors with dementia, here are the features you should consider when choosing a cell phone for your dementia-stricken relative.
A Few Easy-to-Understand Functions
A cell phone for someone with dementia should have few functions. Too many buttons or can make it too difficult to understand.
Big Numbers, Letters, and Buttons
Another thing to consider is the size of the buttons and characters.
Usually, the elderly have poor eyesight. A phone with big buttons, numbers, and letters will help them use it correctly.
Durable and Long-Lasting Battery
Some dementia patients go through episodes of wandering alone. This a highly dangerous situation.
If your loved one with dementia would get lost, having a phone with reliable battery life is a big help.
You can try calling the phone or use a GPS-tracking system to locate your relative.
Easy-Access SOS Button
The SOS button is another feature that could potentially save someone’s life.
A dementia patient can get confused would panic when they’re in danger. A separate SOS button will help him/her to call for help quickly.
Bright and Clear Display
A bright and clear display will help a senior with dementia to see names and numbers he/she wants to call or message.
A dark display may also add more stress to someone with this mental issue.
If you’re confident that your loved one can learn how to use a smartphone, try giving him/her a phablet. It has a larger display than most smartphones.
Frequently Asked Questions on Best Cell Phones for Seniors with Dementia
What carrier does Jitterbug phone use?
GreatCall, the creator of Jitterbug, tied up with Verizon Wireless for carrying the Jitterbug service.
Which is the best cell phone for seniors with dementia?
Jitterbug Flip is one of the most popular mobile phones for seniors with dementia. It has tons of features that are easy-to-use and beneficial to your loved one. The phone has a built-in 5Star emergency button making it one of the best cell phones for seniors with dementia. Press this button to get 24/7 help from safety and health professionals.
What are the features to consider while buying a phone for seniors with dementia?
Big text and buttons, long-lasting battery, easy access SOS-button, bright display, and an easy interface are some of the features to look out for in a phone for seniors with dementia.
What carrier does Jitterbug phone use?
The Jitterbug operates on GreatCall, a Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) that uses Verizon’s network.
Can I get a free phone if I’m on Social Security?
If you receive SSI benefits, then you automatically qualify for free phone service using the Lifeline assistance program.
Get the best cell phone for seniors with dementia
I hope you liked our guide on choosing the best cell phone for seniors with dementia. Among the given items in the list, Jitterbug Flip takes the honors, however, other phones also make great devices for seniors with dementia.
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