As we grow older, our motor skills may decrease, but this doesn’t prevent many seniors from launching new careers or hobbies and enjoying rich social lives.
However, aging can change our priorities and abilities, and many seniors who like to stay in touch with friends and family may want to consider this when purchasing new phones.
Here are some tips to help you choose senior-friendly phones.
Home Phones
A loss of nearsighted vision is normal with age, so when choosing a landline home phone, it makes sense to choose one with a large display and large buttons.
Large buttons are not only easy to read, but are more comfortable for individuals experiencing loss of manual dexterity or arthritis. For example, the Arthritis Foundation recently recognized a phone from Panasonic, the cordless KX-TG6592, for ease of use due to larger-than-usual buttons.
And factor-in hearing loss, as well. Because everyone hears differently, a phone that only amplifies sound may not always be the answer. The loudest phones aren’t always the clearest sounding.
Consider amplified phones with tone controls, such as those in the Panasonic KX-TG6590 series that have tone equalizers that maximize clarity and accommodate for hearing loss by allowing the user to control the bass, mid-range and treble tones in a caller’s voice. And look for phones with talking caller ID and answering systems that enable seniors to screen callers without getting up.
To compare home phone features for you or your loved one, visit http://www.panasonic.com/phonestuff.
Cell Phones
Some people nix cameras or text messaging on phones for seniors, claiming they’re unnecessary complications. However, proud grandparents will gladly learn to work phone cameras to show off pictures of grandkids. And for seniors on fixed budgets, text messaging is great for relaying short, necessary messages to family and friends without using precious minutes.
Web capability is often not a necessity for seniors, and touchscreens can be a manual dexterity jump. But for the adamant, a palm device with a stylus is a great compromise. Also, when choosing a phone and plan, consider what the rest of the family uses, as many companies offer free minutes to individuals on the same service.
And remember the little things. Some keypad locks and chargers are easier to use, particularly for someone with arthritis. And size makes a difference. You may have to trade-off between a big screen and big buttons, based on needs, but weight is crucial. Nobody should feel weighed down by a cell phone.
“Whether you’re opting for a cell phone or landline connection, or both, it’s important to choose a phone with features that support your lifestyle and communication habits,” says Bill Taylor, President of Panasonic System Networks Company of America.
With a little effort, you can find phones that fit your unique needs.
Follow Us!