Having a telephone at home is essential today, so much so that the offer is so extensive that it is not always easy to choose the most suitable model in each case. There are telephones of all types, for all tastes and pockets, with characteristics that make them pocket computers and that, in many cases, they become one more work tool.
However, when it comes to choosing a wireless phone for seniors, it is important to change your view of what is really necessary. Because in terms of usefulness, for an elderly person it is much more important that the telephone be easy to use, rather than an ultra modern and exaggeratedly delicate model.
However, the telephony market is so large today that it is possible to combine functionality with modernity. So that, older people do not have to give up using a modern and current appliance. It will only be necessary to take into account certain essential aspects that the device must contain in order to be practical for its intended use.
How to choose a phone for older people
Being older does not mean being less skilled or less modern. Anyone can use the most current phone, because knowledge and skills do not disappear with age. However, some aspects become more difficult to solve as the years go by.
Sight is one of the senses that loses the most with age, but having difficulty seeing should not be a limitation when using a telephone. Therefore, when looking for a phone for an elderly person, It is important that the finish has the following characteristics.
Fixed or mobile?
The landline telephone no longer has to be necessarily anchored to the 4 walls of a home. Regardless of whether a cordless phone is chosen or not. Some companies allow the possibility of installing a landline phone at home, but with features similar to those offered by a mobile phone.
This type of terminal has a design similar to that of the first mobile phones marketed at the user level a few years ago. With a size and weight greater than that of current smartphones, bigger buttons and very simple features.
Although it is a landline phone, with a fixed number, this phone works the same as the mobile network. That is, it can be taken outside the home without losing the signal, perfect for older people because they do not need a mobile phone to when they have to leave home.
Essential features
As for the most important features that the best wireless phones that will be used by an elderly person should offer, these are the essential ones:
- That has big keys: Whether you are looking for a landline phone or you need a basic mobile phone, it is essential that the chosen model has large keys. In this way, the user can easily operate the phone. The large keys are perfect for people with poor eyesight, as well as for those who have lost agility with their hands.
- That can be connected with the emergency service: The emergency button is the fastest system to contact emergencies when an elderly person is faced with any problem or need. Although most fixed terminals on the market have this option, it is very important to make sure that it is. You should also check with the telephone company if they have this service, since all current companies are not connected to home help services.
- Large screen: It is also very important that the phone has a good screen. Even that there is the possibility of choosing the size of the letters. In today's mobile phones it is possible to have this option, but not all terminals designed for the elderly and landlines.
- That the battery has enough capacity: One of the main problems of today's Smartphone and mobile phones is that they have so many features that inevitably the use of the battery is significantly reduced. The phone is constantly working, even if you are not using it. Networks, updates and internet services consume battery even when the phone is in sleep mode. This is not very functional for the elderly, since having to charge the phone daily can be somewhat cumbersome and impractical for those who just need a phone.
- Make it resistant: Look for a phone with weight, that can be handled well and that is not very delicate. A very delicate design can be very decorative and beautiful, but impractical for older people.
What if it is a mobile phone?
Many older people are attracted to new technologies and are increasingly encouraged to use social networks or instant messaging such as WhatsApp. This is great because it allows people to stay connected, receive photos instantly, and even make video calls to be able to see people who are not around on a day-to-day basis.
For everyone, the option of using a mobile phone is available, with an internet connection and with the most basic features that an older person may require. Fortunately, companies increasingly take older people into account and when creating new designs, they design terminals adapted to everyone's needs.
That is, in the market you can find current mobile phones, with an internet connection and with the essential characteristics that make a phone an appropriate device for all ages. And what should a mobile phone have to be suitable for an older person?
- A good screen
- Call function
- Message function
- Emergency button.
In this case, it connects with those people who are previously determined. Mobile phones do not connect to telecare services, but with the push of a single button you can contact the 5 chosen contacts.
In any case, if you choose a mobile phone for an elderly person, you will have to spend some time teaching them how to use it correctly. Whether it is a more or less current model, with more or less features, a person who has never owned a mobile phone may feel overwhelmed faced with such a situation.
The best thing in these cases is to start with the most basic functions, such as making and receiving calls, unlocking the phone and opening the messaging service. If it is a Smartphone, it is recommended that you remove some settings, such as automatic updates or installation of applications. Thus, you'll avoid phone bill surprises, at least while the person gets used to their new phone.