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Best Cell Phones for Visually Impaired Seniors
Standard cell phones and devices can pose major challenges for seniors, especially if they are also visually impaired. Tiny print, a lack of tactile keypads, and complicated menu systems leave users struggling to communicate with friends and family. This is not only a quality-of-life issue but also a safety hazard.
That’s why we’ve decided to do the research for you and highlight the top 5 best cell phones for visually impaired seniors. From phones with tactile keyboards to accessibility features such as voice commands and braille keyboards, we found the finest in the industry for you to choose from!
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Trusted Company Reviews #1 Pick for 2024
- Tablet style
- Free with the purchase of a plan
- No scammers or robocalls
Why we love it 💖
The GrandPad tablet comes in first in our list of the best cell phones for visually impaired seniors. It stands out due to its size, ease of use, and outstanding features.
Our Highest Rated Cell Phones for Visually Impaired Seniors Companies
- Voice and video calls
- Photo sharing
- Internet browsing
- 24/7 customer support
- Built-in 911 emergency calling
- Grandi virtual companion
- Assistive access mode to improve interface
- VoiceOver control to hear spoken descriptions of what’s on the screen
- Text reader to hear what you’re typing
- Easy talk-to-text feature
- Access to all Appstore Apps
- Easily connect to Apple watch for additional features such as fall detection
- Tactile keyboard
- Voice guide speaks everything that is on the screen
- Users can use voice commands to place calls, send texts, and more
- Talking keypad
- Dedicated SOS button to call emergency contacts
- Multiple languages and voices are available
- Remote monitoring allows emergency contact to see the user's location
- One touch dialing
- Video calling
- Ability to block calls from all unknown numbers
- Ability to have calls answered immediately and go to speaker
- RAZ Emergency services route calls to a dispatch agent
- Tactile keyboard
- Voice commands
- Lively Rides to schedule a Lyft ride
- 24/7 Urgent Response
- Care advocates assist with health and well-being planning
- Nurse on-call available 24/7
Best Cell Phones For Visually Impaired Seniors Comparison
| Grandpad | Apple iphone 15 Pro Max | Minivision 2+ | RAZ Memory Cell | Jitterbug Flip2 | |
| Cost | Free with purchase of a plan | As low as $0.00 down and $38.88/month or $999 | $329.00 | $349.00 | $79.99 |
| Plan | Monthly plans as low as $40/month. | Plans available through AT&T, Verizon, T-mobile and more | Unlocked 4G VoLTE phone confirmed to work on AT&T, T-Mobile, and compatible GSM networks such as MINT Mobile, Simple Mobile, Red Pocket Mobile, Cricket Wireless, Straight Talk, and Metro by T-Mobile. | Unlocked and compatible with all major wireless providers in the U.S. and Canada: US: Verizon, AT&T, Consumer Cellular, T-Mobile, Cricket Wireless, Mint Mobile, Affinity Cellular, Straight Talk, Red Pocket Mobile, TracFone, and more. | Plans cost $19.99/month-$49.99/month and include unlimited talk and text |
| OS | Android | Apple | Independent | Android | Android |
| Size | 8 inches (measured diagonally) | 6.29 inch x 3.02 inch | 4.92 x 2.36 x 0.53 inch | 6.45 inch x 2.95 inch | 3.2 inch x 1.44 inch |
| Voice Commands | No | Yes | Yes | No | Yes |
| Keyboard Type | Touchscreen | Touchscreen | Tactile | Touchscreen | Tactile |
| Braille Keyboard | No | Yes | No | No | No |
| Rating | 9.7 | 9.6 | 9.4 | 9.3 | 9.2 |
What Are Cell Phones For Visually Impaired Seniors?
Cell phones for visually impaired seniors are devices developed with accessibility in mind. Some feature tactile keyboards and buttons, while others have built-in braille keyboards, screen readers, and voice command technology. Most are equipped with all the standard features of other phones, meaning you won’t have to compromise on quality and style.
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Cell Phones For Visually Impaired Seniors: Features and Considerations
When shopping for a new device for a visually impaired senior, there are some considerations to keep in mind.
First, how comfortable is the user with technology? Some devices, such as the Minivision 2+, require less technological understanding than their counterparts. Others are highly technical and are best for an experienced user.
Secondly, what level of visual impairment does the user have? Those who are profoundly blind will benefit from different features than those with nearsightedness. Can the user see the screen? Will larger font sizes be helpful? Does the user require a braille keyboard, screen reader, or voice commands?
Is safety a consideration? There are a plethora of safety options available. The GrandPad offers built-in 911 calling and restrictions for incoming calls, while other devices, such as the RAZ Memory Cell, offer fully remote location monitoring for the user’s emergency contact. The Jitterbug Flip2 even offers a transportation scheduling feature, so users will never be left without a ride home.
What is the user’s budget? Cell phones for visually impaired seniors can vary widely in price. Additionally, monthly fees associated with most devices can also vary. Fortunately, free devices are available with the purchase of their correlating monthly plan to fit every budget.
How to Choose a Cell Phone For Visually Impaired Seniors
When choosing a cell phone for a visually impaired senior, start with our top 5 list. We’ve researched and listed the top 5 in the industry making it easy for you to find the phone that’ll work best for you!
Related Article: The Best Medical Alert Systems With an Emergency Alert Button
GrandPad
Best Overall
Trusted Company Reviews Rating Score for company name: 9.7
The Grandpad easily tops our list of the best cell phones for visually impaired seniors. Its large screen, easy-to-use interface, video calling, and solid safety features make it the most well-rounded phone we’ve found. Even more exciting is that it’s free with the purchase of a monthly plan starting as low as $40/month. AARP members can even get an additional discount of $2/monthly.
About
Grandpad is an American company based in Minnesota. It has been around since 2014 and has a mission to help seniors live without feeling isolated or lonely by connecting them with their loved ones. The Grandpad tablet is its sole product and focus, with all its services aimed at improving its users’ experience.
Features and Benefits
- Tablet style
- Free with purchase of a plan
- No scammers or robocalls
- Voice and video calls
- Photo sharing
- Internet browsing
- 24/7 customer support
- Built-in 911 emergency calling
- Grandi virtual companion
Why we Chose
We chose GrandPad as the number one option on our list of the best cell phones for visually impaired seniors because it is clearly designed with seniors in mind. The tablet-style phone is easy to hold, and its large screen size makes the interface easier to see than a standard cell phone.
We also love that users can block calls from unknown numbers, protecting seniors from the frustrations and dangers of robocalls and scammers. The 24/7 customer support means questions can always be answered quickly, and the virtual companion, Grandie, is available at all times to help with finding information or entertainment.
Overall, the GrandPad is a well-rounded, easy-to-use, and affordable tablet.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Free with subscription
- Wireless charging
- Blocked robocalls
- 24/7 support
- Grandi virtual companion
- Voice and video calls
- Internet browsing
- Games
- Built-in 911 calling
Cons
- Touchscreen
- Large size
- Limited apps available
- No voice commands
| Average Cost | Plan | Keyboard Type |
| Free with the purchase of a monthly plan | Monthly plans as low as $40/month | Touchscreen |
Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max
Best for Tech Savvy Users
Trusted Company Reviews Rating Score for company name: 9.6
The Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max is a clear leader in cell phones overall. Its many options, including assistive access and talk-to-text features, make it a wonderful choice for visually impaired seniors. However, there is a steep learning curve for those without tech experience, making this the best option for those who are more tech-savvy.
About
Apple is a leader in the cell phone industry, with standout devices and nationwide availability. Their products are easily paired with Bluetooth-capable devices and offer location sharing for safety and peace of mind.
Features and Benefits
- Assistive access mode to improve interface
- VoiceOver control to hear spoken descriptions of what’s on the screen
- Text reader to hear what you’re typing
- Easy talk-to-text feature
- Face ID to access phone and apps
- Color adjustments for better visualization
- Dark mode provides visual contrast
- Access to all Appstore Apps
- Easily connect to Apple watch for additional features such as fall detection
Why we Chose
We chose the Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max due to its abundance of customizations and options. The ability to share locations with friends and family, connect with AAA for roadside assistance, even without wifi or cellular service, make emergency SOS calls, and connect with an Apple watch for fall detection makes it a clear leader in safety.
Furthermore, the assistive access, screen customization, and voice command options make it easy to use, even for those with difficulty seeing the screen.
The iPhone 15 Pro Max and its accessible features make top-tier technology accessible to all.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Modern
- All AppStore apps available
- Bluetooth capabilities
- Pair additional products with the phone
- GPS navigation
- Location sharing with friends and family
- Connects to AAA for roadside assistance
- iPhone crash detection calls 911 if a vehicle accident is detected
Cons
- Steep learning curve for seniors who have little experience
- Touchscreen
- Price point
| Average Cost | Plan | Keyboard Type |
| As low as $0.00 down and $38.88/month or $999 | Plans available through AT&T, Verizon, T-mobile and more | Touchscreen |
RAZ Minivision 2+
Best Option with a Tactile Keyboard
Trusted Company Reviews Rating Score for company name: 9.4
The Minivision 2+ by Raz Mobility is a fantastic cell phone for seniors with visual impairment. The tactile keyboard with large buttons lends itself to ease of use, yet its simplicity doesn’t compromise on features. Users can make phone calls, send text messages, and even enter contacts via voice commands. The talking keypad supports multiple languages, and the dedicated SOS button ensures that help is just a press of a button away.
About
RAZ Mobility is a leader in accessible technology. It offers various devices for consumers for whom standard technology may be challenging, all focused on quality technology and service.
Features and Benefits
- Tactile keyboard
- Voice guide speaks everything that is on the screen
- Voice commands can be used to place calls, send texts, and more
- Talking keypad
- Dedicated SOS button to call emergency contacts
- Multiple languages and voices are available
Why we Chose
We chose the Minivision 2+ for its simplicity and focus on visual impairment. The talking, tactile keyboard makes dialing and navigating the menu a cinch, while voice guidance provides an alternative option for placing calls and sending texts. The interface is simple and easy to use, with customization options that include font size and display colors.
The SOS button triggers a call to emergency contacts when help is needed, and the Where Am I feature identifies the user’s current location by address.
Overall, this phone is small but mighty. Its compact size houses a long list of accessibility features.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Tactile keyboard
- Voice guidance
- Money & color identifiers included
- Where Am I feature to identify the user’s location by address
- Talking keypad
- Dedicated SOS button to call emergency contacts
- Multiple languages and voices are available
Cons
- Price point
- Need to shop for a plan
- Small size
| Average Cost | Plan | Keyboard Type |
| $329.00 | Unlocked 4G VoLTE phone confirmed to work on AT&T, T-Mobile, and compatible GSM networks such as MINT Mobile, Simple Mobile, Red Pocket Mobile, Cricket Wireless, Straight Talk, and Metro by T-Mobile. | Tactile |
RAZ Memory Cell
Best Remote Monitoring
Trusted Company Reviews Rating Score for company name: 9.3
The RAZ Memory Cell from RAZ Mobility stands out for its video calling and remote management app. This phone allows a trusted caregiver to determine and lock multiple settings on the phone, ensuring it always remains functional. They can also restrict calls from anyone not listed on the contact list and have calls answered automatically and go to speaker, giving instant access to the user. Location tracking and remote status checks also inform the caregiver of where the user is and if their phone is turned on or off.
RAZ emergency services are available by subscription to help during an emergency. They’ll answer the user’s emergency calls, help determine and dispatch the appropriate type of assistance, and notify up to 3 emergency contacts that assistance is needed.
About
The RAZ Memory Cell is the second phone on our list from RAZ Mobility, a clear leader in the accessibility industry. While they have a long list of available devices, the RAZ Memory Cell stands out as the easiest to monitor remotely for caregivers who cannot always be present at the user’s side.
Features and Benefits
- Remote monitoring allows emergency contact to see user location
- One touch dialing
- Video calling
- Ability to block calls from all unknown numbers
- Ability to have calls answered immediately and go to speaker
- RAZ Emergency services route calls to a dispatch agent
Why we Chose
We chose the RAZ Memory Cell because of its remote monitoring functionality. Caregivers from far away can still manage the user’s cell experience and ensure they never struggle to make a call. The interface is designed to be simple and easy to see, while the caregiver can lock settings to ensure that nothing is inadvertently changed. The automatic answer and speaker settings guarantee that the user will never miss a call from a loved one, and the video call feature provides a fun way to stay connected.
Overall, this phone is ideal for visually impaired seniors and those with limited tech experience.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- RAZ Care app allows for remote monitoring by emergency contact
- Caregiver can disable settings so they remain the same
- Automatic speaker mode can assist the user in always hearing the call
- Caregiver can set calls to be answered automatically
- 911 button
- RAZ emergency services routes call to a dispatch agent
- RAZ alert notifies up to 3 emergency contacts if 911 is called
- Location tracking available
- Caregiver can remotely check the phone’s on/off status
Cons
- Need to shop for a plan
- Touchscreen
| Average Cost | Plan | Keyboard Type |
| $349.00 | Phone is unlocked and compatible with all major wireless providers in the U.S. and Canada: US: Verizon, AT&T, Consumer Cellular, T-Mobile, Cricket Wireless, Mint Mobile, Affinity Cellular, Straight Talk, Red Pocket Mobile, TracFone, and more. | Touchscreen |
Lively Jitterbug Flip2
Best Care Benefits
Trusted Company Reviews Rating Score for company name: 9.2
The Jitterbug Flip2 is the standout flip phone on our list of the best cell phones for visually impaired seniors. The simple style may be more familiar to some users with little technology experience but without compromising features and benefits.
The affordable plans include unlimited talk and text and access to Lively Rides for assistance with scheduling transportation, 24/7 Urgent Response for assistance during an emergency, Care Advocates for help with health and well-being planning, and a Nurse on-call program for receiving medical advice.
About
The Jitterbug Flip2 is available through Lively, a company connected through the Verizon Wireless network. Lively offers several phone and accessory options for seniors and keeps plans and pricing affordable. In addition, it offers a long list of benefits to users that aren’t commonly seen with other carriers.
Features and Benefits
- Tactile keyboard
- Voice commands
- Lively Rides to schedule a Lyft ride
- 24/7 Urgent Response
- Care advocates assist with health and well-being planning
- Nurse on-call available 24/7
- Family share plans available
- Fall Detection
Why we Chose
We chose the Jitterbug Flip2 because of its simplicity and the plan’s inclusion of so many excellent benefits. Fall detection, Nurse On-Call services, Lively rides, 24/7 Urgent Response, and Care Advocates are benefits you won’t likely find with other carriers. Furthermore, the Lively Link App allows friends and family to receive alerts during an emergency, providing peace of mind to those who love the user the most.
Having such a wide array of benefits available for such an affordable price earns this phone a solid place on our list of the best cell phones for visually impaired seniors.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Flip-style phone may be more familiar to some users
- Tactile keyboard
- Voice commands
- Backlit keypad is easy to see
- List-based menu provides simple navigation
- Powerful speakerphone
- Lively Rides service schedules transportation
- 24/7 Urgent response button for assistance
- Care advocacy program assists with health and well-being planning
- Nurse on-call service is available for medical advice
Cons
- No internet browsing
- No family plans
| Average Cost | Plan | Keyboard Type |
| $79.99 | Plans cost $19.99/month-$49.99/month and include unlimited talk and text | Tactile |
Frequently Asked Questions
These are some of the most common questions surrounding the best cell phones for visually impaired seniors.
Determining the best cell phone for your loved one can be a challenge. Countless options and benefits are available, depending on which phone you choose. That’s why we’ve provided this comprehensive review outlining our top 5 choices. You’ll find high and low-tech options within our list, each with its own perks, making choosing your favorite a cinch!
While our review focused heavily on cell phones for the visually impaired, many would also benefit the hearing impaired. The RAZ Memory Cell, for instance, allows for automatic answering in automatic speaker mode, ensuring that your loved one will never miss a call.
Our top choice for the best cell phone for the visually impaired is the GrandPad. However, if you’re looking for additional options or features, check out the others on our list!
Yes, AT&T does have cell phones for seniors. The iPhone 15 Pro Max is ideal for tech-savvy seniors. If you’re looking for something easier to use, several phones on our list, including the Minivision 2+, can be purchased independently and serviced through AT&T.
The best cell phone plan for seniors will depend on your device choice. However, it’s important to shop around, as companies such as AT&T, Verizon, and Mint Mobile vary widely in service and price point.
Cell phones can be expensive, and plans can really add to the cost. However, there are options available that are quite affordable. The GrandPad tablet is free with the purchase of a monthly plan, while the Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max is free with a monthly plan and a $38.88 monthly payment. Choosing the best deal depends on what is within the senior’s budget and which device features the most desirable options.
Our evaluation criteria for the best cell phones for visually impaired seniors:
Screen Display and Readability: Assess the clarity, size, and resolution of the screen. High contrast modes and the ability to adjust text size and color are crucial for visibility. 20%
Voice Recognition and Control: Evaluate the effectiveness of voice command features. Good voice recognition software can greatly enhance the usability of a phone for someone with visual impairments. 15%
Tactile Buttons vs. Touchscreen: Determine whether the phone has tactile buttons or a touchscreen with haptic feedback. Tactile buttons can be easier for some visually impaired users to navigate. 10%
Accessibility Features: Look for built-in accessibility options such as screen readers, text-to-speech, magnification tools, and high-contrast visual interfaces. 15%
Ease of Use: Consider the overall user interface and navigation. The phone should have a simple, intuitive layout that makes it easy for seniors to understand and use. 10%
Audio Output: Check the quality of the speakers and the audio output. Clear, loud audio is necessary for voice commands and audible cues. 10%
Battery Life: Evaluate the battery life of the phone. A longer battery life is beneficial for seniors who may forget to charge their device frequently. 5%
Durable Design: The phone should be sturdy enough to handle drops or rough treatment, potentially with a non-slip grip or a rugged case. 8%
Customer Support and Service: Ensure there is reliable customer support available. This includes accessible technical support that can assist visually impaired users effectively. 5%
Editorial Points: Our research team withheld several points during evaluations and awarded them to companies or products exhibiting traits over and above the competition. 2%
Image Sources: grandpad.net – apple.com – raxmobility.com – lively.com