Easy communication is crucial to our everyday lives. We rely on our phones to get where we want to go, keep in touch with our loved ones, and maybe even seek help in an emergency. However, modern technology can be overwhelming for some senior people.
That’s where home phones for seniors come into play. Having quick and easy access to uncomplicated devices can enable them to stay connected and engaged in society – not to mention they can be the difference between life and death in some situations.
When selecting a home phone for older adults, it’s crucial to consider its purpose. Cordless phones are perfect for more mobile individuals, while voice-activated devices are suitable for those who are less. Amplified home phones are ideal for people with hearing impairments, and picture phones, which display contact images on each button, are highly beneficial for individuals with cognitive issues. Fortunately, there’s no shortage of options.
Best Landline Phones for Seniors in 2024
Future-Call FC-0613 Picture Care Phone
Features Overview |
Future Call FC-0613 |
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Telephone Type | Corded |
Caller ID | |
One-Touch memory buttons | 10 buttons |
Picture buttons | |
Adjustable ring volume | |
Maximum ring volume | 40 dB |
Power source | Landline |
Hearing aid compatible | |
911 key |
In addition, the Future Call phone is hearing-aid compatible, with an adjustable volume of up to 40 dB. With bright LEDs that light up when a call comes in, the owner can easily see the phone ringing from afar. This model also has a specific button for speed-dialing 911, which remains available even during power outages or if the unit is unplugged.
JeKaVis J-P47 Corded Home Phone with Caller ID
Features Overview |
JeKaVis J-P47 |
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Telephone Type | Corded |
Caller ID | |
One-Touch memory buttons | |
Picture buttons | |
Adjustable ring volume | |
Maximum ring volume | 40 dB |
Power source | Outlet |
Hearing aid compatible | |
911 key |
This phone has one-touch speed dial functionality with three picture buttons and an adjustable volume capability of up to 40 dB. Regarding accessibility, not only is JeKavis compatible with hearing aids, but its buttons also light up when the handset is picked up or the speakerphone button is pressed. This convenient characteristic allows seniors to use the phone at night even when the lights are out.
Another thoughtful feature is the LCD screen, which contains essential information like time, date, week, temperature, and caller ID. Plus, users can customize their ringtone and even choose to turn off the ringer.
RCA 1123-1WTGA Amplified Corded Phone
Features Overview |
RCA 1123-1WTGA |
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Telephone Type | Corded |
Caller ID | |
One-Touch memory buttons | 4 buttons |
Picture buttons | |
Adjustable ring volume | |
Maximum ring volume | 40 dB |
Power source | Corded |
Hearing aid compatible | |
911 key |
The RCA is extremely easy to set up and handily flashes with any incoming calls. Additionally, it can be effortlessly desk or wall mounted. Since it’s corded, this phone is particularly well-suited for someone who inhabits a smaller space.
This is an amplified model, meaning the audio volume level can be adjusted on the handset and the base station. The audio range goes as far as 20 dB and is compatible with hearing aids, plus its ring volume goes up to 40 dB. Unfortunately, though, it doesn’t feature a 911 speed-dial key, so users either have to dial the number manually or use one of the memory buttons for emergencies.
Easyfone T6 4G Cell Phone
Features Overview |
Easyfone T6 4G Cell Phone |
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Telephone Type | Cordless |
Caller ID | |
One-Touch memory buttons | |
Picture buttons | |
Adjustable ring volume | |
Maximum ring volume | 40 dB |
Power source | Batteries |
Hearing aid compatible | |
911 key |
It features four large picture buttons and an additional SOS key that can be pressed to automatically dial five emergency contacts on a loop until they answer the call. Better yet, its simple operating system and glare-free display are easy on the eyes and mind.
But there’s more. The Easyfone is also ideal for the hearing impaired, including a powerful speaker with a HAC function. Plus, as a nice final touch, its 1050mAh battery can last over 72 hours.
The company even mentions a few affordable cell phone plans that work seamlessly with its product. It’s worth mentioning that customers can keep their existing number for convenience.
VTech SN5127 Amplified Cordless Phone
Features Overview |
Vtech SN5127 |
---|---|
Telephone Type | Cordless |
Caller ID | |
One-Touch memory buttons | |
Picture buttons | |
Adjustable ring volume | |
Maximum ring volume | 90 dB |
Power source | Batteries |
Hearing aid compatible | |
911 key |
The VTech features a digital answering system that can playback messages at a slow pace. Setting it up is smooth sailing due to a voice guide tool, which walks users and caregivers through the entire process.
This battery-powered model is equipped with oversized keys, audible caller ID, picture buttons, and a simple display screen. Even the ringer itself is visual, lighting up for every call that comes in. Moreover, users can press the one-touch SOS button to quickly call for help.
What To Look for in a Home Phone for an Older Adult
Landline phones for seniors need to address the physical and cognitive challenges that may make it hard for the elderly to use smartphones. As such, when selecting a device, a senior or their caregiver needs to put usability and accessibility first, reflected in features like:
- Large, widely spaced keys on backlit keypads.
- Simple interface with one-function buttons.
- One-touch emergency services button.
- High sound quality and adjustable volume.
- Hands-free speakers.
- If cordless, long battery life or docking stations for easy charging.
- Picture buttons.
- Additional handsets for other rooms.
Setting up the phone needs to be easy, so clear and simple instructions are a must. For hearing-impaired seniors, it’s essential to look for devices that support T-coil-enabled hearing aids or cochlear implants.
Finally, it’s worth considering any warranties the manufacturer or retailer provides in case the telephone doesn’t function as expected. Free shipping can be another deciding factor for seniors with mobility limitations who prefer may home delivery.
Corded vs Cordless Phones: Which One is Best for Seniors
Long are the days when people were forced to sit in a specific spot if they wanted to make a call. Today, most landline phones can be used around the home with minimal limitations.
The best cordless phones provide flexibility and convenience for seniors, especially those with mobility issues. These devices often have accessible designs with large buttons, backlit displays, and amplification options, catering to the needs of people with visual or hearing difficulties.
Wireless phone systems usually offer additional handsets that can be placed throughout the house, as well. However, these phones are battery dependent and need regular charging. They may also be lost once they run out of charge and so are not ideal for individuals with memory impairment, such as Alzheimer’s.
Additionally, their limited signal range can worsen the quality of calls if users move too far from the base unit. So seniors and caregivers seeking more reliability may want to stick with a corded telephone.
Still, it’s worth considering that a corded phone still needs to be used reasonably close to its base unit. While this may be perfect for a senior living in a care facility, this may not be appropriate for someone living alone at home, especially in a big house. If an emergency was to happen in a room without a phone, the senior may find it challenging to seek help.
Amplified Phones for the Hearing Impaired
Communicating over the phone can be difficult for seniors with hearing difficulties. Amplified phones remedy this in numerous ways, such as with devices that can enhance the caller’s voice by up to 20 decibels. A loud ring and flashing lights also help seniors notice incoming calls.
Increasing the volume isn’t the only strength in an amplified phone’s arsenal. Like other products on the market, these devices boast larger buttons and numbers for better visibility, instant emergency calling, bigger display screens, speed dial, and the ability to alter buttons to include a loved one’s photo. Amplified home phones come in both wired and cordless forms.
If the hearing-impaired person lives in a large home, they should consider installing standalone amplifiers in multiple rooms. They connect to the landline just like the phone and emit a loud noise every time there is a call. They work best when stationed in regularly occupied rooms, such as the bedroom or kitchen.
Smartphones vs Home Phones for Seniors
Family members and caregivers may reason that a smartphone is a superior option for seniors. They’re small, lightweight, and serve a wide variety of purposes. Their portability can easily suit the lifestyles of active people who spend a lot of time outdoors.
It’s far easier to adjust the audio level on a smartphone, not to mention the many options for vibration, lights, and ringtones to help attract attention to a call. App stores mean that smartphones can end up being a constant source of entertainment and stimulation.
Additionally, they offer many health apps that help keep the elderly engaged and active, alongside the various medical alert app options currently on the market.
On the downside, smartphones require a certain level of tech know-how. Seniors may lose their patience while fiddling with the sensitive touchscreen or break something accidentally, such as deleting their contacts. In the end, they may well give up on the ‘fancy’ device and return to the tried-and-true landline phone.
Emergency Calling
Regardless of the type of phone, relying only on these devices may not always be enough. Even with home phones for seniors equipped with 911 on speed dial, being in a state to effectively explain a situation to an operator is not guaranteed. Furthermore, there are instances where seniors may be unable to reach the phone, such as by losing consciousness or being injured.
However, medical alert systems can help:
- Their base stations are compatible with landlines, automatically calling monitoring centers when the wearable button is pressed.
- Care agents have access to customers’ medical files to inform paramedics quickly.
- Medical alert hubs are equipped with enhanced two-way communication, and agents will stay on the line until help arrives to provide reassurance.
- The devices’ wearability helps users seek help no matter the setting.
Additionally, most medical alert system providers offer pendants that provide fall detection. If these finely tuned devices detect a collapse, they automatically send a distress signal without any manual input, ensuring that help promptly arrives.
Everyone can have peace of mind using such advanced technology, safe in the knowledge that help is always available at the mere press of a button.
Best Medical Alert Systems of 2024
Rank | Company | Info | Visit |
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Editor's Choice 2024 |
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2 |
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3 |
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