In today’s world we can’t imagine a life without computers and mobile phones. They have become an integral part of our existence. So, if this is a given fact then why should the aged be devoid of the technology? Finally, in the maddening race of developing newer and better technology; there are some cell phone companies you have spared some though on the seniors. Today we do have mobile phones designed especially for the old people.
If we research the market we will see, there are innumerable choices for different categories of people like the executives, businessmen, students and so on. But unfortunately, the choices for elderly people are very limited.
Senior people need mobile phones just like the other age groups do. It is often seen that old people cannot got out much because of health problems. In such cases, mobiles are their only window to communicate with people near and far. Therefore it is important to ensure, they are able to use their handsets properly.
Let’s see what actually defines an ideal elderly friendly mobile phone.
Such handsets are very basic and easy to use. With not too many features and no complicated menu settings. This is because with reduced grasping power and eye-sight it gets difficult to understand and use the new-age complicated phones.
How do we make a phone easy enough for them to use? Well, to start with; the keypad arrangement. The keypad should have large buttons, backlit keys, numbers embossed and bigger font size of the numbers and alphabets printed on them. Next, comes the display. A screen with small display may be difficult for them to see. Hence, it is important that the displays are big enough so that, they don’t have to stress their eyes much.
Other features like louder speakers, emergency calling, in-built flashlight etc. should also be present in such phones.
So to conclude, it can be said that senior friendly phones have proved to be a boon to the aged and therefore, more of such handsets should be produced by the manufacturers.
Martin Elmer is the editor of Telefoner til ældre. Here you can also read about Mobiltelefon Ældresagen.