The Choice review per others references is also useful. All four recommended models are 4G and have long feature lists. The feature lists are also useful guides to assessing any product not reviewed.
We found with our dad that a flip phone worked best (screen size and greater button spacing). His eye sight was reasonable, and hand dexterity ok. A touch screen would be an impossible ask for our mum though. We also expect that the virtual world of multiple changing screens of icons is also a challenge for some.
The flip phone can solve the problem of needing to manage lock unlock or accidental operation when in a bag or pocket. My iPhone when newish twice called 000 for no apparent reason other than the emergency call feature on the unlock screen. The on off power or lock buttons need to be easy to operate with old hands but not so easy to accidentally operate. My old Samsung flip phone was easy to set up to answer when opened, hang up when closed, had a simple two button green to call or red to hang up, and C to clear or delete a digit.
Three of the four Choice recommended Seniors mobiles are touch screen phones. Only one is a flip.
Whether it’s cost, resistance to change or other factors our more life experienced seniors with a few exceptions prefer a button phone. Those in their 70’s have made the transition being adept by our standard as users of Smart Phone technology.
