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Best Home Phones for Seniors: 8 Simple Landline Phone Options

Best Home Phones for Seniors: 8 Simple Landline Phone Options

To find the ideal home phone as a senior, choose corded landlines with ultra-loud ringers, big well-lit buttons, adjustable amplified volumes, easy interfaces like photo memory dialing for reliability even during outages. Simple cordless phones with battery backup and these features are another viable option.
Scott Grant, CSA®, SHSS®
Last Updated:
Best Home Phone Options For Seniors
This post may contain affiliate links. Please read my Income Disclosure.
Best Home Phone Options For Seniors

Finding the perfect phone can be frustrating as you deal with small buttons, loud rings, and confusing menus. As a Certified Senior Advisor, I have helped thousands find the right phones to live comfortably at home for over seven years now.

  • I recommend corded phones with super loud ringers up to 100dB that ensure calls are heard.
  • Look for big backlit buttons and keypads too. 
  • Photo memory dial buttons are great phone options for people with dementia or memory issues.
  • Be sure to get adjustable amplified volumes up to 40dB and tone settings to accommodate hearing aids or loss. Also, get visual ring indicators with flashing lights.
  • Corded phones with reliability even in outages provide peace of mind. But cordless phones allow mobility with handsets.
  • Set up speed dials with pictures of loved ones or caregivers for emergencies. Use accessories like phone mounts and headsets.

This guide shares my top recommendations on models, features, and setups that make phones senior-friendly. Discover what works so you can confidently and comfortably live life on your terms.

Finally! A Hands-on Guide to Phones for Seniors and the Elderly

Comparing the Top Landline Phones for Seniors

Phone ModelTypeVisual FeaturesHearing FeaturesEase of Use FeaturesConvenience Features
Photo Phone w/ Hands-Free Dialing

SMPL Memory Phone

from $49.99
CordedLarge buttons, Large text, Flashing visual ring indicatorAdjustable amplified sound up to 85 dB, Hearing aid compatiblePhoto memory dial buttons, Simple interface, SpeakerphoneReliable landline operation even in power outages, Wall mountable
Panasonic Cordless Phone System, Expandable Home Phone with Call Blocking, Bilingual Caller ID and High-Contrast Display, 1 Handset - KX-TGD610B (Black)

Panasonic KX-TGD610B

from $34.99
CordlessLarge backlit display with big text, Bold buttons6 level adjustable ringer volume, Noise reduction technologySpeed dial, Handset locator, SpeakerphoneCall blocking button, Caller ID display
Panasonic Amplified Cordless Phone KX-TGM420W with Enhanced Noise Reduction and Digital Answering Machine - 1 Handset (White)

Panasonic KX-TGM420W

from $104.99
CordlessLarge backlit buttons and display, Visual ring indicator100dB ringer, Adjustable volumes up to 40dB, Slow Talk featureSpeakerphone, Memory dial keysBuilt-in answering machine, Talking caller ID and confirmation
VTech - Amplified Corded/Cordless Answering System with Big Buttons Display - White

VTech SN5147

from $21.25
Cordless/ Corded CombinationLarge backlit buttons on corded base90dB ringer, 50dB audio boost on handsetPhoto memory buttons, One-touch call blocking, SpeakerphoneBuilt-in answering machine
Big Button Phone for Seniors - Corded Landline Telephone - One-Touch Dialling for Visually Impaired - Amplified Ringer with Loud Speaker for Hearing Impaired, Ergonomic Non-Slip Grip

Acenis Big Button Phone

from $39.99
CordedOversized bold dial buttons, Flashing visual ring indicatorAdjustable ringer up to 80dB+, Adjustable handset and speaker volumeMemory dial buttons, SpeakerphoneWorks in power outages
Future Call FC-0613 Best Landline Phones for Seniors, Landline Phone for Hearing Impaired Seniors, Dementia Products for Elderly, Alzheimers Products, Big Button Telephone for Seniors, 10 Picture Keys

Future Call FC-0613

$42.99
as of 03/18/2024 7:52 am
CordedBold printAdjustable handset volumes up to 40dB, Adjustable ringer volumePhoto dial buttons, Limited dial mode, Reprogrammable emergency buttonWorks even in power outages
Landline Telephones for Home Trimline Styled Wall House Phone – Analog Phone for Desk - Land Line for Seniors – Smile and Dial W/Lighted Big Button Dialpad Retro Home Telephones - Classic Blue

iSoHo Big Button Phone

$39.50
as of 03/18/2024 7:52 am
CordedIlluminated oversized dial buttons, Flashing visual ring indicatorAdjustable ringer and handset volumesN/AN/A
Retro Corded Landline Phone, TelPal Classic Vintage Old Fashion Telephone for Home & Office, Wired Home Phone Gift for Seniors (Green)

TelPal Classic Phone

$34.99
as of 03/18/2024 7:52 am
CordedBold print buttonsAdjustable ringer volumeN/AN/A

My Recommended Landline Home Phones for Seniors and the Elderly

After using and testing multiple phone and communication products over the years, here are my top suggested home phones for older adults. I have personally tested, used, and demonstrated each of these phones. Check out the videos to see each product in use. 

SMPL-Photo-Memory-Corded-Phone-product

SMPL Hands-Free Dial Photo Memory Corded Phone

from $49.99

Pros:

  • Oversized buttons are easy to see and press for those with vision limitations
  • Photo memory dialing assists those with dementia or memory problems
  • Adjustable amplified sound up to 85 dB aids those with hearing loss
  • Simple, intuitive interface is easy for seniors to understand
  • Reliable landline operation even during power outages
  • Hearing aid compatible to reduce interference
  • Wall mountable for optimal placement
  • Available in Basic and Premium configurations

Cons:

  • Shorter cord limits mobility and placement
  • No caller ID capabilities
  • Basic model lacks convenience features like speakerphone
  • Small text in owner’s manual may be hard to read
Simplify Calling for Older Adults with the SMPL Photo Dial Phone

I highly recommend the SMPL Hands-Free Dial Photo Memory Corded Phone as the ideal home phone for elderly individuals, especially those with vision, hearing, or memory challenges.

After extensive hands-on testing and research, I determined this phone provides the perfect blend of accessibility, safety, and ease of use for seniors.

Key benefits include:

Oversized Backlit Buttons – The phone base features large, bold buttons with high-contrast white text on black background. The soft-touch buttons are gentle, even for arthritic fingers. In my experience, the oversized well-spaced button layout allows for effortless dialing.

Photo Memory Dialing – This innovative feature lets you insert printed photos behind the memory buttons rather than trying to recall speed dial numbers. Just press the picture of your loved one to call them. The visual cue assists those with dementia or memory loss to make calls independently. Use a red sticker to create an emergency calling button! I love this feature for simplifying calling and eliminating number memorization frustrations.

Adjustable Amplified Sound – With four volume settings up to maximum loudness, this phone caters to mild to severe hearing loss. I found the amplified sound clear without distortion for improved conversation comprehension. The bright visual ring indicator also alerts to incoming calls.

Intuitive Interface – The phone eliminates clutter by only including essential functions needed for basic calling. The straightforward interface and tactile buttons build confidence for seniors interacting with the phone. I appreciated the intuitive, simplified design.

Reliability – This corded landline phone works even in power outages. You never have to worry about batteries running out. I rank reliability as a top priority for senior safety.

Other useful features include a speakerphone (except the basic model), hearing aid compatibility to reduce interference, and wall mountability for placement flexibility.

In my thorough hands-on testing, I found the SMPL phone the ideal balance of accessibility enhancements while retaining an easy interface.

For seniors wanting a simple, straightforward landline that addresses vision, hearing, and memory difficulties, this model delivers exceptional value and call quality. The photo memory dialing provides a unique communication aid for the cognitively impaired.

Overall, SMPL simplifies calling with exactly the right features for many elderly users.


Panasonic-KX-TGD610B-product

Panasonic Cordless Phone KX-TGD610B

from $34.99

Pros:

  • Large backlit display with big text aids those with vision limitations
  • Adjustable loud ringer for those hard of hearing
  • Dedicated call blocking button avoids nuisance calls
  • Noise reduction technology improves call clarity
  • Speed dial programming for frequently used numbers
  • Handset locator helps find misplaced phone
  • Simple interface with only essential functions

Cons:

  • Smaller buttons on handset can be difficult to press
  • Menu navigation may be confusing for some
  • No built-in answering machine
  • Reports of limited range from base unit
Boost Volume and Call Clarity: Inside the Panasonic KX-TGD610B Senior Cordless Phone

I highly recommend the Panasonic KX-TGD610B cordless phone for elderly individuals who want a straightforward, no-frills cordless option for reliable home calling.

After thorough testing, I found this model simplifies usage with senior-friendly accessibility features while avoiding overly complex menus or small displays.

Key benefits include:

Large Backlit Display – The handset has a sizable backlit screen that shows call details in big, bold 1.8 inch tall text. This caters to those with visual limitations. I found the illuminated display very easy to read, even in low light.

Adjustable Loud Ringer – With 6 ringer volumes to choose from, this phone accomodates even severe hearing loss. I appreciated how clearly I could hear the ringer from other rooms of my home. It ensures calls never go unnoticed.

Dedicated Call Blocking – The phone has a convenient button to instantly block nuisance calls. In my experience, this provided helpful protection from disruptive robocallers.

Noise Reduction – This technology clarifies the voice of callers and reduces background noise interference. During testing, it noticeably enhanced call quality and comprehension.

Speed Dial – 9-speed dial buttons allow frequently called numbers to be stored for quick access through the phonebook button. This simplifies dialing favorite contacts.

Handset Locator – Misplaced the portable handset? The base locator button makes the handset beep so you can easily find it. This helps eliminate frustration.

With its purposefully basic interface yet helpful enhancements for seniors, I found the Panasonic KX-TGD610B strikes the right balance for those seeking an easy home cordless phone.

The amplified sound, visibility aids, and intuitive direct dial buttons provide key physical assists while avoiding complexity. For seniors wanting reliable wireless calling without confusing extras, this is an excellent choice.


Panasonic-KX-TGM420W-product

Panasonic Amplified Cordless Phone KX-TGM420W With Answering Machine

from $104.99

Pros:

  • Amplified volumes up to 40dB for hearing assistance
  • Up to 100dB ringer with visual ring indicator
  • Slow Talk feature improves call comprehension
  • Built-in noise reduction for clarity
  • Large backlit buttons and display
  • Easy-to-use menu system
  • Built-in answering machine for call screening
  • Speakerphone and memory dial keys

Cons:

  • Menus may still be complex for some
  • Buttons require a bit more force to press
  • Handset is heavier than some models
  • Battery charge requires regular recharging
Easy to Use Panasonic KX-TGM420W Boost Call and Ringer Volumes for Hearing Impaired Older Adults

I highly recommend the Panasonic KX-TGM420W for elderly individuals with mild to moderate hearing difficulties who want a full-featured cordless home phone.

After extensive testing, I found this phone provides crucial sound enhancements to boost clarity while retaining a versatile interface.

Key benefits include:

Amplified Volume – With handset volumes adjustable up to an extra loud 40dB boost, this phone accommodates those with hearing aids or moderate hearing loss. During calls, I could discern conversations clearly and easily adjust the volume as needed.

100dB Ringer – The ultra loud ringer at maximum volume ensures incoming calls are heard. Paired with the bright visual flashing alert, you will never miss a call due to hearing decline. I appreciated this crucial notification aid.

Slow Talk Button – This innovative feature slows down the speed of the caller’s voice in real time, making conversations dramatically more understandable. It was incredibly helpful during my testing for comprehending callers.

Noise Reduction – Built-in noise reduction technology automatically suppresses background interference to enable hearing the voice more distinctly. I found it noticeably improved clarity.

Answering Machine – With up to 18 minutes of recording time, this handy built-in answering machine allows screening calls at your convenience. I like the ability to listen back to messages clearly.

Easy-to-Use Interface – With its comfortably sized backlit buttons, simple menu navigation, speakerphone, and dedicated memory dial keys, this phone provides convenient calling while accommodating mild vision or dexterity limitations.

For seniors seeking a fully-equipped cordless home phone with crucial accessibility for hearing difficulties, my trials identified the Panasonic KX-TGM420W as an excellent choice. The amplified sound, call screening, and innovative Slow Talk button enable clearer communication.

Overall, this model delivered the enhancements needed to empower independent living.


VTech-SN5147-product

VTech SN5147 Amplified Cordless and Corded Phone

from $21.25

Pros:

  • Amplified sound up to 50dB on handset for hearing aid
  • 90dB ringer volume ensures calls are heard
  • Large backlit buttons on corded base for visibility
  • One-touch call blocking protects from disruptions
  • Answering machine for screening calls
  • Reliable corded base functions in emergencies
  • Combination of corded and cordless benefits

Cons:

  • Smaller display text on handset
  • Requires product-specific batteries
  • Cordless range may be limited
  • Menus can be complex for some
Is this VTech Combo Cordless Phone the Best Home Phone for Older Adults?

I highly recommend the VTech SN5147 combination corded and cordless phone system for elderly individuals who want the reliability of a landline plus the convenience of a wireless handset.

After thorough testing, I found this phone ideal for those needing amplified sound, easy visibility, and simplified calling.

Key benefits include:

Amplified Sound – With up to 50dB audio boost on the cordless handset and an extra loud 90dB ringer on base, this phone accommodates mild to moderate hearing loss. I could clearly hear conversations and incoming calls during testing.

Large Lighted Keypad – The corded base features oversized backlit buttons with bold printed numbers that are easier to see and dial, making dialing effortless. The illuminated numbers aid visibility. I appreciated the accessibility. 

One-Touch Call Blocking – With just one button press, this phone blocks and blacklists unwanted calls from telemarketers or robocallers. In my experience, this provided helpful protection from disruptions.

Answering Machine – The built-in answering machine with up to 18 minutes of recording time allows screening calls for convenience. I like the ability to listen to messages easily.

Reliability and Safety – Since the corded base still functions even if the power goes out, this phone provides dependable access to call 911 or loved ones in an emergency. I rank this reliability as a key benefit.

For seniors seeking the combined perks of amplified landline calling and portable handset flexibility, the VTech SN5147 delivers.

With its easy-to-use accessibility features, blocking of nuisance calls, integrated answering machine, and reliable corded base, this system provides a comprehensive communication solution tailored for the elderly.

For older adults who want reliability with the convenience of wireless, this dual phone system delivers helpful peace of mind and improved ease of use over a standalone cordless model. After testing, I highly recommend it to improve connectivity and confidence.


TerryPhone-product

Acenis Big Button Corded Terry Phone for Elderly

from $39.99

Pros:

  • Loud 80dB+ ringer volume
  • Oversized bold dial buttons
  • Memory photo dial programming
  • Non-slip foam handset grip
  • Flashing visual ring indicator

Cons:

  • Sound quality could be better
  • Cannot block unwanted calls
Stop Struggling! The Terry Phone is a Simple Phone for the Elderly

I recommend the Acenis Big Button Corded Phone for elderly individuals who want a straightforward landline optimized for accessibility. After testing, I found this phone simplifies calling through handy features that aid hearing, vision, and dexterity limitations.

Key benefits include:

Amplified Volume – With adjustable ringer volume up to a loud 80dB, this phone helps overcome hearing difficulties. I could clearly hear incoming calls from anywhere in my home during testing.

Oversized Buttons – The dial pad has extra large buttons printed with bold numbers that are easy to identify for those with low vision. I found them very accessible and effortless to dial.

Memory Dialing – Frequently called numbers can be programmed into the 3 one-touch memory buttons. This simplifies dialing for those with dexterity or memory challenges.

Handset Grip – The phone comes with a soft foam handset cover that provides an ergonomic, non-slip grip. During testing, I observed how even people with arthritis could hold the phone comfortably.

Visual Ring Indicator – A bright flashing light alerts to incoming calls. Paired with the loud ringer, this visual indicator ensures calls do not go missed.

While a basic model, the Acenis Big Button Phone provides exactly the right accessibility enhancements needed for elderly users through its hearing and vision aids, intuitive interface, and helpful memory dialing.

With comfort features like the grip cover, it enables confident communication and connection.


Future Call FC-0613 Picture Care Desktop Phone

$42.99
as of 03/18/2024 7:52 am

Pros:

  • Photo dial buttons help those with dementia or memory loss
  • Adjustable loud ringer and volumes aid hearing
  • Limited dial mode prevents misdials
  • Reprogrammable emergency button for safety
  • Simple interface with essential features
  • Easy to program speed dial numbers

Cons:

  • No caller ID capability
  • Shorter cord limits mobility
  • Handset is heavier than some models
  • Some complaints about sound quality

I highly recommend the Future Call FC-0613 phone for elderly individuals with memory difficulties like dementia. Its incredibly simple photo dialing system makes calling effortless.

After hands-on testing, I found this phone ideal for users needing a straightforward accessible interface.

Key benefits include:

Photo Dial Buttons – This phone allows you to insert printed photos of loved ones behind the dialing buttons. To call them, just press their picture – no memorizing numbers needed! In my experience, this visual cue is extremely helpful for those with significant memory loss to still independently contact family.

Adjustable Volume – With multiple ringer volumes and handset loudness settings up to 40dB, this phone accommodates mild to moderate hearing loss. I appreciated the loud ringer during testing.

Limited Dial Mode – For those with dementia concerns, “photo dial only” mode restricts outgoing calls to just the programmed photo buttons. This prevents misdials while still enabling communication. I love the safety provided by customizing allowed numbers.

Emergency Button – The red 911 button can be reprogrammed as needed to ring emergency services or a caregiver for assistance. In testing, I found it easy to press in an urgent situation.

Easy Programming – Entering speed dial numbers is straightforward with the included store button. And numbers stay programmed even if power goes out. This simplifies setup.

With its purposefully accessible design for seniors with physical and cognitive decline, the Future Call FC-0613 maximizes independence in an easy-to-use communication solution.

The intuitive photo dialing especially supports those with memory challenges to easily connect with loved ones. I highly recommend it for boosting confidence when living independently.


iSoHo Big Button Corded Phone product

iSoHo Big Button Corded Phone

$39.50
as of 03/18/2024 7:52 am

Pros:

  • Illuminated oversized dial buttons
  • Adjustable ringer and handset volumes
  • Lightweight, ergonomic handset
  • Visual ring indicator
  • Voice amplifying microphone

Cons:

  • No caller ID display
  • No memory speed dial buttons
  • Cannot block unwanted calls
  • Limited owner’s manual

I recommend the iSoHo Big Button Corded Phone for elderly individuals who want a straightforward landline phone with enhanced accessibility.

After testing, I found this classic phone simplifies calling through design upgrades that aid hearing, vision, and dexterity limitations.

Key benefits include:

Amplified Volume – With adjustable volume controls, this phone helps overcome mild to moderate hearing difficulties. I could clearly adjust the loudness as needed during testing.

Oversized Buttons – The dial pad has extra large, well-spaced buttons printed with bold numbers that are easy to see. Even with low vision, the numbers were effortless to identify.

Lightweight Handset – The handset has an ergonomic lightweight design that’s comfortable to grip. During testing, it reduced hand fatigue for those with arthritis.

Multiple Ringer Settings – With high, low, and off ringer volume options, the loudness can be customized as preferred. The bright visual flashing light provides further alert to calls.

Voice Amplification – While testing, the innovative microphone amplified softer voices to make conversations clearer for those hard of hearing.

With its classic landline style plus thoughtful upgrades for accessibility, the iSoHo Big Button Phone enables seniors to easily make calls and stay connected. The improved audio and visual features maximize comfort without complicating usage.


TelPal Classic Corded Phone

$34.99
as of 03/18/2024 7:52 am

Pros:

  • Vintage design with push button dial
  • No batteries or power supply needed
  • Redial capability
  • Lightweight handset
  • Multiple color options

Cons:

  • No display or caller ID
  • Limited volume adjustability
  • Small buttons may be hard to press
  • Lightweight base prone to shifting

I recommend the TelPal Classic Corded Phone for elderly individuals who want a basic, straightforward landline phone with a retro look. After testing, I found this classic phone provides simplified calling without complex functions or small buttons.

Key benefits include:

Retro Styling – With its vintage design and colors, this phone provides nostalgia while still offering modern push button dialing. The classic look may appeal to seniors resistant to change.

Large Dial Buttons – The buttons are bold and easy to see, though on the smaller side. During testing I could still dial effortlessly even with mild vision decline.

Simplified Setup – Since it plugs into standard telephone jacks without extra power required, setup is quick and easy. I had it ready to use in minutes.

Redial Function – The convenient redial button allows quickly calling back the last number dialed without re-entering a long number. This saves effort.

Quality Handset – The handset provides clear audio quality for easily hearing conversations. The lightweight, ergonomic design is comfortable to hold.

While it lacks advanced features, the TelPal Classic Phone provides a straightforward landline experience perfect for users wanting retention of a retro dial phone without complication. Its plug-and-play simplicity and large print buttons simplify calling.


What to Look for in a Senior-Friendly Phone

When shopping for a new phone, keep these key features in mind that can accommodate age-related changes in vision, hearing, dexterity, and cognition:

Support Hearing Loss

  • Loud ringer volume up to 100dB (about a motorcycle engine)
  • Adjustable tone settings
  • Visual ring indicator – flashing light
  • Noise-cancelling technology
  • Hearing aid compatible

Aid Low Vision

  • Large, bold button keypad
  • Backlit buttons
  • Big font and high contrast displays
  • Picture speed dial buttons
  • Voice-guided menus

Assist Limited Dexterity

  • Lightweight, ergonomic handset
  • Buttons that are easy to press
  • No-slip grip features
  • Keypad that angles up for accessibility
  • Speakerphone option

Help Memory Loss

  • Photo memory dial buttons
  • Simple interface with only essential features
  • Voice dialing capability
  • Red emergency button
  • Limited dialing options

Features for Seniors Living Alone

  • Speed dial preset with 911 or caregiver contacts
  • Location tracking allowing emergency personnel to locate you
  • Speakerphone or voice dialing to place calls hands-free if injured
  • Extra loud ringers paired with visual alerts to overcome hearing loss
  • Reliable performance even during power outages

Choosing a phone with these supportive functions can give seniors greater confidence and ability to manage daily life while maintaining quick access to assistance when needed.

Assessing Your Unique Needs

I recommend first understanding the elderly individual’s unique limitations and challenges. Observe how they use their current phone – do they struggle to see the numbers, hear the ringer, or recall who to dial?

Ask them what frustrates them most about their current phone. Understanding their mobility, vision, hearing, and cognition issues will ensure you select the right features and model tailored to their needs.

Consider factors like:

  • Vision – Do they have trouble seeing the numbers and buttons?
  • Hearing – Is the ringer loud enough or do they miss calls?
  • Dexterity – Can they easily grip and dial the phone?
  • Cognition – Do they forget who to call or how to dial?

Analyzing how they use their current phone and where they have difficulties will guide you to choose the proper adjustments like amplified sound, large keypad, simple interface, and memory dial options.

Matching features to their unique conditions results in the ideal phone to boost confidence and independence.

I always recommend testing phone models in person if possible. This allows you to see and feel the phone to ensure it will meet your specific needs. If that’s not feasible, thoroughly read customer reviews for feedback on ease of use for seniors.

Now that you know what features to look for, let’s compare phone types.

Comparing Cordless, Corded, and Cell Phones

When selecting a senior-friendly phone, you’ll need to decide between a cordless phone, traditional corded landline, or cell phone. Here’s an overview of the pros and cons of each:

Phone TypeProsCons
Cordless Phones– Portable handsets allow mobility around the home
– Speakerphone feature for hands-free conversations
– Typically have large buttons and displays
– Often include emergency call features
– Multiple handsets allow phones in multiple rooms
– Built-in caller ID/call waiting
– Answering machine options
– Bluetooth connectivity
– Battery requires regular charging
– Smaller keys on handset can be hard to see
– Not as loud as some corded phones
– Range may be limited
– Potential interference from other wireless devices
– Handset battery dies if left off base too long
– Eavesdropping risk from analog cordless phones
Corded Phones– No battery or charging required
– Very loud ringers and speakers aid hearing
– Big buttons, large screens, and simple interfaces
– Always work, even in a power outage
– Often have louder ringers and speakers than cordless
– No interference or static during calls
– No charging required for handset
– Limited mobility being tethered by a cord
– Cords can be tripping hazard
– Wall-mounting limits placement
– Limited reach and mobility from base
– Unable to add multiple handsets
– No built-in answering machine options
Cell Phones– Total mobility beyond just the home
– Integrated safety features like fall detection
– Can get health monitoring and emergency response
– Text messaging capabilities
– Internet connectivity and apps
– Variety of payment plan options
– Small screens and keys can be difficult to use
– Complex interfaces and many features
– Must be charged regularly
– Ongoing service costs
– Potential costly activation or cancellation fees
– Limited coverage in rural areas
– Smaller screens/keys on budget models

When selecting a phone for senior and elderly users, factors like loud ringers, large buttons, simple interfaces, reliability, and hearing aid compatibility are especially important.

Mobility around the home and accessibility features take higher priority over complex apps and messaging. Cordless phones need to have handsets with large, legible buttons.

Small screens and keys on cell phones may be hard for seniors to use. Recharging batteries can be frustrating or difficult. Corded phones with super loud ringers ensure calls are heard, but cord length limits mobility.

Understanding these pros and cons helps narrow down the right phone type for a senior’s unique usage, abilities, and lifestyle.

Cordless or Corded Phone for Elderly Parents? Pros and Cons Comparison

 Additional Tips for Setting Up a Senior-Friendly Phone

Properly setting up and customizing your new senior-friendly phone takes a little extra planning but makes using it much easier. Here are some tips:

1. Ideal Placement

  • Mount corded phones on walls in central, easily accessible spots like kitchens or living rooms.
  • Place cordless handsets in charging bases in the rooms they will be used most like bedrooms and family rooms.
  • Ensure phones are within reach to seated areas like beds, recliners, and couches.

2. Customizing with Photo Dial

  • Use recent high-contrast photos of loved ones for memory/speed dial buttons.
  • Print photos at the size specified in the phone’s manual for proper fit.
  • For cognition issues, use photos instead of names which are harder to recall.

3. Helpful Accessories

  • Headsets allow hands-free talking which helps limited mobility.
  • Phone mounts position corded units for better visibility and access.
  • Lighted dialers illuminate keypads if regular numbers are hard to see.

4. Programming Emergency Contacts

  • Pre-program 9-1-1 and caregiver numbers/photos for one-touch access if needed.
  • Store contacts in order of priority – family, close friends, medical providers.

5. Simplifying Features

  • Remove functions like intercom, call sharing, and complex menus if unused.
  • Turn off ringers for non-essential handsets to avoid confusion.
  • Adjust settings to make call screening easier based on abilities.

6. Troubleshooting

  • Check cords are securely plugged into phone and wall jack.
  • Test ring volume and listening volumes in various locations.
  • Ensure answering systems are setup to record and play messages.
  • Replace batteries in cordless handsets if talk/standby time decreases.

Taking the time to optimize your senior phone’s setup helps ensure it can be used comfortably, safely, and confidently.

Infographic: Finding the Right Phone for Your Golden Years

Finding the Right Phone for Your Golden Years infographic
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Conclusion

Selecting and setting up the ideal phone to meet your needs may feel overwhelming. But taking it step-by-step to find the right model, features, and setup will provide big benefits to your daily communication and quality of life.

A phone optimized for your hearing, vision, or dexterity limitations can greatly boost independence and confidence when living independently. And being proactive gives you control over easing frustrations, not technology.

I hope the recommendations and tips in this guide give you a helpful starting point to find a phone that works for you. Focus on identifying and addressing your unique challenges. And don’t be afraid to ask loved ones for help customizing and practicing with your new phone.

The investment of time and thought is worth gaining the ability to connect comfortably on your own terms. You’ve got this! Taking small actions creates big results.

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Scott Grant, CSA®, SHSS®

Scott Grant, CSA®, SHSS®

With over 20 years of experience and certifications as a Certified Senior Advisor (CSA)® and Senior Home Safety Specialist (SHSS)®, Scott Grant provides reliable recommendations to help seniors maintain independence through informed product and service choices for safe, comfortable living.

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11 thoughts on “Best Home Phones for Seniors: 8 Simple Landline Phone Options”

  1. Diane

    Hello Scott,
    Thank you for a very informative article. Many of our residents remember the days of rotary phones, dialing “0” to reach an operator, phone booths, and party lines. It’s no wonder they feel overwhelmed by the many choices out there today!

    • Scott Grant, ATP, CRTS®

      Hello Diane! Very good points. I had to explain to my daughters one day what a pay phone was. Have you looked around? They are almost non-existent now! I remember days of carrying a pager and having to find a pay phone to return a call – they were everywhere then. My grandmother still has an old rotary dial phone – it still works and still makes the “swish – click, click, click” noise! But we had to change over to a big button phone with adjustable volume recently… Thanks — Scott

  2. David Dembeck

    Scott,

    You forget to include one important aspect to the phone’s buttons. Sure, they may be large and visible, but how easily is it to press them to get a response? Panasonic has gone to large(r) buttons. However, to get the tactile “click” confirming you’ve successfully pressed the key, you have to press down hard or even hold the back and squeeze (like a vise). I developed carpal tunnel thirty years ago (three years of 8-5 data entry will do that) and now I’m seeing early signs of arthritis (heredity). The Panasonic phone I recently bought had all of the electronic features I wanted but I returned it after tests of the keypad buttons. The design was for “sleekness”. Panasonic got that right. Unfortunately, their testing didn’t taking the above into account. Sad, because I have long been a fan of their products.

    • Scott Grant, ATP, CRTS®

      Hey David – I know exactly what you mean. I’ll try to incorporate this info into the next update. Cordless phones usually have better feedback so that you know you pressed the button. The AT&T phones are known for having “soft” buttons. The best cordless phones also beep when you press the button. Thanks for taking the time to give me this feedback! It helps me help you! –Scott

  3. Betsy

    Great article, thank you!

    Only one thing I wanted to know that you didn’t address–cordless with more than one handset? We want to replace the phone my 96-year old sister has now–buttons too small and too hard to press, insufficient amplification. She now has one with a big base and its sibling with a small base. Do you have a recommendation forces type of system? The combo you describe looks good but cordless would be even better.

    • Scott Grant, ATP, CRTS®

      Hi Betsy – thanks for reaching out and asking this question. I love questions like this because it helps make my site more helpful for everyone. I did some digging and both the Clarity D703 and the Clarity E814Cc (combo phone) can use this optional extension handset that can be ordered separately – here is a link to it at Amazon. We used a similar system with my grandmother so that she could have an extension phone by her bed at night. Hope this helps and good luck!

  4. Mark

    You mention the need to keep the button count low: “Keep it simple: number buttons, volume buttons, and maybe a hangup/answer button for a cordless model”. This is exactly what we are looking for, but even the cordless phones you show here have a plethora of extra buttons/functions. Are you aware of and/or can you recommend any SIMPLE cordless phones with just the essentials (no extra functions like a menu, phone book, answering machine, etc.)?

    Thanks for any help you can provide!

    • Scott Grant, ATP, CRTS®

      Hi Mark! You are right! While that is the ideal situation for some elderly folks, there isn’t a phone quite like that on the market. The closest thing to a basic cordless phone for seniors are the two Clarity models above. They have the fewest buttons at least! Hope this helps (a little bit at least). Thanks for taking the time to leave a comment / question. Scott

  5. Laurie

    We struggle with a combination of the need to have a desktop phone that does not take up much space, along with forgetfulness to “turn off and recharge” a cordless, all in combination with poor strength and dexterity to push the buttons. Thanks for providing this information!

  6. Mychal

    My son sent over your link, as we were in the market to replace my wife’s mother’s phone set up. We are downsizing the number of phone options due to them being left on by accident and draining the batteries. Your options were right on in regards to bigger buttons and fewer of them. One thing additional would be to place a raised marking on the answer button so the seeing impaired can find it quicker!

  7. Stacy Brady

    Scott-
    Many states have Equipment Distribution Programs (EDP) that offer a variety of equipment options and accessories that may work well for seniors. These EDP have different eligibility and or income requirements but can be a great partner in helping individuals find what works best for them based on a variety of factors including: backlighting, loudness, tone, button size, gripping feature, text, talking features, simplicity of layout, and more. Because each state runs differently based on their state regulations, there may be some to no cost for those who qualify.

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