What is the best phone and/or computer for my relative?

While usability for older users hasn’t been a strong driver in the design of smart phones, tablets and computers there are features that can definitely make these easier for older people to use, so we advise you look out for them.

Anecdotally we understand older people are using large screen smart phones and tablets in preference to computers. So, the following suggestions we make are in response this apparently preferred behaviour.

When helping an older person buy a device (further to the information you/they will be getting from the seller) we suggest the following:

• If they haven’t owned such as device before, get some lessons. Many libraries, Age Concern, some Seniornet centres and other community organisations offer these for free. Enquire at their local library or Citizens Advice Bureau. Family members can help too however we've found they often they lack the expertise and patience of the more qualified trainer.  
• Buy from a reputable source.
• Cost is of course a big consideration. Decide what features are most important, needed or wanted. 
• Know the difference between an Android phone (open source operating system and very customisable) and an iPhone (IOS operating system). They function slightly differently and offer different features. There are alternatives to Android and IOS but they are not in common use yet.
• What is the weight and feel of it? Is it comfortable to grip? Is it too heavy? Does it feel too flimsy?
• What is the quality of the hardware like? Is it durable and protected against dust and water?
• What is the battery life like? A short battery life can be frustrating.
• What is the volume like? How does it sound when it is turned up high? Is it still clear?
• Does it have a good camera? Is a camera important?
• How does it work with headphones? Are they plug in or Bluetooth?
• Is a case and/or screen protector needed?
• Is the screen easy to see? Is it big enough? Is it bright enough? What’s it like in bright sunlight?
• Are the buttons big enough? How do they compare to others?
• Would it be used to write on; if so what is the stylus (digital pen) like?
• Is the performance quick and responsive.
• What accessibility features does it have? Could they be useful?
• What sort of digital assistant (voice command assistance) e.g., Siri, Alexa, does it have? Might they use it?
• Does it have biometrics i.e., fingerprint or facial authentication to enable quick and easy login

Finally, if an Android smartphone is bought consider getting what is known as a Launcher. These are apps that can be loaded onto the device enabling customisation of the screen to the person's choosing e.g., perhaps only a limited number of applications are needed e.g., Google, Facebook etc., or only the display of favourite or frequent contacts. Popular Launchers for Android phones include: Simple Launcher and Elder Launcher.