Staying Connected

Most of us use our phones every day without thinking about their design. Being able to easily use a phone can help seniors remain independent in their homes and call for help in an emergency. However, many phones are not well designed for the elderly. They have small labels, small buttons, are not loud enough and have too many features that confuse seniors (and even some of us who aren’t seniors). Hearing loss, vision loss, limited mobility and/or memory loss can all contribute to difficulty using a standard phone.

The following is a list of communication devices grouped by features that help with specific issues such as loss of hearing, vision, memory and mobility. We’ll also discuss Web cams and cell phones for the elderly. Adding these types of products to an HME store’s inventory allows providers to improve their senior clients’ quality of life and boost cash sales as a bonus.

Hearing Loss

Hearing loss is widespread and can be frustrating for both seniors and their friends and family who call. Missed phone calls, repeating yourself and not knowing if others have heard you are all common problems. Fortunately, there are amplified phones for the elderly with features that can help.

• Adjustable volume control—This allows people with and without hearing issues to use the same phone.
• Hearing aid compatibility—Some phones can use the hearing aid as an additional speaker (with Bluetooth technology-equipped hearing aids).
• Adjustable ringer volume—The ringer can be adjusted to a level that the senior can hear.
• Visual call indicators—These are lights that flash—in addition to the regular ringing—to signal that there is an incoming call. Some phones for the elderly even connect to a lamp and the light will flash if the phone is ringing.
• Headphone compatibility—Some phones can be used with headphones which makes it easier to hear as it minimizes background noise.
• Visual message indicator—This is usually in addition to an auditory “beep” when there is a message, so the senior does not have to rely on a sound signal only when they have a message waiting.

Low Vision

Many seniors also have low vision, making it difficult to read the small print on most modern phones. Phones for people with low vision often include features such as:

• Large buttons and screens—These make it easier to identify the buttons as well as push them.
• Contrasting colors—Contrasting colors make it easier to read the buttons and features on the phone.
• Speed dial buttons with large pictures—Programmable speed dial numbers allow users to program frequently called numbers. Some phones also allow users to put pictures of people on the speed dial buttons to easily identify who they want to call.
• Braille on buttons—Some phones include braille to identify buttons and other features.
• Voice confirmation—A feature that repeats the number as it is being dialed.
• Extra-large display screen—Makes it easier to read lettering (high contrast large letters) for caller ID, voice messages and missed calls.
• Auditory message indicator—Lets seniors hear that there is a message rather than have to look for a flashing light.

Memory Loss

Many phones for seniors feature large picture speed dials. These can be programmed with frequently called numbers and their respective pictures so all the senior has to do is push the button with the photo of who they want to call—no need to remember or look up a phone number. This type of feature can also remind seniors to call friends and family which helps them stay connected and reduces social isolation.

Seniors with memory loss can also have difficulty with cordless phones because the user often forgets to charge the phone or misplaces the handset. Having a regular corded phone for when the batteries of the cordless are drained or there is a power outage is a good idea.

Cell phones with calendar features can remind users of appointments, to take medications and more. Models are constantly changing so it is best to choose one that is simple to use and intuitive.

Limited Mobility

Cordless phones are good for seniors who have difficulty getting to the phone in time. Instead of having to rush to get to the phone quickly, they can simply keep the phone nearby. Many seniors carry their cordless phones with them in a pocket or on their walker wherever they go in the house. As previously mentioned, the disadvantage is that seniors with memory issues often forget to charge cordless phones and/or forget where they placed them.

Web Cams

The Internet has changed our lives and Web cams are a great way for seniors to stay connected with friends and family. Internet based Web cam programs such as Skype allow seniors to see and hear their loved ones over their computer. Many of today’s video phone programs run on almost all computers and are simple to use. They may have to be set up or programmed in the beginning but many seniors can easily use them after they’ve been installed.

The best place to set up the computer is in the kitchen, living room or any central place where the Web cam program can be logged in. This allows callers to reach them much like they would on a regular phone.

Cell Phones

Cell phones for the elderly are not only convenient but are also valuable safety tools. However, most cell phones are not designed for seniors—they have small screens and buttons, can be complicated to use and have limited volume adjustments. However, there are models designed specifically for the needs of the elderly. Some models even have a large emergency button similar to elderly medical alerts but can be used outside and away from the home.