The Best Cell Phones for Visually Impaired Seniors
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- Large, ultra-clear Super Retina XDR display
- Advanced smartphone features
- Dozens of ways to customize brightness, color, and accessibility features
- Family and caregiver features
- Excellent security features
- Large touchscreen tablet
- Variety of accessibility features and voice commands
- Large display
- Built-in Braille keyboard
Did you know over 12 million Americans aged 40 years and over experience vision impairment, and that number is expected to double by 2050 as our population ages?1 Vision loss doesn’t have to put a damper on cell phone use. Many cell phones now include accessibility tools, and older adults with low vision are tapping into this assistive tech. In this article, we’ll cover the best cell phones for visually impaired seniors and the key features to consider. Since choosing the right service provider is also a high priority, we reviewed plan pricing, perks, and availability for multiple carriers.
Our Methodology: How We Tested and Chose the Best Cell Phones for Blind or Visually Impaired Seniors
Testing the iPhone 14 Pro's accessibility features
Cell phones have become an integral part of our everyday lives. According to Pew Research Center, 92 percent of adults aged 65 and over own a cell phone. Our team researched the accessibility needs of people with vision impairment and the phones that are most useful to them. We also conducted hands-on testing to help narrow down the list to our top picks.
From the Pros: Our cell phone buyer’s guide has everything you need to know before purchasing a new phone, including how to get the best deal with top cell phone providers.
To determine the best cell phones for visually impaired seniors, we examined and tested the accessibility features (such as virtual assistants and text magnification), price, ease of use, screen size, and battery life. Your cell phone is only as good as the network it’s on, so we paired our best cell phones for blind or visually impaired seniors with a top-notch carrier.
Our Top 5 Cell Phones for Blind or Visually Impaired Seniors
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1. Apple iPhone 14 Pro from AT&T - Best smartphone
What we like most
- Large, ultra-clear Super Retina XDR display
- Advanced smartphone features
- Dozens of ways to customize brightness, color, and accessibility features
Apple iPhone 14 Pro from AT&T
Using the iPhone 14 Pro
Overview
The Apple iPhone 14 Pro outshines its tough competition, earning our pick for the best smartphone for visually impaired seniors. For such an advanced smartphone, the user interface is straightforward, making setting up (and using) the iPhone a stress-free experience. The crystal-clear 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR display, state-of-the-art accessibility tech, and easy integration with other Apple products makes the iPhone 14 Pro a fantastic choice for both newbie and tech-savvy smartphone users.
Apple certainly has its finger on the pulse of individuals with vision loss! With an impressive number of resources, including Apple’s accessibility support communities, AppleVis (an online resource for blind and low-vision users of Apple products), and technical help dedicated to accessibility assistance, Apple guides users through customizing accessibility features based on their individual needs. Talk about top-notch customer service and support!
Pros About Apple iPhone 14 Pro from AT&T
- Siri digital assistant
- VoiceOver screen reader
- Display and text size adjustment
- Magnifier and zoom
- Speak Screen
- Sensory alerts
- Dictation text entry
- Contrast and color customization
- FaceTime
- Built-in Braille keyboard
Cons About Apple iPhone 14 Pro from AT&T
- No headphone jack
- More expensive than the competition
The Bottom Line
With a retail price of $999.99 (or an installment plan with payments just over $41 per month), the iPhone 14 Pro delivers cutting-edge technology and exceptional accessibility features. Since smartphones can go hand in hand with a learning curve (especially when using accessibility features), we were thoroughly impressed with Apple’s all-inclusive support for its visually impaired users.
Inside Tip: Do you have low vision and hearing loss? Apple works with top hearing aid manufacturers to create what it calls “Made for iPhone,” or MFi, hearing aids that make pairing your hearing aids with your iPhone oh-so-simple!
AT&T is a one-stop shop for your new iPhone and phone plan. We found that AT&T has competitive plan pricing and perks, a wide variety of cell phone models, and a smooth buying experience. Residents of Florida aged 55 and over may benefit from AT&T’s Unlimited 55+ plan. For more details, head to our review of AT&T's senior-friendly phone plans.
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2. Consumer Cellular GrandPad - Best tablet
What we like most
- Family and caregiver features
- Excellent security features
- Large touchscreen tablet
Consumer Cellular GrandPad
Consumer Cellular GrandPad
Overview
The next product on our list might come as a surprise to you because it’s not quite a cell phone — it’s a tablet! The GrandPad made our list because it has many of the same functions as a cell phone and was designed for older adults. The GrandPad’s icons and screen are larger and easier to read; plus it limits the number of things you can do on each screen, making it easier to navigate for those with some visual impairment.
The GrandPad has pretty much all the functions you could ask for from a tablet or laptop, with the portability of a cell phone’s 4G LTE capabilities. That means you don’t have to connect your device to Wi-Fi to get online; you’ll be ready to make calls, surf the web, and watch videos anywhere you go. While you can’t use your same phone number for the GrandPad, you’ll get your own unique GrandPad number that friends and loved ones can message, call, video call, share photos and videos with, and more. Consumer Cellular’s prices for the GrandPad are fairly affordable for the industry; the tablet costs $149 with a $40 monthly fee for unlimited data.
Pros About Consumer Cellular GrandPad
- Can send and receive texts, calls, and video chats from people in their trusted network (meaning no scams or spam)
- 24/7 year-round customer support
- Lifetime insurance included
- Wireless cradle charger
- Family-member administrator
- All-in-one product
Cons About Consumer Cellular GrandPad
- Can’t make 911 calls
- Large size makes it less portable
The Bottom Line
The GrandPad offers exciting features that cater to the needs of visually impaired seniors. Whether you’re looking for a user-friendly product, have vision loss, or want a safer, more convenient way to stay connected with your loved ones, the GrandPad has you covered. To learn more about the GrandPad and other cell phone plans, check out our 2023 Consumer Cellular review and GrandPad review.
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3. Motorola Moto G Power 2021 from Mint Mobile - Most affordable
What we like most
- Easy-to-see design
- Speech-to-text capabilities
- Long battery life
Motorola Moto G Power 2021 from Mint Mobile
Motorola G Power 2021
Overview
Our most affordable cell phone accolade goes to the Motorola Moto G Power 2021 from Mint Mobile. It’s a solid choice for active older adults looking for accessibility features on the go without breaking their budget. Don’t want to be locked into a cell phone contract? You’re in luck! The Moto G Power 2021 also made it onto our best unlocked cell phones for seniors list.
The ultra-wide 6.6-inch Max Vision HD+ screen goes easy on the eyes and makes reading texts, sending emails, and video chatting a breeze. We were impressed with the Moto G Power’s intuitive design and plentiful built-in accessibility assistance. This Android phone comes with Google TalkBack, a powerful accessibility feature offering voice control and audio descriptions. Speaking of power, the Moto G Power 2021’s battery can go up to three days on a single charge!
Pros About Motorola Moto G Power 2021 from Mint Mobile
- Google TalkBack
- Screen magnification
- Brightly backlit displays and high contrast
- Voice dialing
- Keypad depression feedback (haptics for touchscreen)
- Built-in Braille keyboard
Cons About Motorola Moto G Power 2021 from Mint Mobile
- No traditional headphone jack
- Sound quality could be improved
The Bottom Line
Motorola understands the needs of individuals with vision, hearing, dexterity, or speech loss. In addition to offering cell phones with built-in accessibility tech, they also work with assistive device companies on Motorola-compatible products.
FYI: Want to avoid the hassle of complicated cell phone contracts? Mint Mobile offers cheap prepaid phone plans that pair perfectly with your unlocked Moto G phone. Head to our Mint Mobile review for more details.
Priced at $149.99, the Moto G Power 2021 packs quite a punch for the price. Keep in mind, though, there may be a bit of a learning curve for users new to Android products. Motorola has its customers covered with call center employees and a special task force to help with accessibility questions and needs.
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4. Google Pixel 6 from Verizon - Best technology
What we like most
- User-friendly phone
- Excellent camera quality
- Large, bright screen
Google Pixel 6 from Verizon
Google Pixel 6
Overview
We awarded the Google Pixel 6 the best technology accolade for good reason. The Pixel 6’s virtual assistant, screen reader, and adjustable font size make for a powerful yet pleasant user experience for visually impaired seniors. In an emergency, the Pixel can call for help automatically, record a video, or share your location. It can also detect if you may have been in a car accident and call for help if you’re unable to respond.3
The full-screen 6.4-inch FHD+ smooth display delivers a large viewing area and minimizes constant scrolling. We know accidental cell phone drops happen to everyone, so we are huge fans of the Pixel 6’s scratch-resistant Corning Gorilla Glass. Gone is the worry of constantly charging your battery since the impressive 24-hour-plus battery life can be extended up to 48 hours by using “extreme battery saver” mode.
Pros About Google Pixel 6 from Verizon
- TalkBack screen reader
- Adjustable display and font size
- Magnification mode
- Contrast and color options
- Select to Speak
- Lookout computer vision
- Voice Access
- Built-in Braille keyboard
- Google Assistant
Cons About Google Pixel 6 from Verizon
- Limited storage
- Will not pair with Apple products
The Bottom Line
The Google Pixel 6 comes in at $799, in line with the Samsung Galaxy S20 FE 5G. The emergency features, including emergency auto call and car crash detection, aren’t a substitute for a comprehensive medical alert system, but the Pixel offers safety features beyond the other phones on our list.
Shopping Tip: Cell phone quality, features, pricing, and perks are important factors to consider. Check out our best cell phones for seniors guide for the inside scoop on the top-ranked senior-friendly phones.
Verizon is a standout cell phone provider for the Google Pixel 6. Snag unlimited talk, text, and data, as well as solid bundling discounts, with a Verizon 55+ Unlimited plan. Verizon is one of the largest wireless carriers, and it offers reliable network coverage. Learn more about Verizon’s service in our Verizon senior cell phone plan review.
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5. Samsung Galaxy S20 FE 5G from T-Mobile - Best voice commands
What we like most
- Variety of accessibility features and voice commands
- Large display
- Built-in Braille keyboard
Samsung Galaxy S20 FE 5G from T-Mobile
Samsung Galaxy S20 FE 5G
Overview
The Samsung Galaxy S20 FE 5G from T-Mobile is an excellent choice for tech-savvy older adults with vision impairment. This Android smartphone provides valuable accessibility features and voice commands to help users with limited vision make the most out of their phone (just like the Motorola Moto G Power 2021).
Samsung’s Voice Assistant can act as your eyes when you’re using your phone. For example, it describes what you touch, select, and activate.2 Use the TalkBack screen reader to hear notifications, check how much battery life is left, and receive texts. With lightning-fast charging (wireless and plug-in) and a large 6.5-inch infinity display screen, the Samsung Galaxy S20 FE 5G doesn’t disappoint.
Pros About Samsung Galaxy S20 FE 5G from T-Mobile
- Voice Assistant
- Google TalkBack
- Text and icon magnification
- Color contrast correction
- Lookout camera identification
- Built-in Braille keyboard
Cons About Samsung Galaxy S20 FE 5G from T-Mobile
- Lacking internal storage space
- No traditional headphone jack
The Bottom Line
The Samsung Galaxy S20 FE 5G is jampacked with enhanced accessibility features and earns high praise for its voice control. Priced at $699, it’s comparable in cost and features to other high-end smartphones.
Quick Tip: Make the most of your phone by pairing it with a solid phone plan! After hours of in-depth research, our experts uncovered the best cell phone plans for seniors.
Buying a cell phone optimized for vision impairment is just part of the process! You’ll also need a carrier that provides outstanding customer support and competitive plan pricing. So why not snag your phone and phone plan through T-Mobile? T-Mobile’s plans and pricing are competitive, with customer discounts and perks. If you’re 55 or older, check out our review of T-Mobile’s Unlimited 55+ plans.
A Guide to Choosing a Cell Phone for Visually Impaired Seniors
Now that we’ve covered the best cell phone models (and carriers) for visually impaired older adults, let’s dive into accessibility features. Since everyone’s vision limitations and needs are unique, we’ve compiled the top accessibility options to consider to optimize your cell phone experience.
- Screen reader: Users hear what is on their smartphone screen through an intuitive screen reader. The synthesized voice reads the content and any elements found on the screen.
- Voice to text: There’s no need to contend with a hard-to-see keyboard. Send a text, make a call, or write a note through voice commands instead of typing.
- Audible alerts: Audio alerts for missed calls, text messages, and low battery help reduce difficult-to-view on-screen notifications.
- Backlit keypad: Bright, backlit buttons make it easier to see when in a dim lighting environment. Backlit buttons can be found on some of the best flip phones and brick-style cell phones.
- Built-in accessibility features: Preloaded accessibility features such as screen contrast, text size, and magnification help streamline the setup process so users can focus on getting comfortable with their phone.
- Big buttons: Large tactile buttons help users navigate their cell phone without the frustration of pushing the wrong keys when making calls or sending texts. Check out our five best big-button cell phones for seniors for more details.
- Audio descriptions: Video streaming may be a struggle for the vision impaired. Audio description provides a narration of the video’s key visual elements.
- Emergency SOS or integrated help service: Cell phones with health and safety features add an extra level of protection for older adults with low vision. Lively’s Jitterbug Flip2 cell phone with 24/7 emergency response received high marks in our Jitterbug cell phone review.
- Large screen: Cell phones with a generous screen size provide visually impaired seniors with a larger viewing area when browsing and making video calls.
- Vision aid app capability: In addition to built-in accessibility features, there is a wide range of downloadable apps (including text and facial recognition) to assist people with visual impairment.
Quick Tip: Think about the type of phone you’ll be most comfortable using. Even the best smartphones for seniors will fall short if you’d prefer a no-frills, easy-to-use cell phone.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cell Phones for Visually Impaired Seniors
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Are there cell phone apps for people with poor vision?
There is a wealth of resources and apps for the visually impaired or blind. Our in-depth smartphone accessibility guide includes details on real-time apps for scene description, objects, and faces.
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Which cell phones have a built-in Braille keyboard?
Android and Apple smartphones include an on-screen Braille keyboard so you can type Braille directly onto your phone. Both offer Grade One (six dot) and Grade Two (contracted) Braille keyboards.
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Can a cell phone help visually impaired seniors live independently?
Individuals with low vision or blindness are at risk for injury in the home, especially from dangerous falls. Help is just a button push away with health and safety plans providing 24/7 protection.
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Are there free cell phones for blind people?
If you or your loved one is a low-income individual with significant vision and hearing loss, the Federal Communications Commission’s National Deaf-Blind Equipment Distribution Program (NDBEDP), also known as iCanConnect, may be an option. iCanConnect provides equipment including mobile devices and accessories to make telecommunications
Centers for Disease Control. (2021). Vision Impairment and Older Adult Falls.
Samsung. (2021). Galaxy Mobile Accessibility.
Google. (2021). Pixel 6.
Pew Research Center. (2021). Mobile Fact Sheet.
