Choosing the best iPhone for seniors takes time and careful consideration. We all want to provide our loved ones, like parents or grandparents, with high-quality devices that assist them the most efficiently.
While Apple is not always seen as the most senior-friendly brand, some iPhone models can be incredibly practical if you focus on the features they excel in. A reliable smartphone will ensure the elderly can stay connected and quickly get help in case of emergencies. Let’s explore the best Apple iPhones for seniors below.
1. Does Apple Have a Simple Phone for Seniors?
We usually assume that iPhone is more commonly used by young generations or those who are tech-savvy. However, we have several Apple phones that can perfectly be suited for senior citizens. In fact, we can also customize the devices to make them more user-friendly for seniors, particularly those with vision challenges or difficulty navigating a smartphone.
How to make an iPhone easier to use for the elderly? We can:
- Increase font size
- Use zoomed home screen
- Enable button shapes (in accessibility options)
- Increase contrast (in accessibility options)
- Reduce transparency and darken colors
- Enable reduce motion (in accessibility options)
- Activate Assistive Access (available on any iPhone or iPad that runs iOS 17 or later)
FYI, Assistive Access is a new feature that simplifies the user experience by making onscreen items larger, focusing features, making it easier to navigate and to understand what actions are possible.
2. Which iPhone Is Best for Seniors?
Among the many iPhones on the market, which is the best Apple iPhone for seniors?
Each smartphone has their own strengths and drawbacks. Let’s rate the best apple iPhone for seniors:
| Rank | Phone Model | Pros | Cons |
| 1 | Apple iPhone XR | – Large 6.1-inch display – Long battery life – Face ID – User-friendly | – Slightly heavier, not ideal for all seniors |
| 2 | Apple iPhone SE 2 | – Compact 4.7-inch screen – Affordable – Modern A13 chip – Touch ID | – Smaller screen, less ideal for visual impairments |
| 3 | Apple iPhone 8 | – Wireless charging – Compact design | – Shorter battery life compared to newer models |
| 4 | Apple iPhone 7 Plus | – 5.5-inch screen – Good performance – Dual-camera system | – Older technology, limited update support |
| 5 | Apple iPhone 6s Plus | – Large 5.5-inch display – Durable build – Headphone jack | – Limited app and software update support |
| 6 | Apple iPhone 7 | – Compact design – Affordable – Decent camera | – Small 4.7-inch screen, less ideal for visual impairments |
| 7 | Apple iPhone 6s | – Lightweight – Affordable – Headphone jack | – Outdated hardware, limited software support |
| 8 | Apple iPhone 6 Plus | – Large display – Classic design with home button – Budget-friendly | – Outdated, no support for newer apps or updates |
3. Best iPhone Deals for Seniors
There are multiple ways to grab a discounted phone. You may scout on online marketplaces or wait for special occasions like Black Friday.
However, do you know that you can get free phones for seniors? And yes, some iPhones are also available for free. The only condition is you need to apply for the federal program called Lifeline in order to access this perk.
Lifeline is a government assistance initiative, launched to help low-income individuals afford internet access. Eligible participants have a chance to get a free smartphone if they apply for Lifeline via a service provider, such as AirTalk Wireless.
Do note that you won’t directly receive a device from the government. Only through a third-party provider that you may receive a free phone as an exclusive perk.
Here’s how to get your free phone from your trusted provider AirTalk Wireless:
Eligibility
To qualify for Lifeline and get a free iPhone, seniors must meet one of these criteria:
- Their income or their household’s income is at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines
- OR if they are participants in one of these government assistance programs:
- Food Stamps / Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
- Section 8 Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA)
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Medicaid
- Veterans Pension or Survivors Pension
- Tribally-Administered Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TTANF)
- Head Start (Tribal only, meeting qualifying income standards)
- Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance
- Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR)
Application steps
The application process on AirTalk only takes 5 simple steps:
- Head to AirTalk Wireless website, enter your zip code and Apply Now
- Choose a phone plan
- Pick a free phone (iPhone, Samsung, Motorola, etc.)
- Upload copies of proof (proof of identity, proof of participation or proof of income)
- Wait for your delivery in 7-10 business days after approval.
You may also be pleased to know that AirTalk Wireless also provides subsidized phone and tablet combos.
Find out more about the Lifeline application on AirTalk Wireless HERE.
Read more: Top 7 Best Cell Phone For Seniors: An Exclusive List
Final Words
Finding the best iPhone for seniors is about balancing functionality, ease of use, and accessibility. While newer iPhones offer advanced features, older models can still provide excellent performance at a more affordable price.
You should take the time to explore options and customize the iPhone to suit their specific needs. Meanwhile, don’t forget to regularly check AirTalk Wireless collection of iPhones to get your favorite device and other exclusive perks!