How to make Android smartphones user-friendly for the elderly

Smartphones have become an integral part of our daily lives, offering connectivity, information, and entertainment at our fingertips. However, for many elderly individuals, navigating the world of smartphones can be a daunting task.

In this article, we will explore how to make Android smartphones more user-friendly for the elderly. As the aging population struggles to embrace modern technology, it is essential to ensure that these devices are accessible and intuitive for the elderly, allowing them to stay connected with loved ones, access vital information, and enjoy the benefits of modern technology. Below are the easiest ways to make Android smartphones user-friendly for the elderly:

1. Adjust the font and display size

Making the text bigger and the screen easier to read is simple:

• Open the “Settings” app.
• Look for “Font size” and use the slider to make the words bigger or smaller.
• To adjust the display size, go to “Settings,” then “Display size,” and slide the bar left or right.
• In “Settings,” you will find more options under “Accessibility”:
• “Bold Fonts” can make words stand out more.
• “High contrast text” can make the text easier to see.
• “Colour correction” and “Colour inversion” can also help.

2. Use a simple Android launcher

If you want a phone that is easy for calls, texts, and WhatsApp, try a simpler launcher like “Simple Launcher” or “BIG Launcher.” They have fewer albeit bigger icons for easy use.

3. Adjust the volume of the Android phone

Make sure you can hear well:

• Use the volume buttons.
• Tap “Menu,” then “More.”
• Slide the volume levels to make these sounds just right:
• Media volume (music and videos).
• Call volume (during calls).
• Ring and notification volume (phone calls and alerts).
• Alarm volume.
• You can also turn to vibrate or mute using the volume button.

4. Clear away unneeded icons

Clean up your Android phone by deleting apps and hiding icons you don’t need. This makes it easier to find what you want. Some of the easiest apps to clean your devices with are:

• CCleaner.
• Avast Cleanup & Boost.
• 360 Booster & Cleaner.
• Powerful Cleaner.
• Droid Optimizer.
• SD Maid.
• Files by Google.

They are easily downloaded on the Google Play app store.

5. Set up “Find my phone“

If you have a Google Account, “Find My Device” is automatically on. It helps you find your phone if it is lost.

6. Use button navigation instead of gestures

If you don’t like swiping, use buttons for navigation:

• Go to “Settings.”
• Find “System,” then “Gestures,” and choose “System navigation.”
• Pick one:
• “Gesture navigation” (no buttons).
• “2-button navigation” (two buttons for Home and Back).
• “3-button navigation” (three buttons for Home, Back, and recent apps).

7. Add up new contacts

• Open the “Contacts” or “People” app on your Android device.
• Look for a button or icon that says “Add” or “Create contact.” It’s usually represented by a plus (+) sign.
• Tap on this “Add” or “Create contact” button.
• You will be asked to enter the contact’s information. At the very least, you should enter their name and phone number.
• You can also add additional details like email, address, and more if you wish.
• After entering the information, tap the “Save” or “Done” button, typically located in the upper right corner of the screen.

That is it. You have successfully added a new contact to your Android smartphone.

8. Set up automatic call dial

This is important for emergencies, calling loved ones without finding it hard to locate their contact or even caregivers for the elderly ones.

• Unlock your Android smartphone.
• Tap the “Contacts” or “People” tab.
• Find the contact you want to add to the speed dial.
• Long-press (press and hold) the contact’s name.
• A menu should appear with an option to “Add to speed dial” or similar. Tap that option.
• Now, assign a number (usually 1 to 9) to that contact for quick dialing.

You can repeat these steps for other contacts you want to add to speed dial, using different number keys for each contact. Then, when you want to call them quickly, just press and hold the corresponding number key on your dialer, and it will initiate the call to that contact.

9. Help them listen to the radio or music of their choice

Here are some user-friendly music and radio apps available for Android users that are great for the elderly ones

• Spotify
• Pandora
• Amazon Music
• YouTube Music
• Simple Radio
• iHeartRadio

These apps have straightforward interfaces, making them suitable for elderly individuals who want to enjoy music and radios without complicated features.

10. Protecting devices from spoilage

One of the easiest ways to protect your smartphones is by getting a suitable pouch and a screen guard. Phone pouches and screen guards can be purchased at any nearest gadget store around you and will be fixed for you by the seller. Avoid taking your smartphones near liquid substances, fire and even cooking gas.

Here are the new shortcodes for data purchase, card recharge, and balance across all networks.

By implementing the tips and features discussed in this article, we can bridge the generation gap and ensure that the digital world remains accessible to all. Let us work together to create an inclusive environment for our elderly ones, making their smartphone experience as easy as possible. Make a difference in an elderly person’s life by sharing this post with the elderly around you.

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