Best Seniors Tablets

Tablets are very versatile devices; you can use them for work, and you can use them for leisure. It is sort of a mix of everything. A tablet can be your TV, phone, laptop, radio, books, gaming console, etc. Why buy all those gadgets when you can buy a tablet?

Top 6 Tablets For Seniors

What Features Should Seniors Look For in a Tablet?

Seniors should look for tablets that offer the following features to meet their specific needs:

1. Large Screen with Adjustable Text Size: A screen size that is comfortable to read and adjustable text size options for easier visibility.
2. Simple User Interface (UI): An intuitive interface with large icons and clear navigation menus that are easy to understand and use.
3. Long Battery Life: A tablet with a long battery life to minimize the need for frequent charging, ideally lasting through a day of moderate use.
4. Lightweight Design: A lightweight tablet that is easy to hold and carry, reducing strain on the hands and wrists.
5. Accessibility Options: Features such as voice commands, screen magnifiers, or text-to-speech capabilities that enhance accessibility for seniors with visual or hearing impairments.
6. Good Performance: Smooth performance for basic tasks like web browsing, email, video calls, and using common apps without lag or frustration.
7. Security Features: Robust security measures to protect against viruses, malware, and unauthorized access, ensuring safe use of personal information and online activities.
8. Compatibility with Other Devices: Compatibility with other devices seniors may already use, such as smartphones or computers, to facilitate seamless integration and data sharing.

Which Operating System is Better For Seniors: iOS (Apple)or Android?

The choice between iOS (Apple), Android, or another operating system for seniors largely depends on their familiarity with technology and specific needs. Here’s a breakdown to consider:

1. iOS (Apple):
   • Pros: Known for its intuitive user interface, stability, and strong accessibility features. Apple devices are often praised for their ease of use and seamless integration with other Apple products.
   • Cons: Typically higher in cost compared to some Android devices. Customization options are more limited than Android.
2. Android:
   • Pros: Offers a wide range of devices at various price points, including budget-friendly options. Android allows for greater customization with widgets, themes, and app choices.
   • Cons: Interface can vary between manufacturers (Samsung, Google, etc.), which may be confusing for some users. Security can also vary based on the device and manufacturer.
3. Other Operating Systems (e.g., Amazon Fire OS):
   • Pros: Often tailored for specific use cases, such as media consumption or affordability. May offer simpler interfaces and direct integration with Amazon services.
   • Cons: Limited app ecosystem compared to iOS and Android. May lack some mainstream apps or features found on other platforms.

Choosing the Best OS for Seniors:

• Familiarity: If the senior already uses other Apple products like iPhones or Macs, sticking with iOS may provide a seamless experience.
• Simplicity: For those new to technology or seeking straightforward usability, iOS is generally easier to navigate.
• Budget: Android offers a wider range of price options, making it more accessible for those on a budget.
• Customization: If the senior prefers customization options and flexibility in device features, Android may be preferred.

Ultimately, the best tablet operating system for seniors depends on their comfort level with technology, budget, and specific preferences for features like customization, ecosystem integration, and ease of use.

Fun & Productive Tablet Apps For Seniors

• Audible – users can listen to professionally narrated books across various genres, including fiction, non-fiction, and self-help.
• Last Pass – Password Manager that remembers all of your passwords for you and fills them automatically.
• Sudoku – Challenge yourself with various difficulty levels by playing the world-famous puzzle game Sudoku.
• Words with Friends Game – Engage in thrilling word battles with friends or opponents, showcase your vocabulary prowess, and strategize for victory. It’s a great game for families.
• Spotify – Allows you to discover new music and podcasts; you can listen to them online and offline. You can create playlists and save your favorite podcasts.
• YouTube – videos that cater to every taste and interest imaginable. Dive into a bottomless pit of cat videos, masterful makeup tutorials, jaw-dropping travel vlogs, and epic fails that will have you laughing till your stomach hurts.
• Elevate – this app offers personalized brain training exercises that challenge and enhance your mental prowess. Use engaging and adaptive challenges to sharpen your critical thinking, reading comprehension, math skills, and more.

Must-Have Tablet Accessories For Seniors

Sometimes tablets can get heavy on the hands, and it’s a good idea to get a stand for your tablet to enjoy a hands-free experience when you watch long videos and movies.

Tablets Stand Flippy

Flippy Tablet Stand has three viewing angles. It will work with any tablet on the list(compatible with all devices from 5 to 13 inches). It is great for bed, sofa, chair, desk and even lap. It’s a multifunctional stand. It can be used for reading, watching videos and movies, scrolling social media, etc. It’s made from soft material and has a small pocket in the middle where you can place a charger, wire, and other accessories.

Tablet Floor Stand

Samhousing tablet floor stand is compatible with tablets and phones between 4.7-13 inches. The stand’s height can be adjusted in a range of 27.5-53 inches, and the bracket is 360-degree rotatable, allowing users to switch from portrait mode to landscape mode. It’s made out of carbon steel, so it would last long.

Fun Podcasts For Seniors

Podcasts are the new radio; they are fun and educational, but you need to find the right ones for you. Here are some of the most popular podcasts for senior audiences:

• Living To 100 Club is a podcast hosted by Dr. Casciani, who inspires people to age well and invites you to reshape your views on aging.
• The Moth is A collection of real people sharing their extraordinary and entertaining personal stories. These people are talented storytellers.
• Stuff You Missed in History Class delves into fascinating and often overlooked historical events, perfect for history buffs.
• Wait, Wait… Don’t Tell Me! Is a hilarious and informative quiz show covering current events, making the news entertaining and engaging.

Overcoming Touchscreen Challenges

Touchscreens are less responsive to senior citizens because when people age, their skin gets thinner. For some, it happens faster than others. In these cases, I recommend getting a tablet with stylus support.

In case the tablet you have chosen doesn’t have Stylus support, I recommend buying a Capacitive stylus. It will work with any touchscreen because it imitates the touch of a finger.

FAQ’s