Getting a tablet can be a great way for seniors to stay connected to loved ones through video calling, browse the internet, read ebooks, stream movies and more. But with so many tablet options out there, it can be tricky to determine which one is the most senior-friendly.
In this guide, we’ll review the key factors to keep in mind when picking out a tablet for elderly users. We’ll also provide tablet recommendations across operating systems and budget ranges to suit different needs and preferences.
What To Look For In a Tablet For Seniors
Here are some of the most important considerations when selecting a tablet for senior citizens:
Screen Size: A screen that is at least 8 inches makes it easier to see content, especially if the senior has visual impairments. Larger screens around 10 inches are ideal.
Weight: Pick a lightweight tablet that is comfortable to hold, especially if the senior has arthritis or hand mobility issues. Tablets that weigh 1-1.5 lbs or less are manageable for most.
Operating System: Choose an OS the senior is already familiar with, like iOS for iPad or Android. This makes the learning curve simpler.
Price: Tablets range widely in price. High-end models have better specs but are pricier, while more affordable options work well for basic functions. Set a budget before you shop.
Battery Life: Look for a tablet that promises at least 10 hours of battery per charge, reducing the need to frequently plug it in.
Storage Space: For media storage, opt for at least 32GB. Many tablets also have SD card slots to expand storage.
Best Tablets For Seniors: Our Top 6 Picks
Based on the above criteria, here are our recommendations on the best tablets for the elderly:
1. Apple iPad 10th Generation
Best Overall
The newest iPad model is easy to use right out of the box thanks to its intuitive iPadOS interface. It sports a vibrant 10.9 inch Liquid Retina display, ideal for movies and FaceTime calls. The A14 Bionic chip keeps apps speedy and responsive. Touch ID and Apple Pay provide secure access. With 10+ hours of battery life and Apple Pencil support, it’s a fantastic all-round tablet choice for seniors invested in the Apple ecosystem.
Display: 10.9 inches
Weight: 1.05 lbs
2. Samsung Galaxy Tab A8
Best Android Tablet
This budget-friendly Samsung tablet runs on Android 12 with One UI 4.1 for smooth performance. Its 10.5 inch screen and quad Dolby Atmos speakers make it great for multimedia. Long-lasting battery, robust parental controls, and Knox security features allow seniors to browse and stream content safely. Expandable storage is handy for housing photos and videos.
Display: 10.5 inches
Weight: 1.11 lbs
3. Amazon Fire HD 10
Best Budget Tablet
The Fire HD 10 tablet proves you don’t have to spend a fortune on a device for seniors. It costs less than $200 yet handles entertainment tasks smoothly. Browsing the web, listening to audiobooks, controlling Alexa smart devices, and video calling with its 2MP camera are all easy on its 10 inch screen. Greater accessibility features are available for low vision and hearing impaired individuals.
Display: 10 inches
Weight: 1.1 lbs
4. Microsoft Surface Go 3
Best 2-in-1
This 2-in-1 device transforms from tablet to laptop with its detachable keyboard (sold separately). Its 10.5 inch PixelSense touch display works great in tablet mode while the keyboard lets seniors tackle productivity tasks like writing emails with ease. Impressively portable at just 1.2 lbs and extremely flexible, it’s perfect for seniors who want maximum versatility.
Display: 10.5 inches
Weight: 544g/1.2 lbs (615g/1.35 lbs with keyboard)
5. Lenovo Tab M8 HD
Best Smaller Option
Sometimes less is more when picking out senior tech. The pocketable Lenovo Tab M8 saves money but still delivers smart features seniors want, like an 8 inch HD display, Dolby Atmos sound and facial recognition login. Great value without skimping on battery life or storage space, it hits the sweet spot for casual use.
Display: 8 inches
Weight: 355g/0.78lbs
6. Samsung Galaxy Tab S7 FE
Best Screen Size
At 12.4 inches diagonally, the expansive screen on this Samsung tablet leaves plenty of room for easy viewing and navigation. Light enough to hold at 1.34 lbs, its huge display showcases movies and photos beautifully. Seniors will also love the S Pen stylus included for writing and creating art on-screen. Large yet still portable, it’s great for seeing content clearly.
Display: 12.4 inches
Weight: 1.34 lbs
Accessibility Features For Seniors
Most tablets include a range of accessibility options to make it easier for seniors to see, hear and interact with them clearly. Here are some useful settings to take advantage of:
- Vision: Zoom/Magnification, Display Size, High Contrast Text, VoiceOver (iOS), TalkBack (Android)
- Hearing: Subtitles/Closed Captions, Mono Audio, LED Flash Alerts
- Dexterity: Touch Accommodations, AssistiveTouch, Switch Control
- Cognition: Guided Access, Simple Home Screen, Easy Mode
Make sure to customize accessibility to suit individual impairment needs. For fuller device access, also consider add-ons like hearing aids.
Tablet vs Laptop: Which Is Better For Seniors?
Determining whether a tablet or laptop is the best fit comes down to weighing convenience against functionality:
Tablets pros: Intuitive touchscreens, extreme portability, built-in cameras/mics, affordable choices, better battery life
Laptop pros: Easier typing with full keyboards, ability to run more powerful programs and connect peripherals, larger storage capacities
Tablets work very well for light computing tasks like communication, entertainment, social media and web browsing which are common senior activities. Their compact size, touch interfaces and battery life make them simpler to transport and interact with around the home.
However, seniors who want to do intensive productivity (like running office suites), store huge media libraries or leverage the precision of a mouse/trackpad may gravitate towards laptops.
Evaluate which device aligns better with the senior‘s needs and abilities before deciding.
Tips For Seniors Using Tablets
Here are some tablet tips to help elderly users fully utilize theirs:
- Set up email/video calling before gifting them the tablet to ensure easy communication
- Add Google Assistant (Android) or Siri (iOS) for hands-free voice control
- Show them accessibility options to configure from the start
- Familiarize them with the device through demos and user manuals
- Buy a protective case and screen protector to prevent damage
- Set reminders for security updates and device charging to keep things running smoothly
- Encourage them to explore age-friendly apps like audiobooks, memory trainers and more
- Let them personalize it with wallpapers, ringtones and widgets they enjoy
FAQs About Tablets For Seniors
Q: What size tablet is best for seniors?
A: Look for a tablet with at least 8-10 inch screen for comfortable viewing. Large tablets like 12 inches work well too provided they aren’t too heavy for the senior to hold.
Q: Which app is the easiest to use for seniors?
A: Many accessibility apps provide simplified interfaces for seniors, like Big Launcher, Simple Contacts Pro or CareZone. For starters, leverage built-in accessibility features on their tablet. Video chat apps tend to be senior-friendly.
Q: What accessories are helpful for senior tablet use?
A: Protective cases, screen shields, stylus pens, lap desks, tablet pillow stands and Bluetooth keyboards can make tablets easier to handle. Some tablets work with smart docks to replicate a computer experience.
Q: Should seniors get 3G/4G tablets?
A: Yes – it allows web access from anywhere without hunting for WiFi hotspots. This keeps seniors connected on-the-go so they can reach emergency services if need be. Built-in GPS lets relatives pinpoint a senior‘s location through tablets too.
We hope this guide gave you a broad look at picking the right tablet for your aging loved one. Focus on their impaired abilities, tech comfort levels, and usage interests first. An appropriately chosen tablet can vastly improve a senior‘s quality of life and independence.
