Tablets for Seniors

How Are Seniors Embracing Tablets and Technology?

Technology has sometimes challenged seniors, but it’s also been a great help to them as well.

For instance, a resounding 85 percent of 50- to 64-year-olds (and 61 percent of the 65+ group) own smartphones; and a whopping 96 percent of those ages 50 to 64 (and 75 percent of those ages 65 and older) are regular internet users.1 About 17 percent of seniors have dabbled with online dating sites and apps.2

Older adults may enjoy using the internet on computers, but increasingly they are searching, shopping and playing Wordle online on their tablets. AARP says that over 59 percent of seniors already own tablets.3 Others who are interested question whether they need one if they have a computer at home.

What Are the Benefits of Using Tablets for Seniors?

Tablets are especially senior-friendly, as they require minimal instruction and technical know-how. Traditional computers have more complex operating systems while tablets minimize unnecessary complications and provide a more streamlined experience. They often feel like using a smartphone with a large screen.

So, what are other benefits of having a tablet rather than (or in addition to) a laptop? Here are some of the advantages:

• Easy to learn: Tablets offer touch-screen interfaces and intuitive navigation.
• Portability: Tablets are thinner, lighter, and more portable than laptops. That means more convenience for you!
• Battery life: Their mobile chips are optimized for efficiency, which means you can listen to your favorite jazz songs, browse on the web, watch videos of the grandkids, and send and receive emails without worrying about running out of battery power.
• Connectivity: You can easily create and consume content on the go.
• More affordable: tablets are often more affordable than laptops or desktop computers.
• Better cameras: Tablets often have high-quality cameras and they’re easy to hold, so you can take photos or make video calls.

Tablets can perform many functions and appeal to the diverse interests of seniors. Here are things seniors might appreciate doing with their tablets:

• Ordering food delivery to their homes
• Getting personal transportation arranged through Uber, Lyft, or other services
• Taking e-classes
• Conferring with their doctors on telemedicine calls
• Reading e-books, listening to music, and playing games
• Streaming their favorite TV shows and movies on Android tablets or iPads through dedicated apps
• Connecting with family and friends

One of the biggest uses older adults have for tablets, much like for smartphones and laptops, involves searching for and accessing information. Here are some of our popular guides to check out with your tablet:

• A Guide to Internet for Seniors
• Best Websites for Seniors
• Complete List of Activities for Seniors
• Statistics About Seniors
• Senior Travel and Vacations
• Senior Discounts

What Are the Drawbacks of Using Tablets for Seniors?

A computer has a more powerful processor and greater storage. A few other drawbacks of a tablet to keep in mind include:

• Typing discomfort: While touch screens are great, some people prefer the tactile feedback of a traditional keyboard, especially for extended writing. Laptops have traditional keyboards, which are easier on the fingers according to ergonomic principles. (Note that Windows tablets often include physical keyboards, or you can buy a keyboard separately!)
• Hard to keep up with updates: Tablets receive more software updates than laptops, which can be problematic for seniors. This isn’t about their lack of ability to learn, but the cognitive effort required to continually adapt to rapid tech changes, which can be taxing.
• Limited accessibility and special equipment: If you use any special keyboards, trackballs, or screen readers, as many older adults do, you might choose a laptop over a tablet. Generally speaking — but not in all cases — laptops work better with and are more compatible with the assistive devices and peripherals that some seniors need.

How to Choose the Right Tablet for You

Your choice will depend on your preferences, budget, and other factors. When determining the best tablet for yourself or a senior in your life, after considering which lightweight model is best for you and which make and design you’re most comfortable with, we suggest you look specifically for the following:

• Screen quality is one of the most important considerations when selecting the best tablet for older adults. High-resolution displays are best, since they offer clearer images and cause less eye strain.
• Choose a large screen (ideally 9 inches or more) so that the text and images are easier to decipher, especially for older adults grappling with vision challenges.
• Accessibility features like configurable font size, contrast settings, zoom features, and adjustable brightness can create optimal comfort for a senior with vision loss. Thanks to assistive technology, voice control and text-to-speech features on tablets can enhance the usability of the tablets for older family members and neighbors who have arthritis or dexterity issues.

Expert Insights

From Taylor Shuman, Senior Tech Expert

One of the most important factors I recommend for seniors to consider when choosing a tablet is its weight. If you or a senior loved one has arthritis or dexterity issues, a heavy tablet could cause pain or discomfort and be difficult to use on the go. Luckily, most tablets are lightweight, but it’s still important to consider.

What Are Some of the Best Tablets for Seniors?

Seniors who love Apple products will appreciate the intuitive design and simplicity of an iPad. Those who love Android devices will enjoy more tablet choices, built-in Google apps, and access to the biggest app store around. It’s larger than the Apple App Store and Windows Store combined.5

Below is an overview of some of the best tablets for seniors:

• Consumer Cellular’s GrandPad: Designed with seniors in mind and with an emphasis on communication and safety, it has a user-friendly interface with large icons and limited features. It costs $299. This tablet also has advanced safety features and can be accessed by caregivers and loved ones. Read our GrandPad review to learn more.
• Amazon Fire HD 10: A budget-friendly option that’s good for basic tasks and entertainment. Costs range from $149 to $229.
• Google Pixel Tablet: This tablet offers a clean Android experience and integrates well with other Google products. Prices typically range from $499 to $599.
• Apple iPad (10th Gen): A more budget-friendly Apple option good for everyday tasks like web browsing, email, and general use. It costs $499 to $599.
• Apple iPad Air (6th Gen): This tablet offers a brighter, higher-res display and more powerful processor, making it good for creative work, gaming, and media watching. Costs range from $699 to $999.
• Samsung Galaxy Tab S9: This tablet has a vibrant screen with excellent color and an S pen that can be used for writing, drawing, and controlling the tablet. It costs $799 to $1,199.
• Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra: This top-of-the-line tablet has a large and high-resolution screen that’s great for watching movies and videos. Costs vary from $999 to $1,499.
• Apple iPad Pro (M2): This tablet offers industry-leading performance, a supersharp display, and ProMotion, which makes photos, videos, and text glide smoothly for viewing. Prices range from $1,099 to $1,899.
• Microsoft Surface Pro: This Windows model is portable with the touch screen of a tablet and can be used with a keyboard like a laptop. It’s priced at $1,499.99.

Keep in mind that the prices listed above will vary based on your region, the retailer, and special sales and promotions. Also note these are the base models. Higher storage capacities and other features will translate to higher prices.