Real stories
People with dementia try out easy-to-use mobile and landline phones
People with dementia in Peterborough tell us what they think about dementia-friendly smartphones and landline handsets.
Peterborough’s Dementia Resource Centre offers a one-stop shop for advice, information and support.
We headed there to try out some phones from our shop that are designed to be simple to use.
The group had recently done training in using devices and the internet. So, they were keen to get their hands and ears on the smartphone and landline phones that we brought them.
Mobile phone use
Everyone in the group said they use a smartphone – a mobile phone with a touchscreen that gives access to the internet.
They told us about a vast range of good and bad experiences with their current mobiles. They all used their phones differently, with different levels of confidence.
Some feel relatively comfortable with their mobile. This includes Chris, who describes himself as quite ‘tech- savvy’ and uses his to play word games and take photos.
But others said they’re frequently flummoxed by their smartphone and need help from someone else to work things out.

Sharon told us about a recent stressful incident with her smartphone.
‘I needed to call my husband about some urgent family news and I was so confused my phone, I couldn’t remember how to do it.’
Grahame also feels unconfident at times.
‘I get by on my phone – I like taking photos. I can do something if I need to,’ he said.
But I often need to ask my granddaughter to give me advice!
A few people said they’d got rid of their landline and rely on their mobile. However, most of the group still have a landline phone.
Norma told us about the simple layout of hers and its special features. ‘It lights up and pings, and a voice says, “Have you taken your medication?”‘
Accessible smartphone
We showed the group the S510 Swissvoice smartphone.
It’s meant for anyone who wants the whizz-bang features of a smartphone, but without needing to learn a lot of new things to use it. It’s halfway between a regular smartphone and some other very simple phones available in our shop.
It has an SOS assistance button, extra-loud ringer and large screen. You can also add photos for three favourite contacts on the screen, so you can call them easily.
At the moment, the phones come without a SIM card. But it does come with a charging base that’s designed so it’s hard to knock over accidentally.
Testing smartphone features
Group members tested its features by making calls and sending text and voice-to-text messages. They also asked about its camera, since taking photos is one the most important things they do with their phones.
The simple layout was an instant hit with everyone. Many found this mobile easier to navigate than their existing smartphone.
‘I’d love this,’ said Norma. ‘My daughter bought me my phone, but I don’t get on with it.’
People have tried to explain it to me, but they do it too quickly and I forget.
Graham agreed, ‘I forget how to use things. They have to be really, really simple. I would love to use a more complex phone, but I can’t.’

S510 Swissvoice smartphone
Cost considerations
Cost is always an issue with sophisticated technology – people need to feel confident about getting good value. Group members also spoke about the challenges of adapting to new devices.
Richard said, ‘I like the fact the screen is very clear and easy to use – but it’s new, that’s the problem.’
I’m used to my phone. I don’t want to learn how to use a new one!
Simple phone layout
Alan found the size of the buttons on the touchscreen particularly helpful, as he has a tremor in his hands. He tried sending text messages, also using pre-filled messages and voice-to-text.
‘Most of the time on my current phone, I aim for a button and miss and end up sending all sorts of messages,’ he said.
‘My phone used to be my life. Now if I want to send a message, I have to ask for help.’
I particularly like the way this phone prompts you to check you’re happy with what you’re sending.
Maria added, ‘I think the voice-to- text option would be really helpful for me and the SOS button too, as I’ve had two falls recently and would have found it helpful then.’
Norma and Alan were so keen on the mobile that they took handsets away to test at home.
Later, Alan’s granddaughter told us, ‘He’s getting on much better with it than his current phone so will be swapping over.’
Norma added, ‘With a bit more practice I think it will work for me. I am definitely going to buy one and I’m hoping my grandson will come over and help me!’

Big button corded telephone from Amplicomms
Dementia-friendly landlines
The group tried out the Big button corded telephone from Amplicomms and Cordless telephone with answer machine from Swissvoice.
Everyone found these clear and easy to use, with their simple layouts and loud ringtones.

Cordless telephone with answer machine from Swissvoice
Trevor and Maria were particularly impressed by the photo buttons on both phones.
‘I have a regular landline phone and I only have it for emergencies. The buttons would be useful if I did need to make an urgent call,’ said Maria.
Again, price and familiarity came up as issues.
‘My landline has everything I need, and only cost £29,’ said Graham.
This phone is nice but price is a consideration for me.
However Trevor said, ‘I love anything that supports me to do the simple tasks that I used to so easily before dementia.’
Product prices
- Swissvoice S510 mobile, with tabletop charger, USB cable and lanyard – £179.99 including VAT.
- Swissvoice S510 magnetic charging cable – £9.99 including VAT.
- Big button corded telephone from Amplicomms – £39.99 including VAT.
- Cordless telephone with answer machine from Swissvoice – £69.99 including VAT.
You can buy these specially designed products and many others VAT free if they’re for use by a person with dementia or other conditions, saving 20%. Tick the box stating that you’re eligible for VAT relief at checkout.
Helpful everyday products
Browse our shop for this and many other products that help living with dementia.