Setting up a new phone for an elderly parent: a checklist

A new smartphone can make it easier for your mum or dad to stay in touch, but only if it's set up to suit them. Work through this checklist together.

Make it easy to see and hear

• Turn up the text size and make text bold in the display settings.
• Increase the ringtone and call volume, and turn on vibration.
• Remove apps they won't use from the home screen, so the important ones are easy to find.

Make calling simple

• Add family and important contacts, with photos so they're easy to recognise.
• Put favourite contacts on the home screen as shortcuts.
• Set up an emergency contact and Medical ID, which can be seen from the lock screen.
• Practise a video call together, from both ends.

Keep them safe

• Set a screen lock they can remember, such as a fingerprint or face unlock.
• Turn on spam call and message filtering.
• Show them how to forward scam texts to 7726. Our scam text guide explains the warning signs.
• Agree a family rule: never send money because of a message, without a phone call first.

Before you leave

• Write down the steps for the three things they'll do most, in their own words.
• Make sure the phone is backed up, so photos and contacts aren't lost.
• Check they know how to charge it and where the charger is.

Live too far away to do this yourself? We can visit your parent, set the phone up with them for £41, and send you a note afterwards.