The best phone apps for seniors

Whether you're on your first or fifth touchscreen smartphone, you'll know one of their big benefits is having access to apps. There's an app for almost anything you can think of, including social media, games, recipes, magazines, online shopping, music, movies, and more. 

Short for 'application', an app is a piece of software specially designed to be stored on and used on your mobile phone or tablet. Your phone will feature plenty of pre-installed apps, but you're also able to pick and choose your own programs to add to your device.

Since there are literally millions of mobile apps available for you to download and use, figuring out which ones you'll get the most from might be a little overwhelming - especially if you're new to smartphones. So we've compiled a list of some of our favourite, easy-to-use essential apps for seniors.

Communications apps

WhatsApp

Available on: Google Play, App Store

There are plenty of messaging apps available, but WhatsApp is one of the most consistently popular worldwide. WhatsApp is as simple to use as your phone's text messaging feature, but allows you to send text, pictures, and video using your device's data connection. This makes it an ideal message option for anyone with family and friends overseas, as sending texts and media internationally is absolutely free. 

In fact, other than the small amount of data used to send and receive messages, WhatsApp is entirely free to use - so if you don't have international texting included on your mobile plan, it's a cheap and fun option for staying in touch. 

Simple Social

Available on: Google Play

Unfortunately, this app is currently only available to Android users. But if that's you, Simple Social is 'app-tly' named: it's one of the easiest ways to simplify and navigate your social media accounts, especially Facebook.

The Simple Social app allows you to view all your social media from one platform. It features a user-friendly, streamlined interface that's great for browsing Facebook, and gives you quick and easy access to Facebook's Messenger from within the same app. You can also use your Simple Social account to access Twitter and Google+, with Instagram integration coming soon.

Basically, if you're keen to get involved with social media, but put off by the complexity of the Facebook app, Simple Social may be worth a try. It's also much less battery-intensive than Facebook's official app, meaning your phone will last longer between charges. 

Apps for over-50s

NSW Seniors Card

Available on: Google Play, App Store

While this might not be of much help if you don't live in NSW, the Seniors Card app is a simple way to stay up-to-date on the deals and discounts your card affords you. 

You can search by categories including household needs, shopping, leisure, and professional services for nearby businesses offering Seniors Card prices and specials, with all results featuring maps and directions.

Deals are searchable by suburb and postcard, and users can bookmark their favourite businesses and offers for later viewing. The app itself is designed for use by seniors, with a simple interface and on-screen instructions provided on your first use.

Apps for news and current affairs

Flipboard

Available on: Google Play, App Store

Find the news and stories that interest you the most with Flipboard, a free app that collects and curates articles from thousands of publications worldwide. Users can select their preferred topics, create personalised 'magazines' for various subjects, and stay up-to-date on Australian and international news.

Featured newspapers and magazines include The New York Times, Reuters, The Wall Street Journal, The Washington Post, CNN, National Geographic, Vanity Fair, Rolling Stone, and many more. Once you've selected the sources and topics you'd like to explore, Flipboard automatically pushes content to your app's home screen. It's like having a personalised news stand you can take anywhere. 

Apps for travel and lifestyle

50 Something 

Available on: Google Play, App Store

If you're looking for some light on-the-go reading, mixed with current affairs and news relevant to over-50s, The 50Something app is worth checking out. Published by National Seniors Australia, 50Something is an award-winning lifestyle magazine that covers everything from politics and news, to celebrities and art.

Inside you'll also find advice on finance, relationships, and lifestyle, plus up-to-date info on the government policies that may affect you. There's also plenty of inspiring content, with profiles on the achievements of 50-plus activists, entrepreneurs, adventurers, and artists.

50Something is free to download and use, and is available in over 20 languages for both Android and iPhone/iPad. 

Citymapper

Available on: Google Play, App Store

If you're planning to rely on public transport for the duration of your trip, CityMapper is a travel essential. This free app covers dozens of popular major cities in five continents, combining real-time information on transit systems with maps, traffic routes, and more.

Simply input your start point and final destination, and let CityMapper's GPS do all the planning. The app will combine train, bus, ferry, taxi, or on-foot routes to find the quickest, easiest and most convenient way to get where you're going. You'll also receive live alerts for service changes, transport arrivals, and when it's time to depart. You can also order ride-sharing services such as Uber directly from the app, plus save your favourite locations and trips for easy access. 

FourSquare City Guide

Available on: Google Play, App Store

Live like a local - or at least avoid the more tourist-heavy attractions - with FourSquare's free City Guide. This app is perfect for finding restaurants, bars, coffee shops, and nightlife near you, whatever city you're in. 

Built on tips and reviews from the FourSquare community, users can search by variables such as location or cuisine, so it's a great way to find a bite to eat in an unfamiliar city. You can log places you've visited, keep a list of to-visit locations, rate cafes and restaurants you've tried, and get personalised recommendations on where to go next. You can also follow other users in the FourSquare community, and get extra tips on WiFi hotspots, secret menus, and much more. 

Google Translate

Available on: Google Play, App Store

A language barrier shouldn't stop you exploring the world; fortunately, Google Translate now makes communication in foreign countries easier than ever, without the need for prior language skills. This free app offers text translation between 103 languages (53 of which can be translated offline), plus instant camera translation of text found in images.

You can also use Translate to assist with live cross-cultural conversation in 32 languages: no need to flip through a phrasebook, simply switch on Translate, point your phone and start chatting. While some words and sentence meanings are occasionally lost in translation, it's a quick and easy way to simplify communication in stores, restaurants, hotels, and on the street. 

Currency by ANZ

Available on: Google Play, App Store

You don't need to be an ANZ customer to take advantage of the company's excellent, 100% free foreign exchange and currency conversion app. In addition to offering easy conversions of manually input currency amounts, you can also use Currency's scanner to access instant on-screen conversions of foreign currency through your phone's camera.

Point the scanner at a price tag or any listed price info, and you'll receive a live conversion into Aussie dollars. It's an awesome feature for travellers, and although all rates are mid-market, it's still a great way to keep on-budget and avoid overspending when you're overseas. 

Flush

Available on: Google Play, App Store

In many ways, Flush is perhaps the most invaluable app here. 100% free to use, Flush is your pocket public toilet finder, listing more than 190,000 restrooms in cities around the world. 

The Flush app uses your phone's GPS to pinpoint your location, then directs you to the nearest public loo. You can check beforehand which toilets have disabled access, require a key or code, or are for 'customers only', and the app's restroom database is regularly updated by thousands of users. Flush can also be used without an internet connection, provided your location has been pre-loaded to the app - a real lifesaver in your hour of need. 

Goodreads

Available on: Google Play, App Store

If curling up with a good book sounds like the perfect way to spend your downtime, this is the app for you. Goodreads calls itself 'a social network for readers', and with over 35 million users, it's a great (and free!) way to discover, rate, and discuss books from every genre.

App users will enjoy personal recommendations, book reviews and lists; can rate and review their own reading choices; and create to-read lists easily thanks to the in-built barcode scanner. Goodreads is a simple way to keep track of what you have and haven't read, find new authors and titles to fall in love with, and join online discussions on your favourite books and writers. 

Apps for health

Health Direct

Available on: Google Play, App Store

Supported by the Commonwealth and State governments, Health Direct is a simple, 100% doctor-approved source of health information and advice. It's a helpful tool for finding local practitioners (especially after-hours), and includes an easy-to-follow Symptom Checker.

Health Direct also includes factual, clinically-reviewed information on health conditions and medications. You can use the app to research and find health services near you, learn more about your current prescriptions, or determine the seriousness of symptoms when you're unwell - so although it's no substitute for a professional consult, it's an empowering tool for Australians wanting to take control of their health. 

Health Engine

Available on: Google Play, App Store

Health Engine is the easy and free way to book and manage appointments with doctors, specialists and health practitioners. With a database of more than 11,000 registered clinics and services, the app simplifies the process of finding the right practice and appointment time for any health issue.

Health Engine allows users to find and book appointments instantly at any time, plus reschedule or cancel easily. You'll also get information on practitioners and health services, patient reviews, and directions to facilities. If you find yourself regularly juggling doctor's appointments, Health Engine is the simplest way to manage your health care 24/7. 

Apps for brain training

Luminosity

Available on: Google Play, App Store

Developed by scientists and designers, Luminosity is a fun, challenging way to test and strengthen your brain. The free app includes over 40 specially-developed games, designed to test your core cognitive abilities.

Luminosity's mix of problem solving games, puzzles, memory tests, critical thinking and logic teasers adapt to your own abilities and patterns, so you can continue to work on the areas that need improving. You'll receive feedback on your strengths and weaknesses, plus a record of your achievements so far, so you'll always be motivated to beat that high score. If you're concerned about future cognitive decline, or just want a fun game with brain-boosting benefits, Luminosity is one of our favourites. 

Peak

Available on: Google Play, App Store

Peak is an award-winning brain-training app that uses fun, addictive games and puzzles to provide an effective cognitive workout. Designed with input from neuroscientists and educators, Peak's daily challenges focus on areas such as memory, problem solving, attention, language, and mental agility, and are a great way to test, maintain and improve your cognitive function.

Once you've signed up, you'll receive a daily program of brain games to complete, plus feedback and training statistics so you can track your progress. You'll learn where you need to improve, and be given the tools and exercises to do so, with over 35 specialised games available. Peak is free to download and use, but you can upgrade to the premium version for a monthly or yearly subscription fee. 

Apps for exercise and fitness

MapMyWalk

Available on: Google Play, App Store

Walking is one the easiest, cheapest and accessible ways to stay in shape, or amp up your existing fitness goals. And whether you're a beginner or a seasoned power-walker, MapMyWalk is the perfect free tool to keep track of your progress. 

The app allows users to track and discover walking routes, save and improve on distance and time, record additional statistics such as pace, elevation and calories/kilojoules burned, and connect with other MapMyWalk users. There's even options for tracking other activities, such as running, cycling, cross training, or yoga, so all your favourite fitness options are covered. 

Daily Yoga

Available on: Google Play, App Store

If you'e looking for a beginner-friendly, low-impact exercise for mind and body, Daily Yoga's convenient workout plans are the gentle way to get into the practice without paying exorbitant studio fees. The app features options for new to advanced practitioners, with workouts focused on toning, weight loss, flexibility, strength, and more.

The app is free to use, although paid subscriptions are available if you're interested in premium features. In addition to detailed instructions on over 500 poses (plus 200 built-in HD yoga classes), Daily Yoga also features guided meditation and relaxation, an online community, and plenty of tools for you to track your progress.  

Apps for eating healthy (or not!)

MyFitnessPal

Available on: Google Play, App Store

Whether you're trying to lose fat, gain muscle, or simply eat better to feel better, MyFitnessPal is the ultimate app for tracking diet and exercise. With an easy-to-use daily food diary that automatically calculates the calories and nutritional value of most foods - plus a barcode scanner - it's an easy (and free) way to make healthier choices every day.

MyFitnessPal also includes tools for logging exercise and steps, so you can compare your 'calories in' and 'calories out' at a glance. Everything about the app is personalised, making it easy for users to set goals and work on positive lifestyle changes. You can also connect and sync other fitness apps and devices, add your friends, and join supportive online health and fitness communities. 

SideChef

Available on: Google Play, App Store

Looking for some recipe inspiration that's also health-conscious? SideChef is a pocket library of more than 4000 recipes, searchable by diet, ingredients, keywords or cuisine. Each meal features step-by-step instructions and videos, shopping lists, voice instruction and clever tips, with options for beginners through to masterchefs.

While there's plenty of naughty foods listed, SideChef also makes it easy to find healthy options (and adjust serving and ingredient sizes to meet your needs). The app also lets users rate and review recipes, share photos and recipes with other SideChefs, and save favourite foods to a personal cookbook. With a fun, food-focused online community and plenty of healthy meal inspiration, SideChef is a great (and free!) way to master new recipes and learn new culinary skills.  

Yummly

Available on: Google Play, App Store

If you're looking for some new inspiration, Yummly will help with over one million recipes to choose from. If that sounds overwhelming, don't panic! Yummly matches recipes to your preferences including dietary requirements and it filters out recipes with disliked ingredients. Like the Netflix of food, Yummly also learns about your tastes over time based on recipes you add to your 'yum list'. Once you've found a recipe you like you can add ingredients to your shopping list with one tap. They'll be automatically organised by category and you can add more items if you have staples to thrown in like milk or bread.

Allrecipes Dinner Spinner

Available on: Google Play, App Store

This is a fun one for people who have trouble deciding what to make for dinner. As well as letting you select and sort through recipes, the 'Dinner Spinner' will make suggestions for you if you shake your phone. The suggestions aren't completely random. You can tell it what type of meal you want (dinner, salad, etc), one key ingredient and how long you want to take in preparation. Or you can just shake with no criteria and see what happens. The Dinner Spinner also lets you favourite recipes, search by dietary needs, create an auto-categorised shopping list and it provides video instructions.

Cookpad

Available on: Google Play, App Store

Cookpad is like social network of cooking. It's a global recipe-sharing platform that lets you publish your own recipes and try out ones shared by other people. You can search for recipes by ingredient name or dish, follow individual members, and even communicate with the other cooks for advice or compliments. Become part of a cooking community, discover recipes from around the world and invite your friends and family to form a cooking social network.

Apps for sleep

Sleep Cycle

Available on: Google Play, App Store

If you've upgraded to a smartphone, why not a smart alarm clock? Sleep Cycle is a sleep tracker and morning alarm, that works with your body to find the right time to wake you each day. The app analyses your sleeping patterns and picks an optimal time during your lighter sleep phase to gently rouse you, so you're more likely to feel refreshed and fully awake.

Simply set a 30-minute window for when you need to wake up, place your phone by your bed, and Sleep Cycle does the rest - using sound and movement monitors to determine just which sleep phase you're in at all times. You'll also get access to your nightly sleep statistics, plus customisable alarm melodies. 

Apps for women's health

Breast Check Now

Available on: Google Play, App Store

With around one in eleven Australian women diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime, regular self-checks are one of the best ways to detect early changes and potentially save your life. 

So if you need a monthly reminder to give yourself a self-check - or want to refine your breast-checking technique - Breast Check Now is a simple and free app that will help you create (and stick to) a self-check plan. You'll receive monthly notifications when it's time for a self-exam, plus the option to record notes after each check so you're on top of any changes. 

Apps for mental health

Pacifica

Available on: Google Play, App Store

If you suffer from anxiety or depression - or just want to get in control of stressful or negative thinking - Pacifica is an easy-to-use, psychologist-designed app full of useful tools for managing mental health.

The app features plenty of self-help exercises, including mediation, mindfulness and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy techniques, as well as mood and thought tracking and daily challenges. Users are also part of a supportive community of peers, so you'll have plenty of resources for overcoming anxious or stressful thinking. Pacifica is free to download and use, but there are premium paid subscriptions available if you'd like unlimited access to all features.

Apps for money and banking

Pocketbook

Available on: Google Play, App Store

Pocketbook is a free, super-easy budgeting app that allows you to track your spending, set savings goals and stay on top of your finances. The award-winning app has the seal of approval from Kochie - plus various tech and finance publications - and even syncs with most Australian banks for easy viewing of your accounts. 

You can use Pocketbook to view recent transactions and keep track of upcoming bill payments, and can set alerts for low balances, overspending, and more. The app will automatically categorise and organise your spending so you can see where your money's really going, and you can even save receipts, bills and invoices for later viewing. 

With rave reviews and a user base of over 350,000 Aussies, Pocketbook is one of our favourite apps for taking the stress out of budgeting. 

Banking apps

For easy access to account info - plus the ability to make payments and transfers straight form your phone - you'll want to download your financial institution's smartphone app. All of the major banks, plus smaller institutions and credit unions, offer easy phone banking options: for more info on how to manage your finances this way, you can talk to your financial service provider. 

Games and puzzle apps

Words With Friends

Available on: Google Play, App Store

Probably the most popular vocabulary-based game for mobile devices, Words With Friends is a step up for Scrabble addicts. Free to play and download, this app follows the gameplay of Scrabble, and allows plays to compete against friends, family, and strangers with similar skill levels.

Words With Friends offers weekly challenges, solo playing for extra practice, and in-app dictionary and Word of the Day features. You can track your performance and improvement with detailed game statistics, and chat with friends in-game; plus, iPhone users can also play directly from the iMessages app. If you're a sucker for word-based puzzles, Words With Friends is a sharp, social app that will have you hooked.

Mister Smith & His Adventures

Available on: Google Play, App Store

A quiz app with a twist, Mister Smith & His Adventures is an interactive and witty adventure which sees players navigate the life story of the titular Mister Smith. Pick an adventure, and make choices on behalf of the app's hero - you can make him kind, smart, wacky, or flirty, and each option you pick leads to a different outcome.

As you work your way through tricky scenarios, you'll also be given mini trivia games to complete. These quizzes are a mix of pop culture, history, and general knowledge questions, but with the same sassy and irreverent tone as the app's main gameplay. While there are options to upgrade to a premium ad-free version, Mister Smith & His Adventures is a fun and funny mobile game that's free to play (and highly addictive). 

Accessibility tips

You shouldn't have to adapt to your smartphone. Your smartphone can adapt to you. Whether your eyes and ears need a little extra help or you just want a simpler experience, your smartphone should be able to accommodate.

Improve user friendliness

A smartphone can be an overwhelming experience if you're a new user. There are so many apps and notifications to keep track of. Fortunately, you can use an app like Wiser Launcher to make things easier.

Wiser Launcher provides a simpler, easier to navigate home screen and layout, a big dialling pad for easy calling and quick shortcuts to your favourite contacts, apps and settings.

You can install it on a phone with the Android operating system simply by going to the Play Store and searching for Wiser Launcher. Download the app and then click your phone's home button. You should be asked if you want to start using Wiser Launcher. You can choose to use it one time as a trial, or always. Unfortunately, it's not available on the iPhone.

Increase font size

If you're happy with your phone's interface but are having trouble reading that tiny text, you can increase the font size using your phone's Accessibility settings.

On iPhone:

• Go to Settings – General – Accessibility.
• Select Larger Text – On.
• Drag the slider across the screen to choose the font size you prefer.

On Android:

• Go to Settings – Accessibility.
• Select Vision – Screen zoom and font.
• Drag the slider with the title Font size across the screen to choose the font size you prefer.

Hearing aids

If you have a hearing aid, you may be better off choosing an iPhone over an Android device. Many hearing aids are "made for iPhone" and can be paired wirelessly with your iPhone via Bluetooth technology.

Android phones, on the other hand, offer only a hearing aid setting which improves the sound quality of your device for use with hearing aids.

Using a hearing aid with iPhone:

• Have your hearing aids on hand.
• Go to Settings – General – Accessibility.
• Select Hearing Aids.
• The phone will search for your hearing aids. When it finds them your name will pop up.
• Select your name – Pair.
• Repeat for the second hearing aid, if you have two.

Using a hearing aid with Android:

• Go to Settings – Accessibility.
• Select Hearing.
• Select the Hearing aids button to turn the hearing aids feature on.

Other accessibility features

Both iPhone and Android phones offer a range of other accessibility features including high contrast fonts for easy reading, flash lights for notifications and a whole lot more. It's worthwhile exploring these features to see what improvements you can make to your smartphone experience. Just visit the Accessibility menu.

On iPhone:

• Go to Settings – General – Accessibility.

On Android:

• Go to Settings – Accessibility.

Kenny McGilvary

PR & Communications Manager | X

Kenny McGilvary has been working in the world of mobile phones and internet for over a decade with companies like Telstra, Motorola and HTC, and if your memory goes back far enough, brands like O2 and Sony Ericsson. He’s your primary contact for a nugget or two of commentary and insight into the latest telco developments, and he’s also the guy to speak to about WhistleOut’s industry and consumer research campaigns.

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