Tablet for older people: how to choose one for easy video calls

When choosing a tablet for an older person, it is tempting to start with brand, storage or price. For calls and video calls, one thing matters more: can the person use it confidently without needing help every time?

An expensive tablet can still be a poor choice if it creates too many steps. A modest device can work brilliantly when it is set up well.

1. Choose a screen that is easy to see and handle

A larger screen makes faces, names and controls easier to recognise. For home use, a tablet can be more comfortable than a small phone, but avoid something so large or heavy that it becomes awkward to hold.

2. Wi‑Fi or cellular: think about where it will be used

If the tablet stays at home with reliable Wi‑Fi, Wi‑Fi may be all you need. If it moves between homes, care settings or places without dependable Wi‑Fi, a cellular model with a SIM can remove one source of friction.

3. Camera, speakers and volume

You do not need a flagship camera for family video calls. A decent front camera, clear speakers and easy-to-find volume controls are usually more useful.

4. Make charging effortless

Good battery life helps, but a permanent charging spot can help even more. A stable stand near a socket can turn the tablet into a familiar part of the room.

5. Simplify the home screen

Remove unnecessary apps, reduce notifications, increase text size where helpful and keep everyday actions visible. Fewer choices usually mean fewer opportunities to get lost.

6. Use familiar faces, not just icons

For someone who is not used to app symbols, a photograph of a daughter, son or grandchild may be much easier to understand than an abstract icon.

7. Do not forget digital safety

A connected tablet can still expose a user to unwanted messages, links and contacts depending on the apps installed. Review permissions, control who can get in touch and agree simple family rules.

Read our guide to digital scams targeting older people and our guide to making video calls easier for older relatives.

Do you need a special senior tablet?

Not necessarily. Many families can reuse a tablet they already own. Before buying another device, try simplifying the current one: home screen, sound, shortcuts, connectivity and apps.

The hardware is only part of the experience. What the person sees when they switch it on matters even more.

Where does Mamá Lola fit?

Mamá Lola is designed to create a simple, protected family space on everyday devices. The family sets up the environment and decides which people are authorised.

The same principle is useful beyond older people: Mamá Lola is also designed for children aged 0–10 who benefit from a controlled family communication space.

The aim is simple: fewer menus, fewer unknown contacts and an easier way to stay close.