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Thank you. I have experience getting a smart phone for a tech savvy 91 year old,. The problem there is precision of the touch screen. It is fine when you are there with him, no good on his own, so didn't solve anything. I think the solution will be different fir different people
moorhen-
The problem there is precision of the touch screen
Yes.
This is why I recommended Apple, they drag and drop less easily, clearer screens, more accessible.
Unfortunately if you go for a feature phone with number pad, you are in the world of "tap multiple times to get the letter
k, then tap multiple times to get the letter..." and so forth.The largest possible screen with onscreen keyboard is the best I can think of. Especially if the home screen can be reduced to "big green WhatsApp button".
Velocio
Also... if you had WiFi sorted (must be WiFi) then there's another way to go: https://store.google.com/product/google_nest_hub_max or https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07SMN7FYZ/
Again, lots of software support issues here... they may find it impossible to make calls and stay in touch, the UI is totally voice based and requires memorising the phrases... but between tablets and phones comes these little home display units.
For your budget and needs... PAYG smartphone with WhatsApp.