New Phone Setup for Seniors: A Friendly Checklist

1. Make text easier to read

Increase text size, screen brightness, and display settings so the phone is comfortable to use without strain.

2. Set up important contacts

Add family, doctors, caregivers, neighbors, and emergency contacts. Pin or favorite the most important people if the phone allows it.

3. Turn on safer login options

Set a passcode, fingerprint, or face unlock. Also review account recovery options so the owner does not get locked out later.

4. Organize the home screen

Keep the most-used apps visible: phone, messages, camera, photos, email, maps, video calling, and any medical or family apps.

5. Review scam and privacy basics

Talk through suspicious calls, text links, verification codes, fake support popups, and why nobody should pressure them to share codes or install unknown apps.

6. Set up medical and emergency features

Review Medical ID, emergency contacts, location sharing preferences, and urgent alert settings. These features should be configured with the owner’s comfort and privacy in mind.

7. Practice the everyday tasks before leaving

Make a real phone call, send a text, take a photo, check voicemail, open maps, and join a video call. A few practice runs can make the new phone feel familiar instead of intimidating.

Need help setting up a phone?

Friendly Setup helps San Diego seniors and families set up new phones, apps, contacts, photos, passwords, video calling, email, and safety settings.

Call or text 858-218-6001 or email info@friendlysetup.com.