top of page
Search

5 Ways to Make Your iPhone Easier to Use (and Less Likely to Be Thrown Across the Room)

Because technology should work for you—not the other way around.


Let’s Face It: iPhones Can Be Tricky

The iPhone is a powerful little device—basically a pocket-sized computer that can take photos, call your cousin in Florida, remind you to take your pills, and order socks without you having to leave your recliner.


But let’s be honest: those tiny buttons, pop-up notifications, and sneaky menus can turn a quick phone call into an accidental FaceTime with someone you haven’t talked to since 1994.

Good news: Apple has packed your iPhone with features that can make things bigger, simpler, and easier to navigate—you just need to know where to look. Here are 5 ways to make your iPhone more senior-friendly (and way less frustrating). If you'd like to know more or help me set up your phone to make it easier to use, contact me for a consultation.


1. Make the Text Bigger (So You Can Stop Squinting)

The default text on the iPhone seems to be designed for squirrels. Luckily, you can make the text bigger and bolder in just a few taps.


How to do it: Go to Settings > Accessibility > Display & Text Size > Larger TextThen use the slider to make it as large as you’d like (and yes, you can go really big).

Bonus tip: Turn on “Bold Text” in the same menu. It makes everything easier on the eyes—especially after a long day.

2. Set Up “Display Zoom” to Make Buttons Bigger Too

If you find yourself tapping the wrong thing (or five things at once), you can zoom in the entire interface—icons, buttons, and all.


How to do it: Go to Settings > Display & Brightness > Display Zoom > View > ZoomedTap “Set” and your iPhone will restart with everything sized up.

It’s like putting on reading glasses, but for your phone.

3. Use Voice Control or Siri to Get Things Done

Why tap when you can just talk? Your iPhone comes with Siri, your very own voice assistant who (usually) listens when you say things like:

  • “Call Mary Smith”

  • “Remind me to water the plants at 4 PM”

  • “What’s the weather tomorrow?”

  • “Open Photos” (no more hunting for the app!)


How to turn Siri on: Go to Settings > Siri & Search and make sure “Listen for ‘Hey Siri’” is turned on.

Pro tip: If you talk to Siri like you would a slightly confused librarian, she usually gets it right.

4. Turn On “Magnifier” – Your Built-in Digital Magnifying Glass

Did you know your iPhone can act like a magnifying glass? Perfect for menus, pill bottles, and that tiny serial number on the back of the toaster oven.


How to turn it on: Go to Settings > Accessibility > Magnifier and switch it on.Now triple-click the side button to launch it whenever you need it.

It’s like carrying a magnifying glass in your pocket, minus the monocle.

5. Simplify the Home Screen with Fewer Apps and Bigger Buttons

You don’t need 87 apps staring at you every time you unlock your phone. Clean things up and only keep the ones you actually use on the main screen.


How to clean it up:

  • Press and hold any app icon until it jiggles.

  • Tap the little minus sign (“-”) to remove it from your Home Screen (don’t worry—it’s still in the App Library).

  • Drag your most-used apps—like Phone, Messages, or Photos—down to the bottom row so they’re always handy.

It’s like organizing your kitchen drawer: less clutter, more calm.

Final Thoughts: Take Control of Your iPhone (Not the Other Way Around)

Your iPhone is a powerful tool, but it doesn’t have to be complicated. A few simple settings can make a world of difference—bigger text, fewer distractions, easier access. It’s still your phone—you’re just making it work better for the way you live.


Now go forth and FaceTime the grandkids, order that gardening hat you’ve had your eye on, or just ask Siri to play some jazz. If you'd like me assist in making your phone more user-friendly, contact me for a consultation.

 
 
 

Comments

bottom of page