Many people use text messaging, also known as texting, as a quick and convenient way to stay in touch with family and friends, rather than making phone calls. However, some features can confuse older adults who are unaccustomed to them.
Therefore, we feel compelled to share a step-by-step guide that helps seniors start texting confidently on both Android and iPhone devices without requiring prior technical experience.
Types of text messaging
SMS (Short Message Service)
Short Message Service (SMS) is a cellular service that enables the transmission of plain text messages of up to 160 characters without requiring Wi-Fi or mobile data.
MMS (Multimedia Messaging Service)
Multimedia Messaging Service (MMS) allows you to send pictures, videos, voice notes, or longer messages, but requires mobile data or Wi-Fi to work correctly.
Chat Apps vs. Traditional Texting
Some phones display messages as “Chat,” similar to WhatsApp or iMessage, when connected to the internet.
- Chat features allow real-time typing, read receipts, and high-quality images.
- They require Wi-Fi or mobile data and can behave differently depending on your phone’s settings.
Suggested image: Comparison screenshot showing SMS vs. Chat.
Takeaway: Test messaging doesn’t require learning new apps or remembering usernames and passwords. You write and send messages instantly, which are automatically saved on your phone to check later at your convenience.
Our guide to resolving phone call volume and sound issues can also help older adults who have difficulty hearing the person on the other end of the line.
How to Open the Messaging App?
Here is how to find and open your phone’s messaging app:
On an Android:
Android phones typically feature a built-in messaging app (Messages) represented by a small blue or white speech bubble icon.
- Look for the Messages icon on your phone’s home screen and tap it to open the app.
- Or swipe up from the bottom of the screen to open a complete list of apps, then open the Message app drawer.
- Tap the icon once you find it to launch the messaging app.
Helpful Tip: Press and hold the Messages icon, then choose “Add to Home Screen” to easily find it next time.
Suggested Image: Android home screen with the Messages icon highlighted in a red circle.
On iPhone (iOS Devices):
Apple’s default texting app is also “Messages,” identified by a green icon with a white speech bubble; here is how to find it:
- Look for the green Messages icon on your iPhone’s home screen.
- Alternatively, swipe down on your home screen to open Spotlight Search if it’s invisible.
- Type “Messages” into the search bar and tap to open the app when it appears in the list.
Helpful Tip: Ask Siri to open the Messages by saying, “Open Messages” to launch the app for you.
Writing and Sending a Message
Use these steps, regardless of whether you’re using an Android phone or an iPhone.
- Tap the New Message button represented by a ➕ symbol or a pencil icon in the bottom right corner.
- Enter your recipient’s phone number or name in the “To:” field (saved contacts will appear as you type, allowing you to select the desired name).
- Write your message in the “Text message box”.
- Click the Send button, which resembles a paper airplane icon on the right side.
Your message will be sent instantly, provided you have a mobile or Wi-Fi connection.
Suggested Screenshot: Android message compose screen with “To” field, typed message, and Send button highlighted.
Note: Writing and sending a message are nearly identical on both Android and iPhone, except that:
- You send messages on iPhones as iMessages (blue bubbles) on Apple devices.
- Or as regular text messages (SMS) (green bubbles) on other phone devices.
Reading and Replying to Messages
This step-by-step guide helps you easily read and reply to messages on both Android and iPhone devices to stay connected with families, friends, and caregivers.
Step 1: Look for New Message Notifications
Here’s how your phone alerts you when you receive a new message:
- A red badge or small number on the Messages app icon (e.g., “1” for one new message).
- A sound or vibration.
- A banner notification at the top of the screen displays the sender’s name and a portion of the message.
Tip: Swipe down from the top of the screen (Android) or from the top-left corner (iPhone) to access your notification center if you’ve missed a notification.
Step 2: Open the Messages App
- Tap the Messages app icon on your Home screen or App list.
- Or swipe down and type “Messages” into the search bar if you can’t find it.
Step 3: Read the Message
- Tap the name or phone number of the person you want to read the message from when you see a list of conversations in the Messages app.
- The whole message will appear in a chat-like format, accompanied by a timestamp.
Step 4: Reply to the Message
- Tap the text box labeled “Text message” or “iMessage” at the bottom of the screen.
- Type your reply and click the Send icon (usually represented by an arrow or paper plane symbol), and send your message.
Note: The Blue at the bottom of the screen indicates the message sent via iMessage (Apple-to-Apple), while green symbolizes a regular text message (SMS). All messages on Android phones are sent as SMS or MMS, unless you are using a chat service.
Voice-to‑Text (Spoken Messages)
It can be challenging for seniors or people with limited dexterity to type on a small screen when sending messages. Fortunately, smartphones have a built-in voice-to-text feature that allows you to speak your message instead of typing it.
Voice-to-text is faster and easier than typing, especially for longer messages, and is particularly essential for individuals with arthritis, vision challenges, or those who are unfamiliar with small keyboards.
On Android
- Open the Messages app to start a new message or open an existing conversation.
- Tap the text box where you would typically type your message.
- On the on-screen keyboard, tap the microphone icon (usually found near the spacebar or on the top-right corner of the keyboard).
- Speak your message clearly into the phone.
- The system instantly converts your speech into text.
- Click on the Send icon (paper plane or arrow) to send your message.
Common Texting Symbols and Icons
Small icons or symbols typically appear next to your messages or on the keyboard when texting on a smartphone.
These symbols indicate the status of your messages or provide quick access to helpful features, such as photos and emojis. Below are the most common.
✅ Single Check Mark
- Meaning: Your message was sent successfully from your device.
- Platform: Common on Android phones (using Google Messages or similar apps).
✅✅ Double Check Marks
- Meaning: Your message was delivered to the recipient’s phone.
- Platform: Also typical in Android messaging apps.
Note: You won’t typically see these symbols in iPhone’s default Messages app as it uses blue and green bubbles instead.
📎 Paperclip Icon
- Meaning: Tap to attach files, such as documents, photos, and videos.
- Where you’ll see it: Inside the message composition area, usually near the text box.
- Great for: Sending photos of loved ones, receipts, or quick notes.
😊 Smiley Face or Emoji Icon
- Meaning: Opens the emoji menu to insert smiley faces, hearts, animals, and other expressive images.
- They make messages more fun and personal.
Helpful Accessibility Settings
Poor vision or small text can prevent you or a loved one from reading or interacting with text messages. Still, your smartphone offers built-in accessibility features to make messaging easier and more comfortable.
Some applicable settings to adjust on both Android and iPhone include:
Making Text Larger and Easier to Read
On Android:
- Go to Settings > Display > Font Size
- Use the slider to increase the text size across your phone, including in messages and menus.
On iPhone:
- Open Settings > Display & Brightness > Text Size
- Drag the slider to adjust the font size to your liking.
Tip: Larger text helps prevent misreading messages or missing important details.
Enable Text-to-Speech Features
Text-to-speech features read on-screen text out loud, making them worth it for users with poor vision or those who prefer to listen:
Android:
- Go to Settings > Accessibility > TalkBack
- Turn on TalkBack to have your phone speak out text, including message content.
iPhone:
- Go to Settings > Accessibility > Spoken Content > Speak Screen
- Use two fingers to swipe down from the top of the screen to hear your messages read aloud.
Simple Safety Tips
- Never open suspicious messages from unknown numbers.
- Don’t click on unfamiliar links.
- Block or delete unknown senders.
- Keep personal information (bank details, passwords) private.
Our Beginner’s Guide to Using Smartphones for Seniors is also available for use if you are unfamiliar with these new devices.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are answers to the questions seniors may have about messaging, or you can use them as a refresher:
Can I send photos in a text message?
Yes, you can send pictures to family or friends easily on your phone if you have mobile data or a Wi-Fi connection.
On Android and iPhone:
- Open your messaging app and tap the paperclip (📎) or camera icon.
- Choose a photo from your gallery or take a new one.
- Tap Send to share it.
Why didn’t my message go through?
The following reasons can prevent messages from being sent:
- Lack of a cellular signal or Wi-Fi connection.
- Wrong or incorrect recipient’s number.
- Phone in airplane mode, or the message with temporary issues.
Tip: Look for a red exclamation (!) or “Not Delivered” message, and try sending again once the signal becomes stable.
How do I delete a conversation thread?
Removing old messages helps clear space and keep your inbox tidy.
- On Android:
- Open Messages
- Tap and hold the conversation you want to delete
- Tap Delete
- On iPhone:
- Open Messages
- Swipe left on the conversation
- Tap Delete
Note: Deleting a conversation only removes it from your phone. It doesn’t affect the recipient’s messages on Android and iPhone operating systems.
Is there a difference between iMessage and SMS?
Both types of text messages differ in:
- iMessage:
- Only available on Apple devices (iPhone, iPad, Mac).
- Messages appear in blue bubbles.
- Uses Wi-Fi or mobile data (not your texting plan).
- Supports photos, videos, and read receipts.
- SMS (Short Message Service):
- Works on all phones, including those with Android and iPhone operating systems.
- Messages appear in green bubbles on iPhones.
- Sent through your cellular carrier as standard text messages.
Final Thoughts.
Text messaging is a straightforward, safe, and effective way for seniors to stay connected with family, friends, and caregivers without overwhelming or confusing them.
Helpful features like voice-to-text and accessibility settings help you understand how to open, send, and manage messages, allowing you to feel confident using your phone to communicate. Ask for help when you need it.