I know that everybody is different, but this post will cover some basic features and accessories that I think are especially helpful for those living with fibromyalgia. The very most important aspect of the phone, to me, is making sure that is fits in my hand well. There is no way am I going to spend over $100 on a phone that I might end up dropping and breaking because I can’t hold it well. On days that I don’t feel well I’ve noticed that I tend not to hold on as tightly to objects, thus increasing the chance I’ll drop things. One of the first accessories that I buy after purchasing a new phone is a cell phone case cover that has some type of rubber on it to help it stay in my hand easier. Just for fun, I also get a case color/pattern that makes me happy to look at. If you’re worried about scraping the screen, get a screen protector as well.

One of the next things I look for is the how to input text. I’ve had phones that have had the the QWERTY keyboard all scrunched up on the bottom of the front of the phone, with only on-screen keyboards and with both on-screen keyboards and a slide out QWERTY keyboard that is fairly large. I definitely prefer the last option. When my fingers are aching I like using the on-screen Swype version of a keyboard and when my fingers feel fine I prefer using the slide out keyboard.

Another feature I like is a calendar that syncs with a website or my computer. I need to have my schedule with me all the time (think of scheduling a follow-up appointment while at the doctor’s). Being able to set alarms is also good for setting reminders to take medicine and for getting up in the morning when traveling. Having a decent camera phone is good for when you have symptoms that you want to take a picture of and show your doctor at your next appointment. I also like having an easy way to turn bluetooth connections on/off. Leaving it on eats up the battery and I like to have it enabled when I’m in the car (you know, in case that doctor I’ve been waiting to hear from calls back). It is also nice for long calls at home, so you don’t have to hold your phone or crane your neck.

Of course, apps for Twitter and Facebook can be nice to have, especially if you’re curled up on a couch or a bed feeling sick and wanting to know if others have experienced what you are. I must have Google Maps to refer to when I’m heading into an area I’m unfamiliar with. If I didn’t have GPS in my car, I’d want to be sure my phone had GPS so it could read me directions too. Another app that I appreciate being able to use is Springpad. I can type in memos from my computer or phone and see them in both places. This is great for keeping a list of medical conditions and medications on hand at all times. You never know when someone might need to access that information for emergencies purposes.

What phones and features have you really liked having?

My HTC Evo Shift with the keyboard slid out