looking for a digital camera for seniors?

Most of the new point n shoots are pretty simple to use so long as you use the "Auto Everything" mode. I assume theyre just looking for a camera to capture moments and not get too involved with various settings and "creative" photography.

I would warn against most point n shoots for seniors based on their lack of an optical viewfinder. Most have only the LCD to view and frame the subject. Many people have a hard time getting well focused photos from them because its harder to keep the camera steady when you hold it at arms length viewing the LCD. Its easier to keep it stable with the camera up to your face looking through the viewfinder. I dont mean to be offensive but some seniors may not have very steady hands to begin with so having the viewfinder may be beneficial. For those who prefer the LCD its also on the camera. Image stabilization (IS) will also help unsteady hands. Of course they will also want a camera which produces good photos.

I would recommend the Canon A1100IS. Its inexpensive, still has an optical viewfinder, uses common SD/SDHC cards, image stabilization, is easy to use and produces great photos. It uses AA sized batteries. For performance combined with cost savings I would suggest AA sized NiMh batteries rated 2400mah and up. Duracell makes a readily available 2600mah battery which is what I use. The nice thing is in a pinch if the rechargeables are drained you can substitute AA size alkaline batteries available everywhere.

Second I would recommend the Canon SD1200IS. Very similar but doesnt have the convenience of AA sized batteries.

Any digital camera portable with 3X zoom and 8 MP will be OK for seniors for simple photography.

it depends what you are looking for. If you stick with Nikon, Canon, panasonic,or Fuji the quality should be adequate for your needs.