A ‘senior’ is quite a broad term. It’s not like in the past when most seniors were technologically uninformed. These days there are many vital seniors who are used to new-age technology and want to make the most of it. On the other hand, there are still many old-fashion seniors, who are looking for extreme simplicity.
That said, the best cell phones for seniors can come in quite a wide range. For those seniors looking to engage in video calls with their kids and grandkids, smartphones are the way to go, however, for those in search of maximum simplicity, flip phone or rugged basic phones are the best choice.
In this article, we will go deep and provide you with all the information you need to successfully select the best cell phones for seniors according to their condition and needs.
We will cover all the aspects that will give you general guidance in selecting the best cell phones for seniors. Moreover, we will also take a closer look at the best cell phones for seniors in for of smartphones and in form of flip phones.
By the end of the article, you will be a semi-expert on the best cell phones for seniors and will be able to make an informed decision.
So, are you ready to dig in? Let’s do this!
Best 12 Cell Phones for Seniors
This section will be extremely helpful for those of you who are not fans of doing your own research and would just like to pick a cell phone model and be done with it.
In the two subsections below, you will get to view details on 6 best smartphones and 6 best flip phones for seniors, which will enable you to greatly narrow your selection and simply pick one of the given options.
6 Best Smartphones For Seniors
Smartphones are suitable for seniors with at least some experience with modern technology or a strong will to learn about it. They enable the use of advanced apps that can be of great help and simple access to the internet, video calls, and much more.
Keep in mind that there are no smartphones that would be particularly built for seniors. However, there are some brands and models that focus more on the simplicity of use. Though, keep in mind that touchscreen phones by default offer a highly intuitive user experience.
Below are 6 smartphone models that we feel are the best choice for seniors.
Note: We have focused on entry-level smartphones or older model smartphones because this enables you to attain a smartphone at very affordable prices. However, if the price is not an issue and the senior is capable of making use of the latest and the best smartphones, Samsung and iPhone latest models may be the best place to look.
1. GreatCall Jitterbug Smartphone
The GreatCall Jitterbug Smartphone offers a sleek and modern design. It also comes with a large and highly responsive touchscreen. Actually, it is a very popular choice for seniors ready to use a smartphone.
Its menu is equipped with large icons and fonts and is set up very intuitively to make navigating it very simple.
The phone also packs several GreatCall’s exclusive features like, of which an emergency button may be the most important one.
Another great thing about GreatCall is that there are no contracts, which means that a senior retains maximum freedom. Moreover, this phone comes with award-winning customer service, which is quite important and handy for senior users.
In addition, there are quite many health services available through the device, which can be of great use when health issues occur.
GreatCall Jitterbug Smartphone is the only model that we may say is specially designed for seniors.
Main Features:
- Large, responsive touchscreen
- Exclusive GreatCall features – SOS button
- Intuitive menu with large icons and font
2. LG Tribute Dynasty
The LG Tribute Dynasty is a midrange-level smartphone, which means that a senior can attain all the features of a smartphone at an extremely affordable price.
The phone has a 5.0” high-definition display that supports 1280 x 720 resolution, which means that watching videos on this device will be enjoyable.
Furthermore, the phone packs an 8-megapixel camera with autofocus and a LED flash, which enables users to capture pretty decent photos that will also look good on larger displays (including laptops, PCs, and TVs).
The LG Tribute Dynasty battery is 2,500 mAh, which is nothing special, yet enough to easily get you through an entire day.
The phone’s 1.5GHz octa-core processor is relatively quick and capable of entry-level multitasking as well.
Main Features:
- Removable 2,500 mAh battery
- 1.5GHz octa-core processor
- Decent 8-megapixel autofocus camera
3. ZTE Tempo X
The ZTE Tempo X is a go-to smartphone for seniors looking for an extremely affordable touchscreen option. The phone operates on Android 7.1.1 and is a very basic entry-level smartphone.
It comes with a high-quality 5” touchscreen display. It also packs a decent 5MP camera that will enable seniors to snap some memorable photos. The phone is powered by a 2,200 mAh battery, which will get an average user through the day easily.
Main Features:
- High-quality 5” touchscreen
- Android functionality
- 5MP camera
4. iPhone XR
If you want a high-quality smartphone for a senior, iPhones are a great place to turn to. iPhone XR is no longer not the latest nor the best that Apple has to offer, however, still a very powerful choice. The fact that it is an older model only makes it way more affordable, despite the fact that iPhones and affordability may not go well together in general.
iPhones are popular for a reason. They are reliable, safe, and durable. Moreover, many people use them, which means that a charger will be at hand even over when at a friend’s house.
The iPhone XR model packs a 6.1-inch touchscreen display and uses the updated version of the operating system, which means that all operations should run smoothly. The phone also has a powerful 12 MP rear-facing camera, which captures great photos.
Due to the fact, the iPhone XR comes in a variety of color options, is certainly one of the least dull smartphones around. Moreover, if you decide to make your phone a bright red or vibrant yellow, it will be easier to find when it slips out of your pocket or gets misplaced.
Main Features:
- Large display – High-quality 6.1” touchscreen
- iPhone quality and support
- 12 MP camera
5. Samsung Galaxy S10e
When it comes to Android smartphones, Samsung is the leading brand, at least according to most experts. It delivers phones with a user-friendly menu interface, which makes Samsung models great for seniors as well.
The S10e is the most affordable option among the Galaxy series, which is why we decided to include it as one of the best picks for seniors. Aside from its affordability, it still comes with many great features.
The Samsung Galaxy S10e comes with a big 5.8-inch display, which makes watching photos or videos super easy. At the same time, it is not too big and can still fit in an average size pocket and in one hand.
This phone also packs a fingerprint sensor on the side of the phone for extra security. This feature may be new to seniors, yet it is easy to get used to and it sure makes screen unlocking a breeze.
The phone also comes with a 3.5mm headphone jack, which enables to use wired headphones with ease.
The phone’s battery is also above average and should easily last the user throughout the day.
Main Features:
- 5.8-inch display
- Fast processor
- Reliable performance and solid battery life
6. Motorola Moto e⁴ Plus
Considering the fact that Motorola designed the Moto e⁴ Plus to be simple yet powerful, it may be that they had an advanced senior user in mind. As such, it is a great choice for adults and seniors looking for a smartphone for basic use and some additional photo taking.
The most impressive feature of this phone is its battery. It packs one of the biggest batteries around. It can easily last for up to two days, which is very rare for smartphones.
The phone’s big HD touchscreen display measures 5.5 inches and makes it easy to see various content.
Moreover, the Moto e4 Plus also packs a fingerprint sensor, which enables fast and easy screen to unlock. In addition, this Android phone comes with a 13 MP autofocus camera, which snaps quite impressive photos. To impress you further, there is also a front-facing 5 MP camera that you can use for taking selfies or video chatting with friends and family.
Main Features:
- 5.5-inch display
- Impressive camera
- Great battery
- Affordable price
6 Best Flip Phones For Seniors
Flip phones are extremely compact and simple to use – simply open the two half of the phone to answer a call and close them together to finish the cal. As such, the flip phone remains the go-to cell phone type for the majority of seniors.
Below are 6 flip phone models that we feel are the best choice for seniors.
1. Alcatel Big Easy Flip
Alcatel Big Easy Flip is a perfect no-fuss option for those looking for simple calling functionality. It also packs a large display on the front case to view time, battery status, and notifications without the need to open the phone. This phone supports MP3 songs and may as such be used as an MP3 player. The Alcatel Big Easy Flip is also Bluetooth capable, which means you can connect it with wireless headphones or a Bluetooth speaker to play music or make hands-free calls.
This flip phone also comes with a powerful battery, which can last up to 11 days.
Main Features:
- Front display with large-font time display
- Impressive standby battery life of up to 11 days
- Supports MP3 music
2. Easyfone Prime A1
The Easyfone Prime A1 is another flip phone. Due to its compact built and simplicity it is great for seniors. The phone packs large buttons for fast and precise dialing. It also offers a very high volume for those with hearing issues, which is quite common among seniors.
The Easyfone Prime A1 is also hearing aid compatible, which is definitely a feature that senior-friendly phones should have. Its display is not impressively large, however at 2.4” it is ok for a flip phone. It also has a front display, which enables to view the time, battery and signal status, and any notifications. Though, the glasses may be required to see the slightly smaller font on the front screen.
Main Features:
- Flip design for maximum simplicity and compactness
- Screen with big fonts
- Hearing aid compatible
3. Jethro Flip Phone
The Jethro Flip Phone is another mention-worthy flip phone and as such a great option for seniors. This phone comes with a free quick charging dock, which is something many seniors like as it is something they are familiar with thanks to the landline wireless phones use.
The Jethro Flip Phone is sturdy and built to be able to withstand drops and other impacts, which makes it durable and rugged. Aside from its compactness, it is also very simple to use. It packs a relatively large display (at least for a flip phone) – a 2.4” LCD screen that offers excellent visibility.
Moreover, the phone also incorporates Bluetooth compatibility, which enables users to connect it with other Bluetooth devices, such as stereos, headsets, and car radios. The phone also comes with an enhanced rear camera, which will help you capture memories and keep them in your pocket.
Main Features:
- Sturdy and compact design – built to last
- Advanced rear camera (for flip phones)
- Hearing aid compatibility
4. Jitterbug Flip Easy-to-Use Cell Phone
Jitterbug Flip Easy-to-Use Cell Phone is one of the best cell phones for seniors. Jitterbug especially focuses on their senior client, which is reflected in their devices.
The phone is equipped with extra-large buttons to make dialing and menu navigating as simple as possible. The phone also offers crystal-clear text, which makes it easy to read every line and digit.
The menu itself also reflects the simplicity as it is designed with ease of navigation in mind. The simple ‘YES’ or ‘NO’ responses will get every senior to the point they are trying to get. Jitterbug phones are only available directly with GreatCall, which may be a slight downside. However, Jitterbug plans and services may be a good option for you if available in your area. They don’t use complicated, long-term contracts either, which is definitely a plus side for most users.
Main Features:
- Extra-large buttons
- No cancellation fees
- No contracts
- High speaker quality
- Clear display
- Dedicated SOS button
5. LG B470 Flip Phone
The LG B470 Flip Phone is another great option delivered by this worldwide brand, which has been making quality phones for years.
LG B470 works with various carriers. At 2.2”, its main display is slightly smaller compared to some of the above-presented models. To easily view time and other notifications, the phone comes with an additional 0.98” external display, which is pretty neat.
Probably the best option that this flip phone has to offer to seniors, is its special “senior mode”. The latter enhances high frequencies, which ensures that you’ll never miss a phone call or notification again. Pretty cool, right?
Main Features:
- Enhanced audio – via special senior mode
- Internal & external display – 2” main display and 0.98” external display
- Equipped with Bluetooth functionality
6. Samsung Convoy 3
If you are looking for a flip phone for an extra active senior or perhaps an extra careless or clumsy seniors, the Samsung Convoy 3 may be the way to go. This flip phone is built with military specs and is suitable for all extreme environments, including water spills, dust, mud, etc.
The phone will also easily survive even high drops, accidental sit-ons, and other potentially damage-inflicting actions.
The phone comes packs dual microphones with noise cancellation technology. That way the background noise is kept out, which makes outdoor calls much better. The Samsung Convoy 3 also packs the push-to-talk button, which is of great help for quick dialing.
Main Features:
- Tough – Rugged, military specs
- Built-in noise cancellation technology
- Hands-free technology incorporated
3 Best Phone Providers For Seniors
As if selecting a device is not enough, you also need to find a service provider. These two facts together may limit you on some occasions, especially if a senior living in an area with limited providers. Since the phone alone (without a provider) is not worth much, it makes sense to start with checking out the providers available in your area. Check their plans and if you find anything you like, move on to their phone offers. Often times there may be special deals set in place when you are switching over to their services.
Moreover, in case they do not have a senior-friendly phone that you like, check if they have a Bring Your Phone option, which means that you can buy an unlocked phone elsewhere and use it with their services (their SIM card). Most carriers these days have this option.
That said, let’s take a closer look at the 6 best contract & prepaid cell phones providers for seniors.
Pure TalkUSA
Best for: great customer support
Pure TalkUSA is one of the best carriers for seniors. With Pure Talk, there are no contracts, no long-distance fees, no roaming fees, no additional handset fees, and no prepaid cards. You and your family just use your phones and at the end of the month, we bill the credit card or debit card we have on file for the plan you chose.
Moreover, they proudly support their active-duty military and veterans by partnering with numerous military organizations.
Their voice and data service cover over 320 million Americans. Their 4G LTE network, which provides you fast internet speeds just like more expensive carriers, covers 305 million Americans. They operate on the largest GSM network in the United States to ensure you receive reliable coverage virtually anytime, anywhere.
All plans include Unlimited Talk & Text with high-speed data access with speeds up to 4G LTE. All plans also include voicemail, caller ID, call forwarding, conferencing, and call waiting.
The PureTalkUSA Customer Service department is kept in-house and is based right in the USA. If you need assistance, they are standing by ready to help. Just call them at 1-877-820-7873 or email them via the contact form available on their official website.
Here are Pure TalkUSA’s plans:
- $20/month plan: 2GB of data, unlimited talk, unlimited text
- $25/month plan: 4GB of data, unlimited talk, unlimited text
- $30/month plan: 6GB of data, unlimited talk, unlimited text
- $35/month plan: 10GB of data, unlimited talk, unlimited text
- $45/month plan: 20GB of data, unlimited talk, unlimited text; this plan unlocks instant phone discounts
- $55/month plan: unlimited data, unlimited talk, unlimited text; this plan unlocks instant phone discounts
TracFone Wireless
Best for: great availability and selection of phones in physical stores
TracFone Wireless is another great contract-free option. With TracFone Wireless you don’t get to be locked into a contract; actually, there are no contracts when you deal with TracFone. That also means that there are no activation or cancellation fees either.
TracFone prides itself on offering unbeatable nationwide coverage. That is possible based on the fact that they run on the largest and most dependable networks in America – the same networks the biggest carriers use.
TracFone also offers unlimited carryover, which means that you get to spend your unspent minutes (airtime) in the future, which is extremely fair.
All TracFone plans are convenient and there are no bills, overcharges, or mysterious fees.
In addition, they have a very good Bring Your Own Phone option, which enables you to use a wide range of unlocked TracFone phones with their services.
Aside from their online store, TracFone also keeps a great selection of phones in their local stores, which can be of great advantage for seniors, who are not used to shopping online.
Here are TracFone’s plans:
Smartphone plans:
- $125: 365 days of service: 1500 texts, 1500 minutes, 1.5GB of mobile data
- $50: 90 days of service: 1500 texts, 750 minutes, 2GB of mobile data
- $45: 90 days of service: 1000 texts, 750 minutes, 1.5GB of mobile data
- $35 ($33.25 with Auto-Refill): 60 days of service; 1000 texts, 750 minutes, 1GB of mobile data
- $30 ($25 with Auto-Refill): 30 days of service; unlimited texts, unlimited minutes, 3GB of mobile data
- $25 ($20 with Auto-Refill): 30 days of service; unlimited texts, unlimited minutes, 2GB of mobile data
- $20 ($15 with Auto-Refill): 30 days of service; unlimited texts, unlimited minutes, 1GB of mobile data
- $25 ($23.75 with Auto-Refill): 60 days of service; 1000 texts, 500 minutes, 500MB of mobile data
- $15 ($14.25 with Auto-Refill): 30 days of service; 500 texts, 500 minutes, 500MB of mobile data
Basic Plans: (minutes divided among talk, text, and web)
- $9.99 ($8.99 with Auto-Refill): 30 days of service: 30 minutes (airtime) for talk, text, and web
- $19.99 ($17.99 with Auto-Refill): 90 days of service: 60 minutes (airtime) for talk, text, and web
- $29.99 ($26.99 with Auto-Refill): 90 days of service: 120 minutes (airtime) for talk, text, and web
- $39.99 ($35.99 with Auto-Refill): 90 days of service: 200 minutes (airtime) for talk, text, and web
- $79.99 ($71.99 with Auto-Refill): 90 days of service: 450 minutes (airtime) for talk, text, and web
- $99.99: 365 days of service: 400 minutes (airtime) for talk, text, and web
- $159.99: 365 days of service: 1000 minutes (airtime) for talk, text, and web
- $199.99: 365 days of service: 1500 minutes (airtime) for talk, text, and web
GreatCall
Best for: Special focus on senior-friendly devices
If you are not on a tight budget and are looking for the most senior-friendly carrier, GreatCall may be the place to turn. They are fully devoted to serving seniors, as such, all their plans must include one of their phones. This can be a senior-friendly smartphone or a senior-friendly flip phone.
Once the device has been selected, you further get to choose among their plans (details below). Since they are focused on serving seniors, they also offer so-called ‘Lively Healthy & Safe’ plans that come with different levels of benefits and also offer discounts on airtime. The most expensive ‘Lively Healthy & Safty’ Package runs at $34.99 and includes an urgent response, rain games, urgent care, GreatCall link, and Personal operator.
Here are GreatCall’s plans (prices if Basic Health & Safety Package are included):
Monthly Minutes:
- 100 Minutes: $5.00
- 750 Minutes: $10.00
- 1500 Minutes: $15.00
- Unlimited Talk & Text: $20.00
- Unlimited Talk, Text & Data: $40.00 (only for a smartphone)
Monthly Texts:
- 500 Texts: $3.00
- 1000 Texts: $5.00
- 2500 Texts: $10.00
- Unlimited Texts: $15.00
Monthly Data: (only for a smartphone)
- 100 MB: $2.49
- 250 MB: $5.00
- 1 GB: $10.00
- 2.5 GB: $15.00
Here are GreatCall’s plans (prices if Basic Health & Safety Package are ARE NOT included):
Monthly Minutes:
- 250 Minutes: $14.99
- 1000 Minutes: $19.99
- 2500 Minutes: $29.99
- Unlimited Talk & Text: $39.99
- Unlimited Talk, Text & Data: $59.99
Monthly Texts:
- 500 Texts: $3.00
- 1000 Texts: $5.00
- 2500 Texts: $10.00
- Unlimited Texts: $15.00
Monthly Data:
- 100 MB: $2.49
- 250 MB: $5.00
- 1 GB: $10.00
- 2.5 GB: $15.00
6 Things To Keep In Mind When Choosing A Phone For Seniors
We decided to start off with some basic guidelines that you should consider whether you are a senior buying a cell phone for yourself or a family member/caregiver buying a cell phone for a senior.
In one of the following sections, we will go deeper regarding the best cell phones for seniors buyer’s guide. But for now, the following will set a proper base-knowledge.
Customer Service Considerations for Seniors
This aspect is especially important if a senior is new to using a cell phone. In that case, you need to make sure that the customer support is super kind, prompt, patient, and prepared to take time to explain the basics to seniors.
As with every new thing, using a cell phone (especial in the case of smartphones), it takes some time to get used to it. In that period, a senior may make mistakes, get into the menu options he or she didn’t intend to, and so on. It is important that customer support is easy to reach and prepared to assist on such occasions.
Safety Features
Basically, all phones come with decent safety features these days. Those start with complete basics, such as automatic screen lock, which prevents accidental dialing and thus the unwanted cost to be inflicted. Safety features can also refer to antivirus apps that protect phones that have internet access. Most leading brands make sure that cell phone software already incorporates decent safety levels.
Additionally, a carrier may offer you more advanced safety features, such as number blocking (for incoming and outgoing calls), which can be of great use in case a senior’s dealing with memory problems to prevent high phone bills.
Another great safety (not device safety but user safety) feature to have in a phone for older seniors is the SOS button. This button is preprogrammed to call a preset number (it can be a loved one or an ambulance) with a single push. It can be a real life-saver.
Look for Senior-Relevant Special Features
SOS button (mentioned above) is without a doubt one of the best senior-relevant special features. When we consider smartphones, there are specific health-tracking apps that can be of great use.
Consider Contracts or Prepaid
When it comes to phone plans, there are two options – contract plans (postpaid) and prepaid plans. Each of the two options comes with its advantages and disadvantages. Prepaid plans come with a higher level of freedom and the ability to change plans and even carriers freely. However, contract-based plans come with priority treatments, better phone deals, and other benefits.
Prepaid plans are a more affordable option for an average senior, which is the main reason why many seniors take that route.
Does your loved senior want or need Internet access?
This is quite an important question to answer. If a senior wants internet access, then it is best to go with a smartphone. Of course, there are flip phones that operate on a 4G network or have Wi-Fi function, which both enables to connect to the high-speed internet, however, browsing experience in a flip phone is extremely limited.
Keep in mind that one of the above-mentioned internet access methods is required for video calls, which is a good thing to have, especially after the 2020 pandemic and related social connection restrictions.
Though, the advanced features that come with internet access may be too much for many seniors and those probably not required.
Comparing Cell Phone Companies For Seniors
It is always important to consider several options. Start by determining which carriers are available in your area. Then call their support, visit their website, or their local stores, and ask what makes them a good pick for seniors.
Generally speaking, there are currently no providers that offer special deals for seniors, however, with the above approach, you may get some special offers.
You may also ask for a trial period where you or your parents can try out the phone. This can be of extreme help as it determined whether or not the device is a good pick. These sorts of test runs are a great way to find the best cell phones for seniors.
What To Look Before Buying Cell Phone Seniors
This is a detailed senior phone buy’s guide that will enable anyone to buy the best cell phones for seniors.
Hearing Aid Compatible (HAC)
A senior is considered to be 65 years old or more. At that age, it is completely common that hearing capabilities start to decrease. As such, the phone’s hearing aid compatibility is of great importance. Make sure that a phone has T3 or T4 and M3 or M4.
Speakers/Loud Ringer Volume
Due to the same reason as described in the above point, it is important that a phone enables very loud ringing tones and packs high-quality speakers. That way a senior will be able to hear the ringing and not miss any important calls, and also hear the person on the other side of the line properly.
Large Screen & On-Screen Keyboard
When it comes to the size of the screen, most smartphones have an advantage over flip phones. Though keep in mind that in some cases you will need to install an app that will enable extra-large menu font.
If going for smartphones, we recommend not to go with phones smaller than 5”. When flip phones are in question, a display should not be less than 2.2”.
Most seniors report way better experience with physical keyboards, which is where flip phones beat smartphones. However, most seniors are able to get used to touchscreens in a couple of weeks.
Durability
An average senior is not used to paying too much attention to a cell phone, which can result in occasional drops, spills, sit-ons, and other accidents, which can be hard on an average device. As such, it pays to look into more rugged models. Those phones are also very durable.
Battery Life
Smartphones have larger batteries than flip phones, however, they also have a much, much larger energy consumption, which results in the fact that flip phone’s battery life last longer.
However, most seniors don’t mind charging their phones every night. And you should have no problem finding a phone that has an all-day battery.
Weight, Price, and Quality
Weight is another factor to consider, however, it is not of great importance to most users. Only those who plan to wear their phone in their cloths pockets will prefer more lightweight models.
Reputable brands deliver good quality, which normally also comes with a slightly higher price tag. Not always, but generally price and quality go hand in hand.
How To Teach Your Senior Family Member To Use A Cell Phone
If you are dealing with a senior that never used a cell phone before, you will need to teach them. Here it is extremely important to be very patient and encouraging. Their first experience will either be positive, which will result in faster learning, or negative, which will be built resentment and result in a slow learning curve. It is up to you to create a positive atmosphere.
Here are the most important aspects to consider when teaching a senior how to use a cell phone:
- Make sure to select an appropriate device – we highly recommend basic or flip phones for beginners. It is highly likely that they had at least some experience with landline phones, which will help. Smartphones, especially touchscreen features can be too confusing.
- Make sure to start with the simplest tasks – answering calls is the best place to start. With flip phones, it is as simple as opening the phone. Next, go with outgoing calls. Make sure to use the simplest method. If possible use shortcuts. Move on to texting and other options only once the calling is mastered.
- Make sure to let them try things in front of you – once you show them how to perform a specific task, make sure to give them the phone and let them do it. Repeat a couple of times to ensure that there are confidently doing it.
- Be patient and give them praise as often as possible – unless a senior is a fan of tough love, a gentle approach is a way to go. It has also turned out that grandkids may be great teachers for this particular task. Grandparents love their grandkids very much and it is this love that motivates them to impress their grandkids by mastering the skill fast.
iPhone vs Android vs Jitterbug: Which Make the Best Smartphones for Seniors?
Let us tell you in advance that there is no simple answer to this question. It all depends on the seniors’ needs, level of tech skills, expectations, and so on.
If the senior is tech-savvy and eager to use all the advanced features that smartphones have to offer, then iPhone or Android would be the way to go. Among the two, we advise you to go with the option that you use yourself. If you are an iPhone user, go with an iPhone, if you are an Android fan, go with Android. That way you will be familiar with the Operating System and menu options, which will enable you to help seniors get familiar with it as well.
The Main plus side of iPhones and Androids is that there are basically limitless options. You can choose countless devices and countless carriers.
The main downside is that in order to get special senior features, you will need to use special apps. Though, if you have no issue with apps, then you will have countless options.
However, if a senior wants to use a smartphone (touchscreen capabilities) and at the same time exploit special senior features, then the Jitterbug smartphone is the best option. Jitterbug phone is specially designed for seniors and even comes with an SOS button, which can be a real life-saver. That said, Jitterbug is definitely a more senior-specific choice.
Though, keep in mind that the Jitterbug phone limits you to GreatCall services, at least if you want the full benefits of the Jitterbug phone.
FAQs
Where is a good place to buy a cell phone for seniors?
If you are interested in flip phones, Amazon, eBay, and various contract-free prepaid carriers are a great place to go.
Does your phone need lots of Apps for seniors?
This depends on a senior’s needs. Of course, there are countless apps that may be used, however, if a senior is capable of using a smartphone as it is, there may be no need for any apps.
What kind of health monitoring phones offer for seniors?
Android phones or iPhones in combination with smartwatches or fitness trackers will provide the most health monitoring options. Phones alone will hardly be able to do the tracking, though you can use phone cameras to measure heart pulse with proper apps (the precision of that is questionable).
What happens if run out of minutes?
You simply top up your account and continue using your prepaid account. If an account is out of minutes for a longer period, a phone number may be deactivated (varies according to a carrier’s policy).
Can I keep my phone number?
Most carriers these days let you port in your number. This means that you can keep your existing number, yes.
Can I buy a new plan before my contract runs out?
Yes, you can always upgrade your plan with an existing carrier or move to another carrier, however, if you are under a contract, this may result in a fine/fee. In some cases carrier that you are switching over to may offer to cover that fee.
Do I have to pay for long-distance or international calls?
Unless your plan includes long-distance calls or international calls, you need to pay for these kinds of calls extra.
Do I need to buy a phone or will the company give one for seniors?
Generally speaking, you will not get a phone for free. However, there are oftentimes special deals offered where a free phone may be obtained if certain conditions are met. Though, those deals usually require signing up for the most expensive plans.
The only way to get truly free phones for seniors via Lifeline Assistance.
