Best Cell Phones & Plans for Seniors

Author

Five Star- FL

For more information about the author, click to view their website: Five Star Senior Living

Posted on

Aug 26, 2023

Book/Edition

Florida - Southwest

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Cellphones are a ubiquitous part of life; we’re either on our phones or they’re right by our side. It would be difficult to find someone without a cellphone, as 97 percent of Americans now own one of some kind, according to the Pew Research Center.

With so many cellphones and so many cell phone service plans, the abundance of options can feel daunting. But don’t worry, we’re here to help you navigate the maze of choices and find the best cell phone for seniors and the best cell phone plans.

Here are a few things to keep in mind when choosing a cell phone service plan:

  • How much data do you need?
  • How much talk and text do you need?
  • Do you need international calling?
  • Do you need a lot of features, like unlimited streaming or mobile hotspot?
  • What’s your budget?

Once you’ve considered these factors, you can start shopping around for plans. There are a few different ways to do this:

  • You can compare plans online.
  • You can go to a carrier store and talk to a representative.
  • You can use a service like Wirefly to compare plans from multiple carriers.

Remember to always read the fine print before you sign up for a plan. Make sure you understand all the terms and conditions, including the cancellation policy.

Best Cell Phones for Seniors

Apple iPhone – $899*

With its latest model the 14 Plus, Apple’s iPhone continues to be one of the best smartphones on the market for older adults. The iPhone offers a wide range of customizable accessibility features like large screens, large text, excellent call quality, and safety features like crash detection, SOS, and health monitoring apps. Plus the phone has an excellent camera. This phone is on the pricier side and is geared towards seniors who are more comfortable with technology, but is the most comprehensive when it comes to features.

Samsung Galaxy S23+ – $999*

For older adults more comfortable with Android phones, the Samsung Galaxy S23+ is a great pick. Great call quality, a large screen, and customizable accessibility options make this phone one of the best.The Galaxy’s large size might not work for those with smaller hands or reduced grip, but is great for those who like preinstalled safety features.

Jitterbug – $108* for smartphone

For those looking for a more simplified and cost-friendly phone, look no further than the Jitterbug Smart3. It features a large screen, a simplified user interface, urgent response button, long-lasting battery, and a great camera.

RAZ Mobility Memory Phone – $310*

Designed specifically for older adults with memory issues or a form of dementia like Alzheimer’s, the RAZ Mobility Memory Phone lets older adults with memory loss stay in touch with family.

Key features include preventing unnecessary emergency services calls and incoming fraud calls. Phone calls are made by the owner pressing and holding a large photo of a family member or friend they want to call. The phone features a camera, video calling, and one screen with the six most important contacts. Caregivers also control the phone remotely and can monitor it with GPS tracking.

What is the Best Flip Phone for Seniors?

Jitterbug Flip2 $89*

The Jitterbug flip2 is designed for simplicity and ease of use. It features a large, easy-to-read screen, large buttons that are easy to press, and an urgent response button that can be quickly accessed in case of an emergency. The flip2 is perfect for people who want a phone that is simple to use and has all the features they need.

Is Jitterbug the Best Phone for Seniors?

Both the Jitterbug smartphone and flip phone are great options for seniors. Their straightforward design makes them ideal for seniors that don’t want the extra capabilities of the iPhone or the Samsung Galaxy. If you just want to make phone calls and send texts this is the phone for you.

Best Cell Phone Plans for Seniors

Choosing the best cell phone plan for seniors can feel just as overwhelming as choosing the right phone. Here are the major cell phone providers:

  • AT&T Unlimited Basic
  • T-Mobile Essentials
  • Verizon Prepaid Start
  • Boost Mobile Unlimited
  • Cricket Wireless Unlimited More

These plans offer a variety of features that are important to seniors, such as unlimited talk, text, and data, as well as discounts on phones and plans for seniors. They also have simple plans that are easy to understand and use.

Here are some of the features that you should look for in a cell phone plan for seniors:

  • Unlimited talk, text, and data: This is a must-have for seniors who want to stay connected with friends and family.
  • Coverage: Make sure whichever plan you pick offers good coverage in your area.
  • Simple plans: Seniors should look for plans that are easy to understand and use.
  • Discounts on phones: Many cell phone carriers offer discounts on phones for seniors.
  • Emergency features: Some cell phone plans offer features that can help seniors in an emergency, such as fall detection and 24/7 customer support.
  • Customer support: Seniors should look for a cell phone carrier with good customer support in case they have any questions or problems.

*Pricing at the time of post. 

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