The cellular service space is a competitive area due to the many different providers and phone types. Each company is constantly re-vamping their technology to meet market needs and claim market shares, which often takes the simplicity out of the discussion. Cell phones have come a long way since the first one appeared on the market.
Plans have advanced from pay-as-you-go platforms to unlimited status, which is a type of service plan that favors business users and disregards people who need minimal usage amounts. The cost required to open, and access service is ineffective in terms of cost for seniors, as they only require it for limited production amounts. Below is a look at some of the relevant options still in existence for this tier of individuals. The breakdown will detail some of the specifics of the phones and discuss the plans attached to each option.
The Jitterbug Flip
The Jitterbug Flip has been touted as one of the best options for senior citizens since its inception into the cell phone world. The keypad contains large, block numbers, creating ease of usage. The Jitterbug also places a panic button at the bottom of the keypad to gain instant access to first responders and emergency support in time of need. It is an affordable option and still prices around $75 in retail settings. This is a pay-as-you-go option, so the user would buy pre-paid cards, minutes, and text extensions to fund the production of the phone. The call quality remains clear, the display screen features good illumination, and the on-screen menu is easy to access and understand. The non-enrollment plan design also works well for those looking to keep on the proper budgeting leve
The BlackBerry KeyOne
If you are willing to expand on budgeting for your phone, nothing tops the reliability of a BlackBerry. This is a durable option that is scratch-resistant and shatterproof. Often billed as a business brand, BlackBerry works well for senior citizens because it is a consistent, long-term option. The initial price point seems minimal when you compare it to the test of time. This model has an extended battery life and a loud speaker phone option, increasing the clarity of your phone calls. It also has a full keyboard that details all the characters you would need to send a message. It is an Android phone, so it can be carried with pretty much any provider on the market.
The Jitterbug Smart
Jitterbug is a company that strives for practicality, so this advanced model features some additional bells and whistles. This is a touch-screen option that retails at $149.99. The same Jitterbug calling cards and minute loaders can be used to locate service, keeping this as a cost-effective option. This model comes pre-loaded with assistance applications that are geared toward senior citizens. These applications include talk-to-text translation, emergency service providers, urgent care options, and other such nuggets that create elements of assistance. The bold lettering and illumination cover a large portion of the screen, limiting the need to search endlessly for your destination. The on-screen menu is split between panes, so there are only a few applications loaded on each pane for clearer visibility. The one won’t strain the budget and hosts the ability for additional downloads.