Senior Discount Network Cell Phone And Wireless Plan Deals
Senior Cell Phone Plan Deals and Discounts
A growing number of older Americans are embracing new technology, with 51 percent reporting the purchase of a tech product in the last year. Among these individuals, 23 percent acquired a smartphone, and 10 percent opted for a tablet. Notably, the divide in smartphone ownership between younger and older adults is shrinking, as the percentage of older adults owning smartphones has risen from 70 percent to 77 percent over the past year.
Benefits of Cell Phones for Seniors
Though technology is advancing among older adults, some remain hesitant to switch from landlines to cell phones. Yet, seniors stand to gain the most from adopting cell phones. Even an old flip phone can be a lifesaver in an emergency. Modern smartphones go a step further by offering health-monitoring features like tracking pulse, weight, and steps. Studies indicate that older adults who maintain easy communication with others tend to be healthier and better adjusted. Another often overlooked advantage of cell phones for seniors is the entertainment factor. With a smartphone, they can enjoy games, watch videos, or catch up on their favorite television shows.
Which Cell Phone Plan is Ideal for Seniors?
When selecting a cell phone plan for an older adult, a variety of options are available. T-Mobile stands out for its flexibility and perks, while Lively provides plans that include medical alert services, making it a strong contender. For those who prefer prepaid plans without long-term commitments, MintMobile is an excellent choice. Jitterbug also offers a straightforward, no-contract plan with an easy-to-use smartphone. It’s essential to consider the coverage area when choosing a plan for a senior, as smaller companies may have limited coverage, reducing the phone’s effectiveness. Major providers like T-Mobile, Verizon, and AT&T offer plans specifically tailored for seniors, typically boasting the best coverage.
Which Cell Phone is Most User-Friendly for Seniors?
Here are the top five cell phones that are easiest for seniors to use:
Jitterbug Flip – This flip phone stands out with its impressively large buttons and a straightforward menu design that features easy-to-read, large text. The speakers are notably loud, and it comes equipped with both a magnifier and a flashlight. While it does have a camera, it does not support video recording capabilities.
Grandpad – Boasting an 8-inch touchscreen, this device is specifically tailored for seniors who primarily stay at home and are comfortable using a larger gadget. Its user-friendly interface and front-facing speakers enhance audibility. Additionally, only callers in the contact list can get through, minimizing the risk of scammers targeting an elderly user.
Samsung Galaxy A12 – This phone is known for its extended battery life, a crucial feature for seniors who might forget to charge their phone regularly. It includes a camera with video recording abilities and a fingerprint sensor, simplifying the unlocking process without the need for a password.
iPhone SE – For older adults interested in a smartphone experience, the iPhone SE is an excellent choice. It features a large Retina HD touch screen, enabling FaceTime with children, grandchildren, and friends. Moreover, it is compatible with hearing aids and fits comfortably in your hand.
Kyocera DuraXE Epic – If durability is your primary concern, this phone is the top choice, particularly if your hands are unsteady or you are prone to falling. This flip phone has larger buttons for ease of use and is waterproof, so it can endure being dropped in water longer than other flip phones.
In summary, these five phones cater to various needs and preferences of seniors, from simple designs and enhanced durability to smartphone features and user-friendly interfaces.
Which Cell Phone Providers Have Discounts for Seniors?
If you’re an AARP member, various cell phone companies provide discounts, including Cricket, Lively, TracFone, Sprint, T-Mobile, Verizon, Consumer Cellular, and AT&T. Members of the Association of Mature American Citizens can enjoy up to 50% off PureTalk monthly plans and receive a complimentary iPhone SE. Consumer Cellular grants a 5% discount to individuals over 50, while veterans can avail themselves of a 25% discount on monthly plans at AT&T and 25% off mobile accessories at Verizon. Additionally, older adults with low incomes might qualify for a free cell phone through the LifeLine program, provided their income is below 135% of the federal poverty level and they participate in federal assistance programs such as SNAP, Medicaid, or SSI. T-Mobile also offers an unlimited 55+ plan, starting at $27.50 per line for two lines each month.
What Strategies Can Seniors Use to Reduce Cell Phone and Plan Costs?
One significant factor contributing to high cell phone bills is data usage. Activities like streaming videos, using GPS for navigation, or browsing the internet can quickly consume your data allowance. Most cell phone plans include a certain amount of data at no extra charge, but some carriers offer the option of unlimited data. While unlimited plans may appear costly upfront, they can actually be more economical if you frequently exceed your data limit.
To reduce expenses, consider joining a family plan. You might be able to join a child or grandchild’s plan at little to no additional monthly cost. It’s also wise to compare different carriers to find potential savings by switching providers. For those who use their phones infrequently, a prepaid plan might be more cost-effective, allowing you to purchase minutes only as needed.
A particularly effective strategy for seniors to save on cell phone costs is to register with SeniorDiscountNetwork.com. The registration process is free and straightforward, enabling immediate savings not only on phone plans but also on travel, vehicles, hearing aids, and more. Sign up today by completing the simple online form to start enjoying these benefits.