Many senior citizens decide to buy a cell phone. A few may not cherish the idea at first, but after they make a few calls and take some incoming calls — they look upon their cell phone as a new-found friend. Silver-haired customers discover a sea of instruments available with varying amounts of seemingly useless features. Prices for cell phones range from modest to “you gotta be crazy!” The phone manufacturers tout their wares with catchy phrases and often what you see is what you might not want. A number of cell phones have exactly what a senior citizen hopes to find in a reliable piece of equipment.
Keep it Simple
Visit a cell phone store and tell the phone tech that you want a basic phone. Phones referred to as “smart phones” have GPS devices, maps, video games, multi-media functions and a plethora of other items called “apps.” Keep looking and avoid this particular group of phones.
Large Text
Look for a viewing screen that offers enlarged backlit text. Most phones allow you to see the name and number incoming calls as well as calls you make. When you enter a telephone number on the key pad, the numbers print across the view screen. Large text fonts make tracking your calls easier.
Volume Control
Choose a phone that has adjustable volume control. Ask your phone representative to show you how the volume control works. Select a cell phone that lets you make volume adjustments during a conversation.
User Friendly
Look for a phone that sets on a charging stand or pad; this eliminates having to plug charger wires into your handset. Many seniors have arthritis and have difficulty connecting a phone charger to the telephone. Some phones allow you the ability to pre-program voice-activated numbers into the phone’s memory – a wonderful feature for those with wrist, hand, or digital joint problems.
Cell Phone Plans
Decide how often you use your phone; this depends entirely on your lifestyle and only you can provide the answer. Design a phone plan around your needs. The phone tech will help you in selecting a suitable plan. For a person who uses the phone infrequently – a prepaid phone plan may do the trick; these plans have no penalty if a user decides to “opt” out.