With 14.5% of the country’s population consisting of people above the age of 65, there are bound to be lots of senior moments! The senior population is now 46.2 million strong and they have a visible presence today.

The cellphone revolution has taken many of them by surprise. Although this population is large enough to demand features that are designed exclusively for them, they lag behind in use of cellphones, social media and mobile devices.

Jitterbug phones and plans fall into this category. They have several models that are produced keeping their physical and mental capabilities in mind. These include larger screens, better visibility and text sizes, features like torch and magnifying glass for use in low light situations, emergency-buttons, attractive calling, texting, data plans, and better grip and handling facilities.

What seniors want from phones and plans like Jitterbug
Studies show that seniors are more cautious and less inclined to adopt new technologies and devices. Seniors are way behind the general population in adoption of technology. Statistics show that 41% don’t use the Internet, while 53% don’t feel the need to have Internet connectivity at home, and 23% cannot or will not use cell phones! The reasons for such a discrepancy are as follows:

• Fear of new environments
• College graduates and those with higher education are more inclined to embrace new technologies
• Lack of confidence in their own mental and physical abilities
• Lack of information about new devices
• Devices seem more like toys rather than functional tools
• Older habits of thrift and caution
• Caregivers are reluctant to give them “expensive” gadgets
• Resistance to learn new methods
• Sales representatives are not trained to explain or educate seniors on smartphone usage
• Apps are confusing, and there are no traditional manuals for learning how to use them
• Economic constraints and fixed incomes prevent seniors from adopting upgrades and new technologies
• Health and disability challenges
• Skepticism about benefits of new technologies
• They prefer devices that are in keeping with their interests

The senior population is not a homogeneous group. It has many different categories and subsets that are based on health status, age, affluence, intelligence, mental and physical capabilities, etc. Geriatric specialists have found that even if seniors do adopt new technologies, this tends to taper off as they age further. The 75-79 age group finds it difficult to learn and retain information. They prefer functional, simple, and less-complicated devices.

Jitterbug phones and plans
Keeping these aspects in mind, companies like GreatCall have dedicated a line of products and services targeted to address the needs, budget, and preferences of seniors. Jitterbug phones are available in a range of models including flip-phones and smartphones, along with attractive plans. They have a range of features that are created for those who need products that fit in with their reduced reaction time, lower vision, hearing, speech, brain function, muscular coordination, etc.

Jitterbug phones have large and easy-to-read numbers and bigger buttons, and the plans offered are quite affordable. This makes dialing easier for seniors, and they will find it easier to stay in touch with friends and family. The high-power audio system makes communication louder and more clear. There are simple Yes/No menu buttons to make navigation more simple, and all the models are hearing aid compatible.

The Jitterbug phone works on the GreatCall network, they include added features like a 24×7 emergency-button, and dedicated lines that connect you to a trained customer-service operator. You get a daily reminder to take your medication and a daily check in call to see if all’s well. The plans offered with Jitterbug phones are affordable and based on a pay-by-use basis, with attractive rates for calls, texting, and data. There are convenient learning tools and educational sessions for those who want them. There is no contract or cancellation charge.

Choosing products and services like Jitterbug phones and plans gives seniors a sense of security and connectivity, the ability to communicate and stay in touch, the joy of using technology and being in sync with the rest of the world.