A Review of the Jitterbug Cell Phone for Seniors

The Jitterbug was designed with seniors in mind. It features large keys, a loud speaker, and operator assistance. Here are some things seniors like about the Jitterbug:

* Large Size - It is closer to the size of the usual land line phone. This makes it more comfortable to hold than current cell phones.

* Enormous Number Pad - It is useful to seniors with poor motor control and poor eyesight. Each key is clearly labeled with visible white text on a black button. The text is large and easy to read.

* Big Soft Ear Cushion - When the phone is open, the rubber provides a cushioned surface wrapped around the speaker to place against your head. It helps to block out background noise.

* Bright Screen with Large Text - The contrast is permanently set to high.

* Very Loud Speakerphone - It is absolutely deafening.

* 24 Hour Live Operator Support - They can make calls for you and also add names & numbers to your Jitterbug.

* The phone number of the phone is engraved in a large font right below the screen

* The phone has a dial tone - most other cell phones do not.

* You can add names and numbers to your Jitterbug online.

* The customer service and online ordering are excellent.

The Jitterbug has no camera/video, no texting, no internet, no fancy ringtones, just the basics. This cell phone has all the features a senior would need to keep them connected to their friends, family, and doctors.

For those who need less buttons, there is also the "OneTouch" version. The OneTouch phone has 3 buttons: one for the operator, one for 911, and one you can customize to call the numbers you choose. When you buy the phone, you can have it pre-programmed with up to 15 stored numbers in your phone book. You can add more numbers in many ways: You can do it yourself on the actual phone, you can call the operator and have him/her do it, or you can send a letter or fax to Jitterbug and they will do it for you.

The cell phone service for the Jitterbug is provided through Great Call. Great Call is a new company that uses the Sprint network. Their plans are great for seniors who need a low-volume calling plan. The plans start at $10 per month. The plan is national meaning you can call from any U.S. state and never pay roaming fees. There are also no fees for long distance calling in the U.S. The plans are all pay as you go and require no contract (thus no early termination fees). You can pay monthly or yearly and can add minutes to the plans at any time. There is a one time set up fee of $35 for all phone plans. (Government fees and taxes not included.)

The Jitterbug includes an operator service, which makes the One Touch phone great for the visually impaired. The operator can:

* Make calls for you

* Provide directory assistance

* Add contact numbers to your cell phone

Every time you call the operator for assistance, 5 minutes is deducted from your minute allowance. The operators are very helpful, and they will promptly connect you to the party you want to speak with.

Senior cell phones can give peace of mind to people concerned for their parents or grandparents to be able to make a phone call from wherever they might me. They can also help older people participate in the wireless culture we are a part of. A cell phone keeps seniors connected to their family and friends.

For more information, visit Jitterbug today!