Cell phones for my parents?

My parents are getting ready to buy their first cell phones. Any suggestions? As you can imagine, they're hoping for phones that are very easy to use and handle.

They even claim they don't need a 2 megapixel camera or a built-in MP3 player.

I heard about the Jitterbug but it seems tied to its own, very expensive plan.

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asked on Jun 24, 2008

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comments and reviews

I think my parents have the LG LX5400.
(verizon)

They didn't need all the "frills" either. They just wanted a phone. I think they're pretty happy with it.

You said it wasn't important but, it has bluetooth, camera and speakerphone.

#1 - posted on Jun 24, 2008 (7:52 pm)

Go with the Jitterbug. It works like a normal phone, has big buttons and no extraneous features.

http://www.jitterbug.com/

#2 - posted on Jun 25, 2008 (11:18 am)

Thx Lesley... say more... have you used it? What about the billing plan?

I saw this site...

http://jitterbugcellphonescamsseniors.blogspot.com/2007/12/jitterbug-cell-phone-scams-seniors.html

#3 (reply to #2) - posted on Jun 25, 2008 (8:12 pm)

I haven't used it, but as a phone (not talking about the service) - I think it has the features that non-technical seniors really want and need.

I think all cell phone services get complaints that they bilk their customers, so I am not sure how to weigh the comments on that blog. I think AT&T rips me off blind, but that seems like par for the course for cell phone carriers.

Here's a review from Consumer Reports:
Highs
Geared toward people who need a cell phone that's easy to use, the Jitterbug Dial's large, simple buttons are easy to see and master. The earpiece is very comfortable, as well. Most notable is the support from Great Call, the service provider. They don't charge extra for directory assistance, and they'll also remotely update your phone's address book if you call in, fax, or mail them a list of your contacts. Phone number is printed on the phone. It even has a dial tone to simulate the conventional-phone experience. Very good voice quality when talking, good when listening--on a par with other CDMA phones. Adequate 3 hours of talk time. Very good display readability and excellent keypad readability under most lighting conditions, even bright light. Has analog backup for more reliable connections in rural areas, and standard voice-activated dialing.

Lows
Lacks many standard capabilities and features found on other phones such as voice memo, headset jack, and wireless data capability, though meant to be a simple no-frills phone. Thicker than most. Earpiece volume control not easily accessible while on a call. Lacks single-key, last-number redial.

Bottom Line
An excellent choice for people who want a simple phone with a high level of service support.

#4 (reply to #3) - posted on Jun 26, 2008 (8:35 am)

If your parents are concerned about the monthly cost and will only use the phone occasionally, Virgin Mobile is a good deal (or it least it was when I compared plans for my mom a couple of years ago).

I think it's 20c per minute, no monthly minimum or contract.

I don't know if they have any phone with rotary dials, though.

#5 - posted on Jun 26, 2008 (9:01 am)

Here's why I got a jitterbug for my parents. Because they have NO plans to use the phone - it's for emergencies. So given that they didn't need any minutes - and they did not plan to practice using - and they're seriously "old dogs." The other thing that was nice about the jitterbug purchase was that I could put all the phone numbers in the phone - over the phone during my order - so when they arrived at my parent's doorstep, they called me and said "hey is this you?!?" It works. And it does for them.

#6 - posted on Jun 29, 2008 (8:32 am)

very cool, Laurel... didn't know about the pre-programmed numbers, that's a great idea.

My parents too will probably barely use the thing, so it sounds like a good choice.

Thx!

#7 (reply to #6) - posted on Jun 29, 2008 (12:20 pm)

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